Wheelchair-bound Snap-on franchisee Steve Fell believes quite simply that if you put your mind to achieve something, you can accomplish it. And he’s living this belief.
An avid sportsman from a young age Fell will this September participate in Invictus Games, an international sporting event that brings together those who have been injured while serving their country.
While working as a mechanic in the Royal New Zealand Mechanical and Electrical Engineers (RNZEME) he suffered injuries that over time confined him to a wheelchair.
Facing up to a new reality Fell moved to Australia, and invested in the mobile tool retailer Snap-on, setting himself up in his own business – and today he’s notched up 17 years as a franchisee with the brand.
Snap-on has been along for the ride with Fell throughout his journey, to ensure he has the support that he needs, which has included a customised mobile store to suit his requirements, through to the company’s direct support of his Invictus Games campaign in Toronto.
“We’re extremely proud of Steve. From his positive outlook on life, to his work and fitness ethics, Steve has proven disability should be no barrier to a career. Snap-on Tools Australia and New Zealand will be cheering him on at the InvictusGames and we wish him the best of luck,” says Snap-on national sales manager, Paul Lynch.
As a true sports all-rounder, Steve will compete in the Toronto event for New Zealand in wheelchair tennis, basketball, indoor rowing and swimming.
“I’m training a few hours of tennis and basketball a week but my secret training weapon is the hills I live amongst. They are a tough training course. Resistance training with rubber bands and swimming compliment the regime, plus the occasional trip back to NZ to train with other team mates,” says Fell.
“The support from Snap-on has been amazing and I’m very fortunate they have been so accommodating over my 17 years of successful business.
“I don’t feel I have any limitations whatsoever in my career or sport and as they say, if there is a will, there is a way. With support of family, friends and Snap-on, I can enjoy work and play and I look forward to the Invictus Games experience,” he says.