World Class Athlete Program

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About World Class Athlete Program

The World Class Athlete Program (WCAP) is a unique unit within the United States Army, established in 1997 to allow soldier-athletes to train and compete at the highest levels of national and international sports, including the Olympic Games. WCAP enables soldiers to maintain their military careers while pursuing excellence in athletics, representing both the U.S. Army and the nation in competitions worldwide. Over the years, WCAP athletes have earned numerous medals and accolades, significantly contributing to Team USA’s successes in events such as the Olympics, World Championships, and Pan American Games. The program reflects the Army’s commitment to physical fitness, discipline, and excellence, while also enhancing the service’s visibility and prestige on the global athletic stage.

Unit Members

Corey Stewart

U.S. Army

World Class Athlete ProgramView Profile

Photos

Boot Camp

Company C 1st Bn. 38th Inf. Regt. • U.S. Army • 1989

1980

101st airborne division • U.S. Army

U.S. Army

New uniform for wedding

82nd Airborne • U.S. Army • 2018

About World Class Athlete Program

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program (WCAP) was established in 1997 to allow top soldier-athletes to train for and compete in national and international sporting events, including the Olympics, while serving their country. • Olympic Success: Since its inception, WCAP athletes have won dozens of Olympic medals in sports such as boxing, wrestling, track and field, and modern pentathlon. • Dual Commitment: WCAP service members balance rigorous military duties with elite sports training, demonstrating discipline and commitment both to their country and their sport. • First Female Medalist: Staff Sgt. Dawn Halfaker, a member of WCAP, competed in wheelchair basketball at the 2004 Paralympic Games, helping Team USA secure a bronze medal. • Trailblazers: WCAP wrestler Sgt. Spenser Mango competed in two Olympic Games (2008 and 2012), paving the way for future soldier-athletes in Greco-Roman wrestling. • International Recognition: WCAP athletes frequently represent the United States at Pan American Games, World Championships, and other prestigious events, enhancing the Army’s global reputation. • Inspirational Story: Sgt. 1st Class Elizabeth Marks, a combat medic and WCAP swimmer, won gold at the 2016 Paralympics and famously gave her medal to the Papworth Hospital staff who saved her life in 2014. • All-Army Sports: WCAP works closely with the All-Army Sports program, which selects top soldier-athletes from across the Army to compete in Armed Forces competitions. • Comprehensive Support: WCAP provides athletes with world-class coaching, sports medicine, nutrition, and psychological support to help them reach peak performance. • Legacy of Service: Many former WCAP athletes have gone on to distinguished military careers, blending athletic excellence with leadership in the U.S. Army.