This Saturday (Jan. 31) the FGCU Athletics Department will be hosting the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team (WWAST) which will be making its third trip to FGCU in as many years for a series of appearances on campus headlined by an exhibition game against the FGCU Celebrity Team at Swanson Stadium at 3 p.m.
Following the game, the WWAST will be recognized as special guests at the men’s basketball game vs. Northern Kentucky in Alico Arena at 7 p.m. The FGCU Celebrity Team which will feature local media members, coaches, former players and Athletics administrators. Admission is free, the public is invited and donations are encouraged.
The event will take place as part of Military Appreciation Night at FGCU. During the course of the evening, current and former military personnel will be recognized for their service, and Bank of America will present a $1,000 scholarship to a veteran.
The WWAST is comprised of some of our nation’s bravest and most determined heroes, soldiers and veterans. These young athletic men have sustained severe injuries resulting in amputation while serving in the military/war, and through extensive rehabilitation, they have become competitive athletes again. Their armor now includes prosthetic legs, arms, extreme perseverance and positive attitudes.
“The time spent around this amazing group of young men is so impactful,” Assistant Athletics Director for Advancement Graham Diemer said. “Their message to our student-athletes regarding taking advantage of opportunities and managing attitude while handling stress and adversity is something that we feel is so important. We look forward to maintaining this relationship for the years to come.”
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The team’s mission is to raise awareness, through exhibition softball games, of the sacrifices and resiliency of the young men women that serve our country in the military. The games highlight their ability to rise above any challenge. Their goal is to show other amputees and the general public that through extensive rehabilitation and training, they are able to raise awareness and excel the sport they loved.