THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO FIELD CONDITIONS…
The FGCU Department of Athletics will host the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team (WWAST) for the fourth time in as many years as the organization will make a series of appearances on the Southwest Florida campus, headlined by an exhibition game against the FGCU Celebrity Team at Swanson Stadium on Sunday, Jan. 17 at 2 p.m.
Prior to the exhibition, the WWAST will be recognized as special guests for the men’s basketball game vs. USC Upstate on Saturday, Jan. 16 at 7 p.m. 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, and, through extensive rehabilitation, they have become competitive athletes again. Their armor now includes prosthetic legs, arms, extreme perseverance and positive attitudes.
“This is the fourth year we’ve put on the WWAST event, and the impact of this amazing group of young men never fails to impress me,” said FGCU Assistant Athletics Director for Advancement Graham Diemer. “We’ve quickly come to realize how important the lessons these men teach our student-athletes about taking advantage of opportunities and managing attitude while handling stress can be, and we look forward to maintaining and building our relationship throughout the years.”
The WWAST’s mission is to raise awareness, through exhibition softball games, of the sacrifices and resiliency of the young men and women that serve our country. Their goal is to show other amputees and the general public that through extensive rehab and training, they are able to raise awareness and excel at the sport they loved. The games highlight their ability to rise above any challenge.
“It’s very satisfying to know that FGCU and Southwest Florida are strong supporters of the military and honors active duty soldiers and veterans,” said WWAST General Manager and US Army Veteran David Van Sleet. “Working on this venue with FGCU, I’ve seen firsthand the strong pride that this University and area of Florida displays for military personnel and wounded warriors, and it’s very gratifying to see the recognition for those that have served our country.”
The public is encouraged to attend as admission is free and donations are encouraged.
The FGCU Celebrity Team, coached by Director of Athletics Ken Kavanagh and Senior Associate AD for External Affairs Emeritus Butch Perchan, will feature a blend of FGCU coaches, former student-athletes, athletics administrators and local media members.