JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas -- Last month, the Air Force Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program went back home to Nellis Air Force Base to host the 2024 Air Force & Marine Corps Trials. More than 100 warrior athletes competed for a spot to represent Team Air Force during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games, happening June 21-30, at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida.
The athletes competed in track, field, wheelchair rugby, wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, rowing, powerlifting, swimming, archery and shooting. Some of them competing in multiple sports a day. There were cuts, bruises, sweat and tears, but more importantly there were new personal records, laughs, all around support, and a lot of hugs.
“For two long weeks, I practiced and competed every day in multiple events. As I competed in rowing, tears rolled down my face from pain,” said Staff Sgt. Carly James, AFW2 athlete. “I finally realized I’m much more capable than my mind allows me to be, even when I feel broken. For the first time, in a very long time, I am so proud of myself.”
Warrior athletes train all year, working out on their own and attending virtual classes with AFW2 coaches, in preparation for Air Force Trials with an ultimate goal of making the Warrior Games team. A huge thank you to the AFW2 staff, coaches, medical team, volunteers and Nellis Air Force Base for making this event possible for the warrior athletes. Below are the athletes who will be representing Team Air Force at Warrior Games 2024. Congratulations!