Air Force Athlete Program Preps for Winter Olympics

DAF World Class Athlete Program develops elite competitors while strengthening military readiness

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As the world prepares for the upcoming Winter Olympic Games, the Department of the Air Force is spotlighting the DAF Air Force World Class Athlete Program, a unique initiative that develops elite competitors while strengthening military readiness, recruiting and leadership development. Two Air Force service members assigned to DAF WCAP are set to compete on the international stage at this year's Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy, representing both Team USA and the Department of the Air Force.

Why it matters

The DAF WCAP enhances recruiting by attracting elite athletes to train full time in pursuit of Olympic competition, aligning with the military's focus on mission-ready, fitness-focused Airmen and Guardians. The program also supports long-term retention, as most current WCAP athletes plan to continue serving beyond their athletic careers.

The details

WCAP athletes serve as ambassadors for the Department of the Air Force, held to the same standards of professionalism as all Airmen and Guardians. The skills required to succeed at the elite level, including resilience, precision and dedication, translate directly to operational effectiveness. WCAP's location at Peterson Space Force Base allows the program to benefit from close proximity to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, national governing bodies and the U.S. Air Force Academy.

  • The 2026 Winter Olympics will take place in Cortina, Italy.

The players

Dale Filsell

Department of the Air Force WCAP and Shooting Program Manager.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The DAF WCAP enhances recruiting by attracting elite athletes to train full time in pursuit of Olympic competition. This strategy aligns with the Secretary of War's focus on ensuring the military has mission-ready, fitness-focused Airmen and Guardians.”

— Dale Filsell, Department of the Air Force WCAP and Shooting Program Manager (Mirage News)

“Upon completion of WCAP, athletes return to the operational Air Force or Space Force, where that dedication continues within their respective specialties.”

— Dale Filsell, Department of the Air Force WCAP and Shooting Program Manager (Mirage News)

What’s next

The program anticipates future opportunities to showcase Air Force and Space Force athletes on home soil, with the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2032 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah. For this year, the goal for the 2026 Winter Olympics is clear: earning the program's first-ever Olympic medal.

The takeaway

The DAF World Class Athlete Program demonstrates how the military can develop elite competitors while strengthening recruiting, retention and operational readiness. By attracting top talent and fostering skills that translate to military service, the program is positioning the Air Force and Space Force for long-term success on and off the field of play.