United States Air Force Academy Cadets Schmidt and Campbell make impact at USA Wrestling

USA Wrestling continues to strengthen its long-standing partnership with the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA), fostering collaboration between coaches, wrestlers, and cadets. Executive Director Rich Bender highlighted the organization’s commitment to supporting cadets by providing mentorship and a welcoming environment during their Academy experience. This partnership reflects USA Wrestling’s deep appreciation for the armed forces services and programs such as the World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), which supports elite athletes in their Olympic pursuits.

In recent years, USA Wrestling and USAFA have expanded their collaboration by offering internships to graduating cadets. These internships allow cadets, particularly those majoring in management, to contribute to local nonprofits as part of their Senior Capstone Consulting course. Through this program, cadets have tackled challenges like marketing strategies, research projects, and operational improvements for nonprofit organizations.

USA Wrestling is thrilled to welcome two senior cadets from USAFA—Carter Schmidt and Damon Campbell—as interns. Both are management majors and lifelong wrestlers who bring leadership and organizational expertise to their roles. They will work with the Development Team on several key initiatives:

• Launching a monthly donor program.
• Addressing fundraising needs for Masters and Veterans programs.
• Establishing the new online auction platform, set to debut before the 2025 World Championships.

Schmidt wrestled at Shawano Community High School in Wisconsin, where he earned the Heart of the Hawk Award for his exceptional work ethic. His dedication to wrestling continues to inspire his contributions at the national level.

Campbell competed at North Hall High School in Georgia, where he became a 3A Georgia State Champion and led his team to three state titles as captain. His high-level wrestling experience fuels his passion for giving back to the sport.

Both Schmidt and Campbell credit wrestling with teaching them valuable life lessons and are committed to ensuring future generations benefit from similar opportunities.

The USA Wrestling Monthly Champions Program is designed to secure recurring donations that support athlete development, coaching, travel, and competition expenses.

This initiative offers individuals an opportunity to give back to a sport that has shaped countless lives. By becoming a Monthly Champion, donors can help USA Wrestling continue producing world-class athletes while fostering leadership, resilience, and determination in future generations. Interested supporters can visit donate.usawrestling.org to contribute today.