In a historic move set to reshape the landscape of American track and field, USA Track & Field (USATF) announced that it will be bringing the U.S. Paralympics Track & Field program under its wing starting January 1, 2025. This groundbreaking partnership aims to unite all track and field athletes, regardless of ability, under one comprehensive support system and development pipeline.
One Team, One Dream
The decision comes on the heels of a stellar performance by both Olympic and Paralympic track and field teams at the 2024 Paris Games. American track and field athletes brought home an impressive haul of 34 medals, including 14 gold, while their Paralympic counterparts added another 38 medals to the tally, with 10 of them being gold. This success has only strengthened USATF’s resolve to create a unified, world-class program that caters to the needs of all its athletes.
“With the USOPC and USATF joining forces for our Paralympics Track & Field National Team and development programs, we are setting the stage for unprecedented opportunity and development,” said Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC).
Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges
The integration of the Paralympic program into USATF marks a significant step towards inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports. By bringing Para athletes under the same umbrella as their Olympic counterparts, USATF aims to provide them with access to the same high-quality resources, support, and training facilities that have propelled American track and field to the forefront of the global stage.
“This is an incredible moment for our sport,” emphasized Max Siegel, CEO of USATF. “USATF has a strong commitment to providing inclusive and comprehensive support, and by uniting our Olympic and Paralympic programs, we are setting the standard for what an integrated sports program can achieve.”
The Power of Unity
The benefits of this merger extend far beyond the realm of logistics and resources. By fostering a culture of unity and collaboration, USATF hopes to create an environment where all athletes, regardless of their abilities, can learn from each other, push their limits, and strive for excellence together.
Hunter Woodhall, a Paralympic gold medalist in the T62 400 meters at the Paris Games, sees immense potential in this partnership. “This change means so much to me and to the entire Para track and field community,” he shared. “It’s incredibly exciting to see the investment, dedication, and future we’re building together.”
A Trailblazing Path
USATF’s decision to integrate the Paralympic program comes at a time when more and more national governing bodies are recognizing the importance of inclusivity in sports. In May 2023, U.S. Ski & Snowboard made a similar move, bringing the U.S. Para Alpine Ski Team and U.S. Para Snowboard Team onto its roster. This trend underscores the growing commitment to the “One Team” mindset and the belief that every athlete, no matter their background or ability, deserves an equal chance to pursue their dreams.
The Road Ahead
As USATF embarks on this new chapter, the organization acknowledges that there will be challenges to overcome and lessons to be learned along the way. However, with a shared vision and unwavering dedication to its athletes, USATF is confident that this integration will not only elevate the performance of American track and field but also inspire a new generation of athletes to pursue their passions without limits.
The unification of Olympic and Paralympic track and field under the USATF banner is more than just an organizational shift; it is a powerful statement about the values and aspirations of American sports. By embracing inclusivity, fostering collaboration, and investing in the success of all its athletes, USATF is setting the stage for a future where every athlete, regardless of ability, can reach their full potential and shine on the world stage.
As we look ahead to the next chapter of American track and field, one thing is certain: with the combined strength of its Olympic and Paralympic programs, USATF is poised to lead the way in creating a more inclusive, supportive, and successful sporting landscape for all.
