Ocala, FL — May 6, 2024 — World Equestrian Center – Ocala is thrilled to announce the launch of Sports at WEC, a new sports organization based out of World Equestrian Center – Ocala’s premier multipurpose facility.
Sports at WEC will offer a variety of diverse sports training programs to the greater Ocala area, starting with the Academy 54 recreational youth soccer camp beginning the week of June 17. The indoor soccer camp is geared toward children ages 5 through 14 of all skill levels.
While the soccer camp is the first undertaking for Sports at WEC, the organization has wider ambition. Their mission is to provide an exciting opportunity for kids to engage in skill development, conditioning and most importantly, fun—no matter the sport. Future programs may involve partnerships to expand into additional sports, like flag football, indoor volleyball and lacrosse, and will include high-level development programming and technical training for a diverse range of athletes.
“While World Equestrian Center is already known for its world-class facilities and top-tier equestrian events, Sports at WEC will begin an expansion that embraces a variety of sports,” says Wyatt Stephens, the new Director of Sports at World Equestrian Center – Ocala.
“This expansion is not just about adding new sports; it’s about laying the foundation for building and nurturing high-quality athletes and individuals. Our commitment to the World Equestrian Center core values of quality, class and distinction in sportsmanship and personal development is stronger than ever.”
Stephens will guide Sports at WEC as the organization develops new programs to serve the Ocala area using his collegiate success as a Division I athlete with the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes and the Cincinnati Bearcats, followed by a semi-pro soccer career.
Sports at WEC’s Academy 54 Recreational Youth Soccer Camp
The first Sports at WEC program, designed for youth soccer players of all ability levels, will take place at World Equestrian Center – Ocala’s state-of-the-art, climate-controlled Exposition Center Two featuring premium artificial turf. With a focus on fostering individual technical ability and enhancing on-field performance, the camp offers a dynamic blend of structured training sessions and competitive games.
The camp will be divided into two, one-week sessions, with week one from June 17 to June 21 tailored for ages 5 to 9, while week two June 24 to June 28 caters to ages 9 to 14. Both camps will run from 8:30am to 2pm, with an option for extended hours through 5pm at an additional price. Limited spots are available, with a maximum of 50 participants each week.
“We’re excited to introduce Sports at WEC and kickoff with the Academy 54 recreational youth soccer camp,” explains Stephens. “Our goal is to provide a positive and enriching experience for young athletes, where they can not only improve their soccer skills but also develop a lifelong love for the sport.”
Campers attending either of the two sessions in June will receive a free program t-shirt, specialized training from experienced coaches and plenty of time on the turf. Hospitality options for boxed lunches will be available for purchase.
Registration is now open, with early sign-up encouraged to secure a spot in this exciting program. To learn more about Sports at WEC or register for the Academy 54 recreational youth soccer camp, visit sportsatwec.com or follow the Sports at WEC Facebook page.