Navy SEALS, SWCCs Serve as Mentors during Hispanic Games in New York

NEW YORK (NNS) -- Members of the Navy SEAL and Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewman scout team attended the 18th Annual Hispanic Games at the Armory Indoor Track and Field Stadium in New York City, Jan. 9-11.

The U.S. Navy sponsored event had more than 7,000 athletes, parents, and spectators attending the games from high schools from across the nation.

"The Hispanic Games are a great event and tradition in competitive high school sports" said Rear Adm. Anatilio B. Cruz, deputy commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet.

SEAL and SWCC Sailors, who served as mentors, conducted a pull-up challenge for the athletes and attendees during the meet. They also outfitted some participants with body armor to test their physical abilities in combat oriented clothing.

"These young student athletes are absolutely amazing because they exhibit many of the same qualities and attributes that we in the military see in our service members. The common attribute we're seeing among all athletes are dedication, commitment to excellence, courage, tenacity, perseverance, and sacrifice," said Cruz.

This event gave participants a chance to interact with SEAL and SWCC operators and have their questions answered about the importance of fitness and conditioning in the Naval Special Warfare community.

"The games have been a great opportunity to build awareness about the SEAL and SWCC programs and to answer questions about the training for the water components of both BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL) and BCT (Basic Crewman Training)," said Capt. Duncan Smith, commanding officer, Naval Special Warfare Recruiting Directorate.

Athletes were also treated to a static display by SEAL and SWCC personnel, who demonstrated the equipment that special operators use in the field. Some of the items on display were parachutes, diving equipment and body armor.

"Any time Naval Special Warfare operators can be among athletes of this caliber it excites us about the new bar the next generation of SEAL and SWCC operators will set," said Smith. "The Navy is fortunate to be here as a sponsor and active supporter of the Hispanic Games."

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For more news from Naval Special Warfare Group 2, visit www.navy.mil/local/nswgtwo/.