Mindset. Endurance. Determination. Perseverance. These are just a few of the words that describe an athlete’s character as they train for upcoming competitions. Imagine taking that to the next level, the global level, where all eyes are upon you. That’s what the Olympic athletes are going through right now. The rest of us sit back and watch as they represent their countries, showcasing their athleticism, with the goal of walking away with the gold.
Olympic athletes aren’t the only elite competitors facing such monumental feats of strength and will, though. So are the athletes of an industry competition spanning 30-plus years – the SERVPRO Firefighter Challenge League (FCL).
Touted as “the toughest two minutes in sports” by ESPN, the Firefighter Challenge League mission is to showcase the strength and readiness of the fire service and to help inspire the next generation of firefighters – while having some fun along the way. The Firefighter Challenge League includes the TFT Firefighter Challenge Championship Series, operating underneath the umbrella of the First Responder Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
The athletes competing in these events range from cadets still in training to seasoned veterans (some retired). So instead of hearing names like Simone Biles or Noah Lyles over the loudspeaker, you will hear the names and stories of Sgt. Sue Capper and Jimmy “Pops” Johnson. No matter what the arena, Olympians and firefighters alike break through their physical and mental barriers for their respective events, not only to better themselves but also their department.
Molly Brown, a member of the Fleming Fire (Ontario) Combat team said it best: “An Olympic mindset means striving to be at the top of your game. This mindset includes determination, drive and commitment to the sport and improvement within it.”
This mindset inevitably means sacrifice too. Athletes must make sacrifices to be at their peak competitiveness. Sgt. Capper of Halton Hills (Ontario) Fire Department shares her perspective: “Sacrifice for an Olympic mindset isn’t sacrifice at all because the ‘why’ is so strong. Waking up early, restricting different foods, missing out on events – it’s easy to do because of the relentless pursuit of becoming the greatest version of themselves to reach their goal.”
Lt. Matt Coney of the St. Lucie County (Florida) Fire District reveals a crucial mindset to the competitive nature of the Firefighter Challenge League that ties directly into the Olympic competition, “… it’s rooted in the ‘bigger than me’ ideology. The fitness side of the fire service is paramount as you attain the physicality and education for the job.”
Christina Hubacek, a member of the Irving (Texas) Fire Department, agrees: “The Olympic mindset is simply being proud to be a part of something bigger than yourself and fighting with all you have, because of the love for whom you represent.”
No matter the duration of the events or competitions, the preparedness is year-round. While the Olympics last a few weeks every 4 years and the Firefighter Challenge League season goes on for 6 months every year, the athletes’ training never stops.
Damon Ortega with the Coppell (Texas) Fire Department sums up the perseverance: “It means committing to training, maintaining mental and physical health, and improving skills. This mindset embodies teamwork, mental strength and collaboration, crucial in family and professional life. An Olympic mindset leads to a more dedicated, resilient and fulfilling life, enhancing effectiveness in all roles.”
While you may not be able to make it to Paris for the Olympic Games, you do have a chance to make it out to the Firefighter Challenge League to catch the action in person. The Southeast Classic is happening Aug. 22-24 in Lexington, Kentucky; the U.S. Nationals will take place in Hoover, Alabama, Sept. 25-28; and the World Challenge is in Nashville, Tennessee, from Oct. 21-26. Check out the full schedule.
Always remember, no matter the situation or circumstance, the mental and physical components will impact your results. Staying fit in both areas will produce results in life and work that will help you on your journey to get the gold!