Frank Del Duca, an Army sergeant and Olympic bobsledder, is making headlines as he competes in the Milan Cortina Olympics. Del Duca, who is participating in his second Olympic Games, has become a symbol of the intersection between military service and elite athletics, representing the United States with pride and determination.
The U.S. Army has played a crucial role in shaping Del Duca’s athletic career through the World Class Athlete Program (WCAP). This initiative allows soldier athletes, including active duty, reservists, and members of the National Guard, to pursue their Olympic dreams while maintaining a professional military career. Currently stationed at Lake Placid, New York, Del Duca is focused on achieving his goal of winning gold medals for the United States.
Del Duca’s journey to bobsledding began with a passion for action sports during his childhood. He participated in various athletic activities, including skateboarding and BMX, and idolized extreme sports figures. Despite not initially envisioning a military career, he found his way to the Army, which has provided him both stability and a platform for his athletic ambitions.
Reflecting on his experiences, Del Duca described his first bobsled ride as intense, as he prepared for what he thought would be a chaotic descent down the icy track. In a similar vein, he approached Army basic training with a sense of preparedness, concerned about the challenges he might face. “I thought we were gonna be doing barrel rolls down the ice,” he recalled, highlighting his commitment to thorough preparation.
This dedication has not gone unnoticed among his teammates. Del Duca’s meticulous nature and willingness to give his all have endeared him to his fellow athletes, leading to his selection as one of the flag bearers for Team USA during the opening ceremony. This honor holds special significance for Del Duca, whose family has roots in Italy, further deepening his connection to the Games.
Del Duca’s athletic prowess was evident even before he took up bobsledding. He excelled in track and field at the University of Maine, where he earned accolades in events such as the long jump and 100 meters. At a bobsled combine, he was drawn to the sport’s combination of speed, teamwork, and the thrill of racing. “I love the adrenaline component,” he said, emphasizing the exhilarating nature of the sport.
Transitioning from a push athlete to a pilot, Del Duca joined the Army around the same time. The WCAP program, established in 1997, has enabled numerous soldier athletes to compete on the world stage. As a member of this elite group, Del Duca trains rigorously, understanding that excelling in bobsledding requires both physical and mental toughness.
His coach, Army Lieutenant Colonel Chris Fogt, who has competed in three Olympic Games himself, recognizes the parallels between military training and bobsledding. “Bobsled is aggressive, it’s loud, it’s violent, there is so much necessary attention to detail and equipment,” Fogt explained. Both environments demand a high level of discipline and resilience, qualities that Del Duca embodies.
Del Duca values the lessons learned from military life, which have enhanced his skills as a bobsled pilot. He appreciates the importance of leadership, time management, and accountability, all of which contribute to his success on the track. “I want to be a pillar for people around me,” he stated, underscoring his commitment to teamwork and excellence.
The financial stability provided by the Army has also been a significant factor for Del Duca. Unlike many athletes in niche sports, soldier athletes can earn a living wage, access quality health insurance, and secure a pension, making it easier to balance their dual roles as competitors and military personnel.
As Del Duca prepares to compete in the 2-man bobsled event on Monday, he reflects on his aspirations for the Games. Having finished 13th in both events at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, he aims to improve his standing this time around. The significance of representing his country, especially as a soldier, adds an extra layer of motivation.
Del Duca’s commitment to both his military service and his sport has garnered respect from his peers and family alike. Although he initially faced skepticism from relatives about his choices, particularly from his grandfather, a veteran, his military career has bridged understanding. “When I joined the military, he understood that … and that made me really happy,” Del Duca shared.
As he looks toward the future, Del Duca is optimistic about his chances in Cortina and beyond. He and Fogt are determined to elevate U.S. bobsledding, especially with the prospect of the 2034 Olympics in Salt Lake City on the horizon. With no bobsled medal for the U.S. since 2014, Del Duca is eager to contribute to a resurgence in the sport and make his country proud.
