Sports build better Airman

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Luther Mitchell Jr.
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  How many multisport athletes do you know?

Staff Sgt. Michael Dicicco, 56th Security Forces Squadron trainer, is one such athlete. Throughout his career he has represented his squadron in multiple sports and encourages his Airmen to do the same.

"I tell my Airmen to get out there and get involved," Dicicco said. "There is no point to not be involved in sports. If your squadron has it and gives you the chance to do it, do it."

Dicicco plays most major sports on base to include basketball, football, softball and volleyball. The 56th SFS recently won the base intramural football championship and intramural softball championship, both games in which Dicicco participated.

Dicicco's love of sports has rubbed off on the Airmen he works with and has increased pride within his unit.

"It helps me get out there with my Airmen and it shows them they can get involved and not just stay in the dorm," Dicicco said. "It also gives me a chance to be out there representing my squadron."

Playing sports also builds camaraderie and resiliency among Airmen.

"It gives Airmen a chance to be part of a team," Dicicco said. "It makes them feel like they're part of a family as opposed to feeling alone. Everyone can do something."

The Air Force provides opportunities for Airmen to continue their love of athletics through sports programs, which include up to 21 different activities.

"The military offers you a lot of things," Dicicco said. "You have people who are great athletes but couldn't make it to college, but they can come in the Air Force and still play. We have all-Air Force teams and you get paid to do that."

Dicicco conducts orientation training for new Airmen and has gotten many new Airmen involved in squadron athletics and continues to encourage Airmen to get involved.