A unique effort called the VetsEXCEL Program has launched as an SFIA Career Transition Program that offers an opportunity for military veterans to transition their leadership skills, discipline and teamwork experience into rewarding civilian careers in the sports, running, outdoors and fitness industries. VetsEXCEL represents SFIA’s commitment to supporting the veterans who served our country as they navigate this important career change.
The four-month cohort experience features a targeted curriculum designed by industry leaders who understand both military experience and the needs of the sports industry. Selected applicants are Fellows in the program, building their network, exploring career paths and gaining the insights needed to launch successful civilian careers in sports and fitness.
What makes VetsEXCEL unique?
• Fellow-led programming model – participants will actively facilitate and lead peer discussions
• Bridging military leadership with civilian sports career pathways
• Veteran-to-veteran mentorship from sports industry professionals who have made the same transition
• Direct access to sports industry executives, including HR and talent acquisition leaders and SFIA member organizations
Fellows will gain valuable career advantages including: Monthly one-on-one meetings (virtual or in-person); career development guidance and
industry insights; guidance translating military skills to civilian opportunities; strategic professional networking introductions; honest perspectives on career paths and growth opportunities; and mentorship from veterans in the sports industry.
Simply put, VetsEXCEL is a four-month-plus career transition program designed specifically for military veterans entering the sports and fitness industry. Built on SFIA’s successful Excelerator Program model, VetsEXCEL adapts proven professional development approaches for veteran career transitions.Strong candidates are early-career veterans (within five years of separation) who demonstrate leadership potential, a genuine interest in sports, running, outdoors and fitness careers and a readiness to transition their military skills into successful civilian industry careers. The candidate has an associate degree or is working towards a bachelor’s or master’s degree within two years.
The VetsEXCEL Committee reviews applications holistically, considering military experience, career interests, leadership potential and program commitment. No prior experience in the sports industry is required. The program will help veterans explore and enter the industry regardless of background.
The program welcomes veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Space Force, Coast Guard) and all components (Active Duty, Reserves, National Guard) who have received an honorable discharge. Additional eligibility requirements include being within five years of military separation and demonstrated interest in building a sports and fitness industry career.
The VetsEXCEL Leadership Committee carefully matches Fellows with veteran mentors based on military background, industry experience, career interests and personal preferences.
Applicants should share in their application any major time commitments between November 2026 and February 2027 that could impact their program participation at various points.
All program costs covered by SFIA. All travel expenses for confirmed in-person events fully covered (airfare or mileage, lodging, ground transportation, and event hospitality).
A job is not guaranteed, but Fellows will gain valuable career advantages: Industry network, including direct connections with sports and fitness professionals and SFIA member organizations; Professional credibility with recognition as a VetsEXCEL Fellow and “vetted” candidate; Career clarity through a better understanding of sports industry sectors and functional roles that match your interests; Enhanced skills through leadership development through Fellow-led programming and peer facilitation; and Ongoing support and long-term access to mentor relationships and alums network, including the Excelerator program
Candidates (and pre-Fellow selection) can submit to sfia.org/sfia-vetsexcel-program
