About the WAPF

"The mission of the Women’s Athletic Performance Foundation is to provide an overall support for elite American female track & field athletes competing in the heptathlon. Secondarily, it is a foundational objective to connect these elite athletes with local members of the community, especially youth, in an effort to promote physical activity, leadership, and provide positive female role models to the next generation of young people".

The WAPF was established in 2012 with two primary objectives.

(1)  To provide support to elite American female track & field athletes who compete in the heptathlon.

(2)  Connect these athletes with local youth in an effort to promote physical activity, provide positive role models, and build leadership among the next generation.

       Athletes who represent the WAPF are college graduates who have competed at the highest levels of track & field. All WAPF heptathlete’s have competed at the USA National Championships, Olympic Trials, and some have represented Team USA. Historically, women who compete in the heptathlon are under supported as they aim to reach their dreams of becoming Olympians. Through a wide network of support, the WAPF is striving to offer this support in exchange for having them serve as role models in our community. At the WAPF, we do not simply recruit the greatest athletes in the United States; we recruit individuals who are excited to give back to our community. All proceeds generated from WAPF events will go to supporting these athletes as they prepare to represent our country. The WAPF is a 501C3 non-profit organization.

About the Director

Josh Priester has been a collegiate track coach at the NCAA Division I & Division III levels. Most recently Priester served as the Associate Director of Track & Field at UCSB. Prior to moving to Santa Barbara, Priester was an Assistant Professor of Health and Human Performance and track coach at his Alma Mater, George Fox University. Priester has been a clinician and lecturer at numerous camps and clinics, and has extensive experience in working with youth.