OCALA, FL (352today.com) – In less than three years since its opening in late 2021, Ocala’s World Equestrian Center (WEC) has made a global name for itself as a premier destination for elite equestrian sports. Now, WEC is entering a new arena – youth soccer.

On Monday, WEC announced the launch of Sports at WEC, a new sports organization based at the sprawling multipurpose facility located 1750 NW 80th Ave.

Sports at WEC plans to eventually offer a variety of diverse sports training programs for the community and could include flag football, indoor volleyball, and lacrosse.

The Sports at WEC program is kicking off in a big way in just a few weeks by hosting several youth soccer camps this summer.

The organization has hired Wyatt Stephens as its inaugural Director of Sports. The Marion County native is a former National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I athlete and played semi-pro soccer.

“This expansion is not just about adding new sports; it’s about laying the foundation for building and nurturing high-quality athletes and individuals,” said Stephens in a news release. “Our commitment to the World Equestrian Center core values of quality, class and distinction in sportsmanship and personal development is stronger than ever.”

Kicking off with youth soccer summer camps

Starting next month, Sports at WEC will offer the Academy 54 recreational youth soccer camp. It’s an opportunity for participants to improve their skills and condition in an environment that places an emphasis on fun. The indoor soccer camp is open to children ages five through 14 of all skill levels.

WEC’s Exposition Center Two will be outfitted with premium artificial turf for the camps.

The camps will be divided into two one-week sessions:

  • June 17-21 – ages 5-9
  • June 24-28 – ages 9-14

The hours for both weeks will be 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cost is $135 per athlete. There are additional fees for extended sessions and boxed lunches.

Click here to register.

Academy 54’s Namesake

Academy 54 – the name of the youth soccer camp – gets its inspiration from the equestrian center’s mascot, U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Reckless. The Korean War hero horse received the rank of sergeant in 1954 for braving enemy fire to transport supplies to the front lines. is offering an option for those athletes who would like to extend their training until 5 p.m., for an additional price. Space is limited, with a maximum capacity of 50 athletes for each weekly session.