From humble beginnings, the Army Fight Team boasts a captivating story woven from dedication, passion, and a desire to empower underdogs. The journey begins with its founder, Wesley Lawrence, a seasoned martial arts practitioner with over 40 years of experience.

Wesley's journey began with Tae Kwon Do, igniting a fire that would fuel his path. Joining the United States Army, he continued to push boundaries, competing in Olympic Tae Kwon Do. However, an injury during airborne operations training led him to a pivotal encounter with Jason Tankson-Bourelly, introducing him to the world of point fighting martial arts.

This encounter sparked a deeper passion, leading Wesley to Texas and a fateful meeting with Hakim Walker. Walker's unique style and energy captivated Wesley, forging a friendship that became a critical turning point. As Wesley transitioned from Tae Kwon Do to Karate, Walker's guidance proved invaluable.

His dedication paid off, culminating in his first Grand Championship victory at the AKA Warrior Cup in Chicago. This triumph, against an international opponent from Guatemala, marked the birth of Wesley's infamous spinning hook kick, a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.

Balancing his military career with his passion, Wesley leveraged his experience and connections to secure individual Army sponsorship for his competitive endeavors. This support fueled his ascent, leading him to a fateful tournament in Missouri. There, he met Richard Ozborne, an encounter that would shape the future of martial arts for Wesley.

Ozborne extended an invitation to join Team Heartland, marking Wesley's first official team affiliation. Following five overseas deployments and his retirement from the Army, Wesley's entrepreneurial spirit ignited. He reconnected with sponsors and embarked on a new mission: to build his own platform for aspiring martial artists.

This journey led him to Columbia, South Carolina, where he began teaching karate at a local church, laying the foundation for what would become the Carolina Cooperheads. With his extensive experience, unwavering commitment to the Army, and the invaluable support of Richard Ozborne, Wesley founded Team Heartland South in 2021, with sponsorship from the Army.

His vision was clear: to identify and empower talented athletes who might otherwise go unnoticed. Character, not just championships, became the cornerstone of his team. This dedication is evident today, as all three members of the original team remain active and inspire the next generation.

From a passion project to a professional endeavor, the Army Fight Team is now poised for a major leap. In 2024, they will debut with a full roster of 21 athletes, ready to compete in point sparring and form divisions. This is not just about winning; it's about providing a platform for underdogs to showcase their talent and achieve their dreams.

The story of the Army Fight Team is one of resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to empowering others. It's a testament to the power of martial arts to build character, discipline, and a sense of community. And as they prepare to take center stage in 2024, their journey is sure to inspire and motivate martial artists across the nation.