Seminole County To Host Inaugural All American Challenge And Training Camp

Firefighters from across the country will converge on Seminole County, Florida April 1-4 for the inaugural All American Challenge and Training Camp, a preseason event in the TFT® Firefighter Challenge Championship Series. 

Deemed by ESPN as “the toughest two minutes in sports,” the Firefighter Challenge tests the strength, endurance and technical skills required in real-life emergency response.  

Challenge competitor and SCFD firefighter Siena Barkan 

The course simulates real-world firefighting demands, including: 

• climbing a five-story tower 

• hose hoists  

• forcible entry  

• hose drags 

• rescuing a 165-pound mannequin 

Firefighters compete in individual, tandem and relay divisions, segmented by age, gender and performance levels including developmental, competitive and pro.  

Presented by Seminole County and hosted by Seminole State College, the event will take place at the College’s Sanford/Lake Mary campus. The public is invited to watch the free, family-friendly competition events April 3-4. 

“These incredible firefighter athletes train year-round to not only perform at their best in this competition but to also be at their best when responding to 911 emergencies,” said Russell A. Jackson, chief executive officer of the First Responder Institute. “This is their opportunity to have fun and earn individual and fire department bragging rights.” 

“Seminole County is proud to welcome firefighters from across the country for an event that celebrates service, strength and public safety,” said Chairman Andria Herr of the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners. “Hosting the All American Challenge alongside Seminole State College reflects our shared commitment to workforce development, community partnerships and honoring the men and women who answer the call every day. We invite residents and visitors alike to attend, support these public servants, and experience a truly inspiring event right here in Seminole County.”  

Seminole County Fire Department plans to field several teams, including a ‘SCFD Chiefs’ Team’ with dedicated members of the command staff. 

The Firefighter Challenge is a program of the First Responder Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting firefighter health, performance and recruitment. Competitor registration and guidelines are available on the event website. 

All American Challenge and Training Camp Event Details 

Training Camp (firefighters only): 
April 1-2 | 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Competition Events (free and open to public): 
April 3 | 8 a.m., Opening Ceremony, tandem and relay events 
April 4 | 8 a.m., Community Day, individual events 

Location: 
Seminole State College 
Sanford/Lake Mary Campus 
100 Weldon Blvd., Sanford, FL 32773 

Seminole County is a vibrant and growing county in Central Florida, located in the heart of the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford metropolitan area. Home to approximately 495,000 residents, Seminole County encompasses roughly 345 square miles and, while the third smallest by land area among Florida’s 67 counties, ranks as the fourth most densely populated. Seminole County is comprised of seven cities and is known for its strong neighborhoods, an extensive parks and trails system, and access to rivers, lakes and conservation lands. Proudly branded as Florida’s Natural Choice, Seminole County is committed to protecting its environment while delivering high-quality essential services that support a strong quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors.