On February 28th, 2026, our Raiders and Drill team competed at Hoke County High School. Our Drill team competed in Unarmed and Armed Platoon, Unarmed and Armed Squad, Armed Individual, and Color Guard. They earned second place in Squad Armed under the command of CDT 2LT Campos, CDT SSG Gooding secured 3rd place in Armed Individual, and CDT PVT Simpson earned 3rd place in the Board competition. Our Raiders team competed under several events such as 5k run, obstacle courses, rope bridges, litter carries and knot tying. Our Raiders team placed 2nd overall under the leadership of CDT CSM Serrano. Our teams proudly represented our program in this competition. We are so excited for the amazing opportunities that await our SLHS JROTC.
What do you do while on the Drill and Raiders competition teams?
On the Raiders team, we work together to complete physically demanding events like obstacle courses, rope bridges, litter carries, and team runs. Each member plays such an important part, and we work together to finish tasks quickly and push ourselves to perform to the best of our ability. On the Drill team, we practice precise marching routines, inspections, and synchronized movements. We focus on executing commands perfectly, staying in step, and presenting a sharp, disciplined performance as a team.
What types of events are included in a Raiders competition?
Raiders competitions usually include physically challenging events such as obstacle courses, rope bridge building, litter carries, team 5k runs, tire flips, knot tying races, and other endurance challenges. These events test strength, speed, teamwork, and the ability to complete tasks under pressure.
What types of events are included in a Drill competition?
JROTC drill competitions include different judged events that show discipline, teamwork, and precision. Some of the main events are Armed and Unarmed Regulation drill, Armed and Unarmed Exhibition (squad or platoon), Color Guard, and Inspection. These events focus on precise marching, following commands correctly, and working together as a team.
How do you prepare for a competition?
Preparation includes practicing regularly, working on physical conditioning, and reviewing the steps or commands needed for each event. Our team trains together, practices our routines, and makes sure we understand our roles so we can perform well during the competition.
What does teamwork look like in a Raiders or Drill competition?
Teamwork means communicating, trusting each other, and working together to achieve a common goal. In Raiders events, teammates help each other complete difficult physical tasks and push one another to remain strong throughout difficult challenges . In Drill competitions, teamwork is shown through synchronized movements, listening carefully to commands, and making sure everyone performs their part so the team moves as one unit.
What is the hardest part of either competition?
The hardest part of these competitions is the amount of effort and focus it takes. In Raiders competitions, the events can be really tiring, especially things like obstacle courses, running the 5k and team carries, so you have to push yourself even when you’re exhausted. In Drill competitions, the hardest part is staying perfectly in sync with your team and maintaining perfect timing because even a small mistake can affect the whole performance.
What has been the program’s proudest achievement or moment?
One of our program’s proudest moments was at the Hoke County competition, where our Drill and Raiders teams brought home trophies and represented our program well. Overall, we placed 2nd when the Drill and Raiders scores were combined, which was a big accomplishment for our team. It showed how much our hard work, practice, and dedication paid off. We’re also proud of how everyone stayed focused, disciplined, and committed throughout the competition.
Why should students consider joining JROTC?
Students should consider joining JROTC because it helps build leadership, discipline, confidence, and teamwork skills. It also provides opportunities to participate in activities like Drill, Raiders, community service, and other competitions. JROTC can help students stay active, develop responsibility, and prepare for future goals whether they plan to join the military or even pursue other great careers.