Farragut Drill Team competes at Gaither
Written by Senior Naval Science Instructor (SNSI) CDR Rick Schock
The AFA Competition Drill Team was in action last Saturday, the 2nd of December at Gaither High School in Tampa, Florida.
Competing against 24 other schools in the largest NJROTC Area 07 sanctioned meet ever hosted, the BlueJackets competed with focus and energy. Invaluable experience was gained by new team members as many competed for the first time.
Led by Unarmed Basic Drill Team Commander Melissa Price and Armed Drill Team Commander Chris Northup, the teams battled their way through a competitive field with good, solid performances resulting in mid-pack finishes. Our Academic Team, most ably commanded by Evan Schlifstein, finished in 10th place. The team left Tampa hungry to hit the grinder again in February when the team will compete at the University of South Florida, closing out the competition year.
The highlight of our Saturday may have been the new gear we had the privilege and joy of putting into action. Through the generosity of Mr. Frank P. Wendt our Armed team was able to purchase new, state-of-the-art drill rifles. Melissa Price and her family made a generous gift which allowed the team to buy embroidered garment bags, uniform tool boxes, and new t-shirts, all of which were used for the first time at Gaither. The new rifles, along with the attire and accessories, enabled our team to arrive and work their way through the competition representing Farragut like true professionals.
The team wishes to send their sincere appreciation and thanks to the Price Family and Mr. Wendt for their generosity and support of our Drill Team. A special thank you is in order to Coach Aaron Prather who encouraged some members of his track and fitness teams to compete and bolster our athletic team.
Next up – USF!
