SM North ROTC traveled to Lubbock, Texas for the Area 9 championship on Feb. 18-21. The team was there for a total of three days.

The first day was spent enjoying their one day off by swimming in the hotel pool, and bonding with their fellow teammates. The second day consisted of getting everything prepared for competition, such as shining shoes, “Irish picking”, practicing their armed and unarmed drills, and memorizing chain of commands. The Chain of Commands included general orders, cadet ranks, and uniform regulations.

On the third day, the team started the day at 5 a.m. by doing their hair, shaving, and clipping their nails. Every minor detail is observed by judges in order to boost or deduct the team’s overall score. Cadets were judged on sharpness in movement, knowledge on current global issues, and their physical appearances, such as correct measurements in the uniforms, hair, and a clean groom. There was also a fitness test that included push-ups, sit-ups which were both in cadence and a 100 and 200-yard run.

The team left the competition winning first in every category and placing first for the tenth consecutive year. The team came back feeling accomplished and ready to train even harder.

“When I’m performing I feel a big rush of excitement and determination,” said senior Diana Gomez. “We train like champions so our wins always feel deserving.”