HARTFORD, Conn. –
HARTFORD, Conn. – For the first time ever, the Connecticut National Guard will host multiple Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps programs representing high schools across the state at the Connecticut Army National Guard JROTC Physical Fitness Competition, April 9, at Camp Nett at Niantic.
Approximately 60 cadets representing New Britain High School, Crosby High School (Waterbury) and James T. Hillhouse High School (New Haven) are slated to attend the event.
The competition, hosted by the Connecticut Army National Guard’s recruiting and retention battalion, will test JROTC cadets in individual and team events aimed at building teamwork and camaraderie, while providing those considering military service after high school an inside look at some of the equipment, facilities and physically challenging events service members are exposed to.
The four JROTC Programs slated to attend will compete for the Commander’s Cup, presented by Connecticut National Guard leadership to the winning team.
“These cadets are no strangers to competition, as many of them are active in athletics and participate on drill and ceremony teams at their respective high schools,” said Lt. Col. Alan Gilman, Commander of the Connecticut National Guard’s 6 th Recruiting and Retention Battalion. “We hope they use this opportunity to learn more about each other’s strengths and weaknesses in order to improve as students and leaders while having fun in a military style competition.”
Cadets will compete in a variety of physical challenges, to include traditional military fitness testing events like sit-ups. Team events will include an obstacle course relay, a timed rock wall climb, and a military vehicle push.
Media are welcome to this event beginning at 9:00 a.m. Coordination can be made through the Connecticut National Guard Public Affairs Office.
POINTS OF CONTACT:
Connecticut Military Department/Connecticut National Guard: Maj. Mike Petersen, Public Affairs Officer, 860-524-4857 or michael.t.petersen.mil@mail.mil.
MEDIA: Camp Nett at Niantic, formerly Camp Niantic, is found via GPS at 38 Smith Street, Niantic, CT 06357. Please have media credentials and driver’s license ready for security check at the front gate.