From February 12 to 16, the Selma High School MCJROTC program competed in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) Marksmanship Nationals in Alabama. The team placed 16th nationally, straying from 15th by one point.
The competition had multiple challenges, including the Major Cross Invitational, Best of the West, CECA Marksmanship, Major Hand, and CECA Valley championship.
One of the challenges involved a 60-shot competition in three positions. Cadets had to showcase their skills in the prone (lying down), kneeling, and off-hand (standing) positions. Students had 20 minutes to complete 20 shots at a target 10 meters away within the first two positions. In the off-hand position, cadets were allotted 25 minutes.
“The most challenging position was the off-hand position, but many matches were won in the kneeling position,” said First Sergeant Mike Romero.
During preparation, the need for emotional and physical strength was emphasized. The team focused on maintaining a strong mentality.
“They [need to] understand that most competitions are mental exercises. One must stay mentally strong to handle any distractions that might happen to alter or prevent them from reaching their full potential,” said Romero.
However, in out of state competitions, the team faces intense pressure as the representatives of Selma High.
“Every shot was a representation of the team so we had to be diligent when pulling the rifle trigger,” said junior Catherine Baez.
Baez is the program’s Company Commander (Captain). She is also a varsity member of the rifle team, which offers opportunities to compete out of state.
“I am responsible for the Company’s appearance, discipline, training, well-being, and conduct. I am [also] in charge of all activities and the climate of the cadet corps,” Baez explained.
Two weeks before the completion, the team prepared for nationals by practicing both mornings and afternoons.
“Students can attend either session, but those participating in both sessions see the best results,” said sergeant Romero.
The flexibility of team practices was a major contributor to their success. Students were open to practice, and most attended both practices. They understood the rigorous nature of the program and its requirements.
“I feel that there was improvement practicing longer than we usually do. Those extra two hours definitely worked and helped us with the little things along the way,” Baez said.
The MCJROTC program exposes cadets to material from all core subjects. These include Social Science, Math, and English, during various phases of the school year.
“They utilize the knowledge from different periods of instruction and apply it to real-life situations,” said sergeant Romero.
Cadets are also exposed to high-pressure situations that help develop their confidence, leadership, and managerial skills.
“During our community service events, selected cadets are placed in leadership roles to coordinate with the organization’s representative to help our cadets provide the best support possible,” said Romero.
Students in the program are not expected to perform at levels that exceed their capabilities.
“Most will not pursue this skill as a career, so I tell them they must have fun and not be pressured to expect performance levels they didn’t properly prepare for,” said sergeant Romero, “Many students get mad when they fail to perform but lack the discipline to put in the time and effort to reach consistent results.”
However, the challenges faced during the competition arose from unforeseen issues.
“The most challenging part of the competition was [the] sudden mishaps that occurred, such as my rifle malfunctioning on competition day,” said Baez.
Unfortunately, many of the participants were held back by similar malfunctions.
“From this competition, they were to perform above their qualification scores. Unfortunately, equipment problems caused them to miss the mark, but on the first day, had they performed as they did on the second day, they would have met or exceeded expectations.” said sergeant Romero.
Despite the misfortunes faced, the team maintained their composure and held their pride. They overcame the issues and performed well.
“Fourth-year program completer and Senior Cadet Captain Torres shot her best at this competition!” said Baez, “The team did overall a very great job and I am proud that we went.”
Ultimately, many gained valuable knowledge from the competition.
“The competition was a learning experience but our mindset didn’t really change. We had the same goal which was to win, the only difference was just the environment we were in.” Baez concluded.
Even so, the team continues to advance in effort and seeks improvement.
“There is always room for improvement. When one gets complacent, one opens the door for others to defeat you,” sergeant Romero concluded.
