A team of 16 cadets from Atascocita High School earned national recognition after placing ninth at the 2026 Marine Corps JROTC National Drill Championship, competing against top programs from across the country.
The championship, held April 11 in Norman Park, Georgia, brought together cadet units nationwide for a day of competition and camaraderie. The event featured four team competitions: inspection, color guard, regulation drill and exhibition drill.
The appearance marked Atascocita’s first time competing at the Marine Corps JROTC National Drill Championship, making the top-9 finish especially notable for the program.
“It was our first time going to nationals, and it wasn’t just a competition where everyone had to be against each other,” Cadet 2nd Lt. Hope Perez said. “It was an eye-opening experience. We got to see how others do things, and it was a good way to connect and make friends.”
The cadets spent months preparing for the event, often practicing during holidays and school breaks while balancing multiple extracurricular activities.
“It was an honor to attend. We are now one of the top nine schools in the nation,” Cadet Sgt. Romeo Aguilar said. “JROTC gave me a purpose, and I really enjoyed representing my school. I’m thankful for my instructor, drill team and everyone who helped us get here.”
Atascocita High School Marine Corps JROTC instructor Master Gunnery Sgt. Fleming said the team’s performance reflects both its dedication and potential.
“We were up against programs that have been there eight or 10 years in a row, but this group has always been strong,” Fleming said. “I hope they learned that with time management and determination, they can achieve their goals, even if the journey isn’t always easy.”
The Marine Corps JROTC program focuses on developing leadership, citizenship and personal responsibility among high school students. Atascocita’s top-9 finish highlights the strength of its program and the dedication of its cadets.
The following cadets represented Atascocita High School at the national championship:
C/Maj Secily Young
C/Capt Quan Nguyen
C/1stLt Aiden McDaniel
C/1stLt Koalani Turla
C/2ndLt Hope Perez
C/SgtMaj James Lamb
C/Sgt Romeo Aguilar
C/Sgt Rylee Engolio
C/Sgt Alexa Granados
C/Sgt Zacharias Lindow
C/Sgt Priscilla Ramos
C/Cpl Moses Bejarano
C/Cpl Adrianna Espana
C/Cpl Roselyn Gonzalez
C/Cpl Liam Pierce
C/LCpl Matthew Le