Past Spirit Banner Recipients

Each year at the National High School Drill Team Championships, Sports Network International selects one school that truly embodies the hard work, resilience, competitive fire, and unwavering commitment to JROTC and drill that define the Nationals. For the school year culminating at the 2025 Championships, the determined and the dynamic cadets of Mansfield High School in Mansfield, Texas were chosen. Although relatively new to the upper echelon of the drill world, Mansfield has wasted no time making its presence known. Their rise began several years ago at the Army Drill Championships, when score sheets revealed they were suddenly competing toe-to-toe with the best teams in the nation. Spectators and competitors alike found themselves asking, "Who is Mansfield High School?" as the team marched up the awards stairs again and again. Today, that question has been replaced by a groan familiar to top-level drill meets: "Ugh… Mansfield High School is here!"—a testament to the respect they now command.

For Mansfield, nothing comes easily. Every success is earned through relentless effort, sacrifice, and a refusal to cut corners. Their cadets set a high standard not only on the drill pad but in every aspect of their lives. Respectful, humble, helpful, and fun, the Armed Storming Tigers honor drill in all they do—and, more importantly, they consistently develop exceptional young adults.

A common misconception is that the Spirit Banner is a consolation prize. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, the award is selected before the competition even begins. It recognizes a program's conduct, character, and representation of their school and service—not competition scores. Mansfield excels in all these areas. Speaking with their instructors only reinforces this truth. When asked about the rewards of teaching in the program, JROTC Instructor SFC Daniel Kinnel shared, "What an honor and a blessing to be able to change lives and see cadets become better citizens."

Sports Network International is proud to present the 2025 Spirit Award to such an outstanding group of cadets, parents, and instructors.

Cibola High School has been a force in drill for decades, building a legacy of discipline and excellence. Under the former leadership of Gunny Flores and now guided by MSgt Pedro Chamorro, the program continues to shine across New Mexico and beyond. Their teams consistently earn top placements locally, but their true strength is the character and professionalism they demonstrate on and off the drill floor.

MSgt Chamorro often says, "Wins like these are wins for the whole community," a reflection of his belief that drill is a pathway to life-long excellence, not just competitive success. Like many JROTC programs in recent years, Cibola has faced adversity—but they confronted it with honesty, resilience, and unity. After losing a beloved teammate, the cadets chose to honor his memory openly, supporting one another and growing stronger together.

At the Marine Corps JROTC Drill Championships, they proudly displayed a banner for their fallen cadet, with his mother in attendance. Competing with the spirit of "Jason is with us," they found motivation in honoring his legacy instead of letting grief derail them.

This remarkable resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to their community make Cibola High School a truly deserving and long-overdue recipient of the 2024 Spirit Banner Award.

Each year at the NHSDTC, SNI selects one school that embodies resilience, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the spirit of JROTC. For 2023, that honor went to the pace-setting AFJROTC unit at Bob Jones High School in Madison, Alabama. Their record of achievement speaks for itself. Beyond earning the AFJROTC Distinguished Unit Award with Merit, the cadets of Bob Jones compete—and excel—in Drill, Archery, Marksmanship, Physical Fitness, Orienteering, and CyberPatriot across more than two dozen national and regional events. Whether in the classroom, serving their community, or performing on the drill field, this program consistently elevates itself from good to truly great.

Bob Jones also faced significant challenges this year, yet refused to let obstacles diminish the opportunities their cadets deserved. Their determination to "see the hill, take the hill" made our selection unmistakably clear. Their approach reflects what outstanding programs do: confront problems, overcome them, and walk away stronger and wiser.

Like every JROTC unit in recent years, they have weathered adversity—but Bob Jones HS has shown how powerful leadership, teamwork, and purpose can be when nothing is allowed to stand in the way.

It is an honor to recognize the incredible cadets and instructors of Bob Jones High School as our 2023 Spirit Banner Award winner. Their example sets the standard for excellence and embodies the true spirit of JROTC.

Ask anyone at Sports Network International to describe Reading High School and you'll hear a range of compliments, CLASSY being at the top of the list. Their recognition wasn't earned solely through drill excellence, though they remain competitive wherever they go. Always prepared, they approach every meet, including the National High School Drill Championships, with purpose and integrity. They understand that conduct on and off the drill deck is as important as the final scores, and they represent their school and community with distinction.

Reading's cadets and instructors elevate the Nationals through their actions and attitude, serving as gracious ambassadors at every event they attend. Their instructors are the kind of leaders who genuinely ask how you're doing—and wait for the answer. They take pride in their students not just for their competitive success but for the growth and impact those students achieve beyond the drill deck. When someone from the SNI staff helps them through a challenge, it's not unusual for the team to show up at registration with flowers or a small token of thanks. That's who they are: classy, through and through.

Every JROTC program has faced adversity in recent years, but Reading's cadets seem to meet every challenge head-on. That has always been their approach: if there's a problem, they find a solution. COVID slowed them down. Travel and funding issues slowed them down. But nothing stops them for long.

They simply do not quit.

History shows that great teams generally share one defining characteristic, regardless of the sport: they have a dynamic, unyielding leader who simply will not accept mediocrity. This leader maintains lofty standards and, most importantly, transforms impediments to success into powerful motivators. In short, they WILL their teams to exceed the sum of their talents—to OVERACHIEVE, to EXCEL.

Never has this been more true than with the Army JROTC program at Leavenworth High School in Leavenworth, Kansas, and their exceptional instructor, retired 1SG Wayne Cogdill. This is precisely why they were selected to receive the Spirit Banner for the 2021 school year.

From achieving Raider superiority and drill excellence to placing many of their cadets in service academies, earning top finishes, and even winning National Championships, Leavenworth is no stranger to pushing their cadets to achieve greatness. Success may breed success, but it does not free you from hurdles and stumbling blocks. Taking on so much only magnifies the challenges—yet these cadets understand the clear expectations and consistently make it happen.

Leavenworth JROTC is known for excellence in everything they do. As those who have achieved it will tell you, "The only thing harder than getting to the top is staying there." But with 1SG Cogdill steering the ship, there is only one path forward—and they will outwork anyone to stay on it. As their coach and mentor, 1SG is well known for the phrase "Fired Up!" His relentless positivity drives both himself and his cadets into community service and all other aspects that make their program one of the finest in the nation.

Lynn English High School stood out as this year's top choice in a way few programs ever have. Challenges? They face plenty. Do those challenges slow them down? Not a chance. These Bulldogs are tenacious, resilient, and unwaveringly loyal.

This outstanding USMC JROTC program has attended the Nationals for well over a decade, always arriving fully prepared and giving maximum effort without complaint or excuse. Despite obstacles, ranging from long-distance travel to the many commitments pulling their multi-talented cadets in every direction at the end of the school year, they consistently rise to the occasion. Traveling more than 1,200 miles from a modest-sized town makes participation a formidable task, yet these remarkable cadets make it happen year after year. Through their actions and character, they elevate the Nationals and serve as exceptional ambassadors at every competition they attend.

When a Marine Corps program asks SNI for guidance from a longtime participant, SgtMaj Kenneth Oswald and his team are our first call. Competing in a region filled with outstanding JROTC programs keeps them sharp, and while they bring fierce competitive spirit, they never lose sight of the decorum and integrity expected of them. They understand they represent something larger than themselves. Lynn English High School has truly earned their one-year reign and permanent battle streamer.

Selecting the 2018 Spirit Banner winner was no simple task, but Francis Lewis High School ultimately rose to the top. One of the largest Army JROTC programs in the nation, Francis Lewis HS excels across countless academic, athletic, and community-service endeavors. With nearly 800 cadets, their instructors and students often find themselves moving in multiple directions seven days a week. The challenges they navigate are immense, requiring creativity, discipline, and an impressive ability to stretch time and space to meet the demands of such a thriving program.

Despite practicing primarily in a low-ceiling cafeteria and fielding drill teams with limited numbers, due in part to the high volume of cadets enrolled in honors and AP courses, they consistently shine at a national level. Their accomplishments reflect determination, resourcefulness, and extraordinary pride in their program. The Patriot Guard (Armed) and Patriot Pride (Unarmed) teams, led in 2018 by MSG Larry Badia and 1SG Elizabeth Simmons, continued a legacy of excellence more than a decade in the making. With a distinctive style and unmatched precision, they stood out among a field of strong contenders and became the unanimous choice for the Spirit Banner.

From humble beginnings as a little-known local program, Airport High School has grown steadily into one of the premier military drill and ceremony programs in the nation. Having attended the Nationals for more than a decade, they have been the Army state champions since 2011 and continue to rise in both talent and reputation. Winning has become a proud tradition for the Golden Talon, Mighty Eagles, and Eagle Guard Drill Teams. A major force behind this rise is CSM (Ret.) Harry Ferguson, whose leadership, deep expertise, and willingness to learn from those around him have propelled the program to new heights. As he often reminds his cadets, "If you want to be a champion, you've got to practice until you can't get it wrong." That commitment is evident when watching the team perform—but watching them off the drill floor makes their true impact even clearer. Larger lessons, character, and professionalism guide everything they do. Airport's cadets are exceptional ambassadors for the Army and for JROTC as a whole. Focused and driven, they contribute meaningfully to their school and community through numerous activities, all while maintaining the drill team as their guiding point of pride.

Here's to you, Airport—long may you reign!

The 2016 Spirit Award recipient, John H. Reagan High School, was a unique and deeply deserving choice. Though they had attended the Nationals for years and had been considered many times, the circumstances of their 2015–2016 season made this a unanimous agreement. Under the leadership of 1SG Michael Anderson, the Rough Riders have embodied excellence for many years. They have consistently supported neighboring programs, promoting the value of competitive drill and sharing how a trip to the Nationals can strengthen a unit long after the season ends. After 1SG Anderson faced significant personal medical challenges several years ago, the program rebounded with remarkable determination, ultimately capturing their first National Championship in 2015 within the Mixed Division of the Masters Level competition.

But 2016 tested the program in ways they had never experienced. A major flood left most of their JROTC spaces severely damaged, with standing water lingering for weeks and causing tens of thousands of dollars in destruction. Their facilities were disrupted for nearly the entire school year, and it became a very real possibility that the team would be unable to return to defend their national title.NONETHELESS, the Rough Riders refused to give in. Through candid conversations with school leadership, SNI, and the cadets themselves, a shared resolve emerged: they would not allow adversity to define their season. They pushed forward, attended the Nationals, and competed with honor—demonstrating that the true value of competition lies not in trophies, but in the grit and growth gained through the struggle to succeed.

These cadets remain among the most dedicated and hardworking in JROTC, representing one of the finest programs in Texas and across the nation. SNI was proud to recognize them on the Masters Level Awards stage as the NHSDTC Spirit Award winner—Houston's finest at their very best.

For years, the Lady Chargers had set the national standard in Unarmed drill, earning widespread respect. But in 2015, the Armed Chargers stepped forward as well, proving at both the Army National Championships and in Daytona that North Miami Beach had become a truly well-rounded powerhouse. Major Michael Roundtree, the dynamic and dedicated Senior Army Instructor, has long been a beloved presence at the Nationals. He was personally called forward to receive the award on behalf of his program, a reflection of the admiration he and his cadets have earned. His teams arrive prepared, composed, and ready to compete, win or lose. They consistently serve as gracious and enthusiastic ambassadors for the Nationals.

The program is rooted in a community that faces real and recurring challenges, yet year after year they find ways to rise above every obstacle. Their dedication ensures that the young men and women of North Miami Beach receive a rich, meaningful, and transformative JROTC experience. SNI has been honored to welcome this exceptional program to the Nationals for over 15 years. We could not imagine a more deserving recipient of the NHSDTC Spirit Award.

The 2014 Spirit Award selection of West Creek High School had been building for several years. After a strong nomination in 2013, the juggernauts from the Volunteer State carried too much momentum, and too much excellence, to be denied in 2014. What set them apart? It begins with a gung-ho program committed to every facet of JROTC excellence. Their drill team, after years of rising success at the Brigade level, has begun to make a true national name for itself. Their Raider team grows stronger each year and, through it all, their instructors consistently instill life lessons both inside and outside the competitive arena,lessons taught not only through instruction, but through the positive leadership and personal example they model every day. West Creek's preparation is meticulous, and their cadets are actively involved in nearly every detail of each trip and event. This hands-on approach reinforces the core purpose of JROTC: developing better citizens. Their culture is one of inclusion and empowerment. Every cadet learns that with effort, sacrifice, and hard work, they will receive a fair chance to succeed—regardless of limitations or obstacles. No barrier, real or perceived, can slow down these determined young leaders. The entire program embodies excellence in everything they do and serves as a shining example of what Sports Network International strives to promote through its events. SNI is honored to have this outstanding program carry the banner as the NHSDTC Spirit Award winner for the year.

The selection of Hubbard High School for the 2013 Spirit Award was not based on overcoming adversity alone, though that year brought extraordinary challenges for every Army program. When USACC was forced to withdraw promised travel funding less than a month before the Nationals, units across the country were thrust into crisis. Even in that difficult climate, Hubbard distinguished itself in ways that made their selection both clear and compelling.

Widely regarded as the finest JROTC program in Chicago and one of the top programs in the entire state, Hubbard excels for many reasons. But two qualities in particular set them apart. First, they use drill as a powerful tool for transformation. Their program keeps many at-risk cadets on track not only to graduate, but to do so with strong grades, critical life skills, and meaningful extracurricular achievements. Second, they are exceptional ambassadors for drill and for the Nationals. They consistently advocate for the value of competition, and few teams have done more to spread awareness of the benefits of the NHSDTC experience.

LTC John Wargo, the program's longtime Senior Army Instructor, has been a passionate supporter of drill and of the Nationals for more than a decade. Under his leadership, the program continues to flourish, and judges have taken note of the steady rise in the team's overall strength and talent. On and off the drill floor, Hubbard exemplifies professionalism, sportsmanship, and dedication. LTC Wargo has also been a trusted source of insight and feedback throughout many years of partnership with SNI.

While every team faces adversity on the road to excellence, the 2012 Blue Guard and Blue Angels from Douglas MacArthur High School gave that challenge new meaning. Just weeks before many of the biggest spring drill meets, a report spread across the internet alleging improper conduct by cadets and instructors at this long-respected hub of drill excellence. The news stunned the community. Stepping into this high-pressure moment was "the new guy," SFC Carlos Rochin—new to the school, though not to drill. Coming out of retirement to guide the program, he provided steady leadership and calm direction. Even so, no one knew how the cadets would respond on the drill floor after such a dramatic shake-up.

They responded with extraordinary focus and resolve.

Motivated to honor their former instructors and uphold the program's legacy, the cadets worked tirelessly—much of their preparation driven by their own discipline and teamwork. When competition season arrived, they not only qualified out of Texas for the Army Nationals but went on to win both the Armed and Unarmed Championships at that prestigious event. Weeks later, they capped their season by placing among the top teams in the world against the finest drill units from every service.

Their intensity, loyalty, determination, and refusal to quit were nothing short of inspiring. The Blue Guard and Blue Angels showed what true commitment looks like in the face of uncertainty. SNI proudly salutes the entire Douglas MacArthur High School program as the 2012 NHSDTC Spirit Award winner.

Sometimes, you don't realize the value of something until it's gone. For years, the talented cadets of Ronald Reagan High School dominated the drill floor, earning countless trophies and accolades. When their leader was promoted to Director of Army Instruction for the district, a new instructor stepped in—and the team faced a challenging year. Their dominance waned, and the program was shaken.

Enter LTC Paul Loveless, returning to the school he had helped put on the national drill map. Through tireless effort, patience, and guidance, he revitalized the Rattler Guard (Armed) and Diamondback (Unarmed) drill teams. Obstacles that might have derailed a lesser program only strengthened their resolve. At Reagan, the saying "a team plays as a coach coaches" is a truism. LTC Loveless provides positive leadership, fairness, and unwavering support to cadets who work hard and compete with integrity.

Under his mentorship, drill has become far more than a competitive pursuit—it's a vehicle for growth, discipline, and success that extends well beyond the practice floor. Thousands of past cadets have carried the lessons they learned under his guidance into every facet of life, achieving excellence in all walks of life. SNI is proud to be associated with this exceptional program and honors the lasting impact of Ronald Reagan High School's drill legacy.

From humble beginnings and with a relatively small student body, the Maroon & Gold Drill Team from Grant High School has made a national name for itself over the past five years. Their standout moment came with the Western Region Army Championships title, and the program has continued its steady climb toward excellence ever since

The drill team is only one part of this exceptional program. Grant consistently graduates cadets with GPAs higher than the overall student body and sends countless students on to college and other ambitious endeavors—all while operating with limited resources. What is most striking about this small program is the disciplined, businesslike approach they bring to everything they do. There is little fanfare, but the results speak volumes. That success is a direct reflection of the leadership of 1SG (Ret.) Jim Tadayeski. He demands respect by giving respect, setting high standards of excellence, and mentoring cadets to achieve far more than they might have imagined. His influence helps cadets reach goals few other programs of similar size could ever envision.

Grant High School brings class and professionalism to every event they attend. Supported by engaged parents who understand the lasting value of the program, the Maroon & Gold Drill Team continues to develop cadets who thrive both during high school and long afterward.

While many schools were considered for the 2009 Spirit Award, the decision was easy. James Madison High School stood out for the consistently positive way the program operates, its strong drill finishes over the past decade, the impressive success of cadets who have gone on to top colleges, and, most importantly, the exemplary mentorship provided by their instructors, both in and out of the classroom. Operating a JROTC program in the highly competitive environment of Texas is no small task. With scrutiny and expectations at every turn, programs must perform under constant pressure. James Madison rises to the challenge, excelling in multiple areas year after year. Led by SAI LTC Amador Cano and longtime drill expert MSG Xavier Sandoval, the program embodies sacrifice, commitment, and excellence. The Maverick Guard and Lady Maverick Guard earn countless trophies, but it is their conduct—on and off the drill floor—that truly sets them apart. In 2009, the Spirit Banner proudly lives at James Madison High School, honoring a program that exemplifies leadership, dedication, and the very best of JROTC.

The saying "a team plays as a coach coaches" has never been more evident than with Winter Springs High School in Florida. Since opening roughly a decade ago, this Army JROTC program has dominated Florida Army drill competitions, thanks in large part to the vision and leadership of SAI LTC John Bennett, who brought the championship experience he earned at nearby Lyman High School in the early 1990s. Like any new program, Winter Springs faced growing pains, yet no obstacle could slow their rise. Today, they are recognized as one of the nation's top programs, excelling on and off the drill floor. LTC Bennett, alongside Sgt. Victor Frasqueri, works tirelessly to guide cadets not only in drill but in all aspects of life. Their rigorous, multi-faceted program fosters well-rounded cadets who are dedicated, disciplined, and committed to excellence. The bond between this program and its community is unbreakable, reflecting the respect and admiration they have earned from school administration, the school board, and the district. Winter Springs High School exemplifies the spirit, integrity, and dedication that make a Spirit Award recipient truly deserving.

Flour Bluff High School is widely recognized as one of the finest all-around drill programs in the nation, not to mention the broader excellence they cultivate in academics, community service, and personal development. The goal of producing outstanding citizens is at the heart of every strong JROTC program, and Flour Bluff achieves it better than most. Drill serves as a tool to instill work ethic, discipline, leadership, and competitive drive, qualities embodied by the Sea Devil and Seahawk drill teams year after year.

Operating with a relatively small cadet corps from a modest population, the program consistently exceeds expectations. Their quiet, disciplined approach often surprises outsiders, who may initially underestimate the depth and breadth of the program. Under the passionate and exacting leadership of CDR Armando Solis, cadets learn to lead with humility, approachability, and dedication. Flour Bluff remains a fixture of excellence both on and off the drill deck, dominating competitions such as the Area 10 Navy Academic, Athletic, and Drill Championship year after year. Their cadets are a credit to the Nationals and the drill community at large. There is no better home for the Spirit Banner in 2007 than south Texas.

Nestled in a blue-collar town just outside New York City, Rahway High School continues to exemplify everything that is right about Junior ROTC. The program faces constant challenges, yet no obstacle ever stands in the way of excellence. With a dynamic leadership team and a clear vision, Rahway cadets approach every task with focus, discipline, and determination. Years of consistent top finishes culminated in 2008 when the Devil Pup Drill Team captured the prestigious Demilitarized Arms Division National Championship at the Nationals. In fact, SNI collaborated with the Walt Disney Company to feature the program in the movie Cadet Kelly, showcasing their trademark excellence to audiences worldwide. Locally and nationally, Rahway dominates competitions with intensity and spirit that captivates all who watch.

MCJROTC instructors SgtMaj Henry and MSgt Mintz consistently credit the cadets, but their unwavering dedication and leadership are a driving force behind the program's sustained success. Their self-effacing yet fiercely committed approach fosters cadets who grow into responsible, disciplined, and accomplished adults long after their drill days end. Rahway High School exemplifies the very best of JROTC, making them a deserving Spirit Banner recipient.

Marmion Academy exemplifies all the qualities of a truly inspirational program: dedication to excellence, determination, and humility. As a relative newcomer to the Nationals, the Flannigan Rifles have embraced the event with enthusiasm and commitment rarely seen. Their parent and booster support is legendary, reflecting a community deeply invested in the success of the cadets. Having met the cadets and instructors firsthand, it is clear there is no finer group of young cadets exemplifying the JROTC ethic. While some might assume that Marmion faces few challenges due to its resources, the reality is very different. Rigorous academic demands could derail a lesser program, yet the Flannigan Rifles manage to balance their studies while competing with distinction at the Nationals.

Their positivity, dedication, and support for the NHSDTC elevate the event for everyone. On the drill floor and in the classroom, they compete with honor, class, and integrity. Their ongoing success is a testament not only to the cadets themselves but also to their leader, SGM John Gissel. With this level of commitment and talent, a string of top finishes in the years to come would be no surprise.

The passing of a valued instructor is never easy, and the 2003 death of long-time drill legend Major John Gardiner deeply affected the Springfield High School community. A lesser program might have faltered, but Springfield's Army JROTC unit chose a different path. Despite multiple changes in leadership, this past National Champion program worked tirelessly in tribute to their fallen mentor, competing with honor and distinction at the 2004 Nationals.

Years of preparation and dedication had already brought multiple top finishes and a National Championship in 1998 in the Alternative Arms Division with their Grenadiers unit. Their high-energy exhibition routines often stopped the entire building in awe. While their level of success on the drill floor has naturally shifted over time, the program continues to serve as a beacon of excellence in Ohio. Their unwavering support of the Nationals and of all things drill reflects a commitment to leadership, discipline, and perseverance. The total team effort in the wake of loss was an inspiration to SNI staff and to everyone who knew Major John Gardiner. Springfield High School embodies the spirit, dedication, and resilience that define a true Spirit Banner recipient.

Making the trip to the Nationals is always challenging—but Bethel, Alaska, presents a level of difficulty few programs face. Major Bailey leads this small Army Honor Unit at Bethel Regional High School, a program that has earned recognition on a national and even global stage. Surrounded by high unemployment and other social challenges, the program refuses to let these obstacles define them. Having visited the campus, it's clear that the cadets give everything they have to every task. Many arrive at the practice area early and leave late, driven by a dedication to excellence that has been instilled deep within them. With limited daylight, extreme cold, and a town with just a few miles of paved roads, the Warriors drill team demonstrates results and commitment rarely seen even among more privileged programs.

Through exceptional leadership, hard work, and relentless diligence, Bethel's cadets embody what can be accomplished when determination meets opportunity. The Warriors remain a shining example of excellence, resilience, and the spirit of JROTC.

Led by the dynamic MSG Dick LeBel, Coventry High School proudly holds the distinction of being the first-ever Spirit Award recipient. Little did MSG LeBel know that his long-standing dedication to the greater New England drill community would ultimately secure him a place in the National Drill Hall of Fame. Coventry's program has consistently excelled at the Nationals and other major drill competitions, earning victories and top finishes across multiple categories and levels. As a leader in the Southern New England Drill League, a league they helped establish, the Falcons set the standard for drill excellence throughout the region.

Their success extends beyond the drill floor. Coventry is widely recognized as one of the finest overall Air Force JROTC programs in the Eastern United States, producing cadets who advance to service academies and other prestigious institutions. Parents, cadets, and instructors alike demonstrate remarkable teamwork, supporting one another and serving as outstanding ambassadors of the National High School Drill Team Championships wherever they compete. Coventry High School's enduring dedication, professionalism, and spirit make them a truly deserving Spirit Award program.