The Greenville High School Orienteering team is set to make history once again as they gear up for the Sixteenth Annual NJROTC National Orienteering Championship (NNOC). Following their victory in the inaugural event last October, the cadets of the GHS NJROTC team have earned the opportunity to compete against the nation's top teams.
The NNOC is scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 16, and Sunday, March 17, at Lake York Kings Mountain State Park in Blacksburg, SC. This marks a significant achievement for the young orienteering team, which has enjoyed remarkable success throughout the year. Selected from NJROTC units in Area Nineteen, GHS NJROTC will represent the area at the national level, a first for the unit. While the team has previously participated in State Championships for drill and marksmanship, this will be their debut at the National Championship.
Prior to the main event, the team will engage in a warm-up competition on February 9 at San Benito HS in San Benito, TX. Following this preparatory event, the focus will shift to the National Championship, where the cadets aim to showcase their skills on a broader stage.
AZ1 Flater, the coach of the orienteering team, brings valuable experience to the table, having attended two National Championships with his former school in California. Expressing his joy for the cadets, especially the seniors, Flater stated, "I'm confident they will represent Area 19, GHS, and GISD with pride and professionalism."
The team's dedication and success have garnered well-deserved congratulations, with the school expressing pride in their achievement. The Greenville Independent School District (GISD) commends the orienteering team for their accomplishments and wishes them continued success in the upcoming championship.
What is orienteering?
Orienteering, originating as a military training in 19th-century Sweden, has evolved into a sport accessible to everyone. The term "orienteering" was first used in 1886 at a Swedish Military Academy, signifying the crossing of unknown land with the aid of a map and compass. The sport involves navigating a course marked with orange and white flags and punches, requiring participants to make strategic decisions to find points and reach the finish in the shortest time possible. Often referred to as the "thinking sport," orienteering combines map reading, decision-making, and physical fitness, providing a unique and challenging experience for participants.
