July 24, 2025—Following two online rounds of rigorous competition against teams from all over the world, Kennesaw Mountain High School's JROTC Academic Team took 3rd place in the national Championship event in Washington, DC.

The Mustang Academic Team emerged as a top finisher among 659 Navy JROTC academic teams worldwide. Their achievement places them among the nation's elite eight Navy JROTC Academic Bowl teams, earning them their all-expense-paid trip to the Championship event in DC.

"This is the best finish we've ever had for our Academic Team," said Coach and Gunnery Sergeant Matthew McClean. "Placing this high at a national-level event marks a historic moment for our program and sets a new standard for excellence."

The JROTC Leadership & Academic Bowl (JLAB) is a nationally recognized competition tailored exclusively for JROTC students. Through participation, cadets imbibe the values of citizenship, engage in academic rivalry, and explore college opportunities. This platform provides a remarkable avenue for JROTC cadets to demonstrate their leadership and academic prowess.

The team prepared through months of dedicated study sessions, practice quizzes, and team strategy meetings. JLAB consists of levels 1 and 2, which begin in the fall and progress throughout the school year. The National Championship takes place in the nation's capital in June. 

"Even during the summer, these dedicated team members stayed disciplined and focused, often meeting virtually or in person to sharpen their skills. Their effort, teamwork, and resilience truly embody what our JROTC program stands for," GySgt McLean said with admiration.

This historic accomplishment validates a year of hard work and shows what's possible when a team stays motivated and supports one another.

"It’s incredibly rewarding to see their commitment pay off. I’m beyond proud of this team, not just for their impressive finish, but for their dedication during the school year," GySgt McLean concluded about his students.