November 12, 2025—The Army JROTC Raider Challenge is recognized as "the nation’s premier JROTC adventure competition," designed to push cadets through high-impact physical and tactical challenges that build grit, leadership, and camaraderie.
Fresh off an impressive third-place overall finish at the All-Service National Raider Competition held at Gerald Lawhorn Scouting Base in Molena, Georgia, the Osborne High School Army JROTC Raiders entered the Georgia State Raider Competition with one goal in mind: defend their state titles.
Hosted at Georgia Military College in Milledgeville, the competition challenged cadets with a series of grueling physical events, including:
• 5K Team Run
• Raider Fitness Challenge
• Cross Country Rescue Race
• Rope Bridge
• Raider Item Relay
With grit, determination, and teamwork, both the Male and Female Raider Teams from Osborne emerged as State Champions, continuing their legacy of excellence.
"Our cadets have poured their hearts into preparing for this Raider season, and their hard work, determination, and grit have led them to this moment," said their proud coach, Master Sgt. Joseph Collins. "They are a true inspiration—a constant reminder of why I love what I do. It is an honor and a privilege to serve as their coach."
"What this team and state win mean to me is pure grit, strength, and determination. Throughout this entire season, I've seen people overcome the toughest challenges they never thought they could face. I’m proud of what we accomplished and hope to see bigger accomplishments in the future," said Carlos Lopez, Male Team Captain.
Female Team Captain Andrea Samaniego agreed.
"This season was unforgettable; both our male and female teams gave everything they had, and to see all that hard work pay off with both teams winning state is incredible," she said. "As a female captain, it makes me proud that we’re showing that strength, leadership, and teamwork don't have genders. We made history together!"
The Raider events emphasize teamwork and cooperation. Unlike other competitions where a few standout athletes can carry a team, Raider events require teams to work together and improve together, not only as individuals. This requires a much greater commitment than just a few practices a week during the season; it means dedicating a significant amount of time to training together, well before the season begins in August.
"Winning state made all the hard work worth it—every summer workout, every spring conditioning session, every moment we pushed through together," said Male Team Captain Juan Hernandez. "This team means everything to me. I’d do anything for them."
"This isn’t the end; it’s just the beginning," said Carlos Lopez in conclusion about his Osborne Raider journey.
