Our Mission
Create A Drill Community
The Panther Vanguard is dedicated to creating a thriving community within Arizona, where drillers from Unarmed, Armed, and Color Guard can come together and socialize. Our aim is to provide a space where the passion for drilling can continue even after JROTC/ROTC, and to help individuals find a group to drill with.
Foster Passion
At The Panther Vanguard, we are a team dedicated to going above and beyond to help others embrace their passion for drill, just as we have with ours. We believe that passionate individuals represent the 20% of people who do 80% of the work. These hard-working individuals are the ones who achieve their dreams. Join us in fostering passion and empowering individuals to realize their full potential.
Arizona’s Drill Teams
The Panther Vanguard is on a mission to revolutionize Arizona’s drill team scene! Often times, JROTC is the only level of competing at drill meets, with a lack of competitive drill teams in our state universities. But we refuse to accept this status quo. Our commitment is unwavering as we gather passionate individuals to create and drive competitive drill teams to national competitions. Join us in our quest to elevate Arizona’s standing in the spotlight of drill team competitions across the nation!
Why? What is this for?
Our Vision
Arizona currently lacks a dedicated drill community, leaving drillers from high schools and beyond without a space to connect, form teams, and grow through socializing and mutual support. Witnessing the success of River City Drill and the diverse participation in their competitions has sparked the vision of establishing a similar platform here in Arizona. Imagine the potential for learning from seasoned drillers and building valuable connections right here in our state. The Panther Vanguard aspires to start the unification of Arizona’s drill and exhibition enthusiasts, fostering a vibrant community across the region.
The Panther Vanguard is not just a dream, it’s a commitment to shaping the future of drill and exhibition in Arizona. Our vision encompasses the formation of competitive drill teams at both high school and post-high school levels across the diverse regions of our state. These teams will aim to compete at prestigious events such as the World Drill Championship and the National High School Drill Team Championships, showcasing the talent and dedication of Arizona’s drill enthusiasts on a national stage.
We firmly believe that true leadership stems from passion and dedication. Our organization is dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of drill and exhibition enthusiasts who are driven by their love for the art, not by obligation. We are committed to empowering passionate individuals to become leaders who will bring about remarkable and impactful changes within their communities. The Panther Vanguard is not just about creating a platform; it’s about igniting a passion that will lead to extraordinary achievements across Arizona.
About Us, The Team
We are The Five that established The Panther Vanguard. Based out of Maryvale High School in Phoenix, Arizona. Our experiences in drill have shaped and fueled our passion for drill.

Kennett Ho
Founder / Lieutenant Colonel of the Panther Vanguard
(PV/LTC)
Dedicated and Passionate to the Art of Drill and Exhibition, while striving to be the best of the best, and bringing those around up to success. Former Battalion Commander of Maryvale High School JROTC in Phoenix, AZ (2023-24)

Xavier Cohen
Founder / Sergeant Major of the Panther Vanguard
(PV/SGM)
A dedicated and disciplined leader with years of experience from the Maryvale High School JROTC program. Serving as a commander of the 4-man Unarmed Exhibition Drill Team at Maryvale HS, honing my skills in precision, teamwork, and drill.

Elias Contreras
Founder / 1st Sergeant of the Panther Vanguard
(PV/1SG)

Shelsy Castenada
Appointed Battalion Commander of the 1st Panther Vanguard Battalion
(BnCDR/LTC)
A dedicated and responsible leader, committed to continuous improvement and achieving success. One of three current commanders of the Unarmed Drill Team at Maryvale High School in Phoenix, AZ (2024-25)

Mia Gordillo
Appointed Executive Officer of the 1st Panther Vanguard Battalion
(BnXO/Maj)
A dedicated and enthusiastic individual, committed to showcasing, learning, and teaching the art of drill. A Member of Maryvale High School’s Armed Drill Team.

