At The Panther Vanguard, our mission isn’t just to gather drillers — it’s to build Arizona’s first statewide drill organization. Our roadmap outlines the phased approach we’re taking to go from scattered individuals to a competitive, recognized team on the national stage.

Phase 1: Build the Community

Timeline: Months 1–6
Goal: Lay the foundation for a unified Arizona drill network.

We’re starting by building connections and visibility across the state. Drillers from all backgrounds — JROTC, ROTC, civilian, and veterans — are welcomed into a space where passion for precision, performance, and camaraderie comes first.

What We’re Doing:

  • Hosting monthly “Drill & Chill” open practices and socials across AZ
  • Launching our Discord, Instagram, and website to stay connected
  • Connecting with JROTC instructors, ROTC cadets, and drill alumni
  • Networking at local drill meets to build awareness and momentum
  • Creating a Vanguard four-person demo team to perform at showcases and schools

Phase 2: Launch Street Competitions

Timeline: Months 6–12
Goal: Turn practice into purpose — give drillers a stage to shine.

We believe the best way to grow is by putting drillers on display. Phase 2 is about launching local, freestyle-style street drill competitions designed to be accessible, competitive, and exciting for all.

What We’re Doing:

  • Piloting our first open-style street drill event (low-barrier entry, max performance)
  • Introducing Solo, Duo, and Four-Man divisions
  • Creating a custom judging rubric based on showmanship, difficulty, and creativity
  • Offering prize pool money, patches, and social media spotlight for winners
  • Launching a street champ series with crowd/judge-voted awards and prize pools (possibly merch)
  • Promoting competition content online to boost visibility and inspire others

Phase 2 Outcome:
Prepare for the recruitment of elite members into Arizona’s first post-high school competitive drill team.

Phase 3: Build the State Team & Compete Nationally

Timeline: Year 2 and Beyond
Goal: Form Arizona’s premier independent drill team and compete at the highest levels.

The ultimate goal of The Panther Vanguard is to create a state-level exhibition team that travels, competes, and represents Arizona at prestigious national events like the World Drill Championship and the National High School Drill Team Championships (NHSDTC).

What We’re Doing:

  • Hosting open tryouts across Arizona to build a dedicated state team
  • Training with high discipline: weekly rehearsals, choreo sessions, and PT
  • Forming regional drill units (Tucson, Flagstaff, etc.) to support local engagement
  • Launching workshops and mentorship programs for rising high school drillers
  • Partnering with sponsors to cover uniforms, travel, and entry fees
  • Creating summer camps and leadership clinics for community outreach

Phase 3 Outcome:
A recognized Arizona drill team, shaped by passion, precision, and pride.

Long-Term Vision

Our goal is more than just competition. It’s to leave behind a lasting infrastructure: a place where Arizona’s drillers can train, lead, and inspire — for years to come.

The Panther Vanguard is here to unite the next generation of drillers.
And we’re just getting started.