Germantown XClusive Drill Team and Drum Corp
by Tara Payne, Co-Director
I am currently the director of the Germantown X Clusive Drill Team with Contina Lundy. Six years ago I talked to Contina about the possibility of starting a drill team at First Church because I saw a need for a community-based program in the Germantown area.
I was a member of a drill team in Germantown years ago and even practiced here at the church on a few occasions during the winter months. Back then there were over ten teams within a five mile radius of the church.
Six years ago when the idea for our church’s drill team came to light there were only one or two teams left in the area.
I am very proud of the team and all of our volunteers and never thought we would grow to be so successful in such a short amount of time. The team has won many trophies, titles and has been requested to perform for many events.
It is rewarding to see former members who have grown up in our program return and give back to the team by bringing new members, coaching, helping fix equipment, and just enjoying themselves at their home away from home.
A very rewarding time for me was when Annette Rashod (a drill team parent) stood up at the church's budget meeting and spoke about the importance of having our drill team and the impact it has had on her life and the lives of her children. I will never forget the day I met Annette.
The things that took place that evening were not as either Annette or I had anticipated. Despite all the events of that evening we found each other and Annette and her children have been active participants on the team for three years.
The church provides a safe place for children and young adults to come and learn many skills: cooperation, leadership, patience, peace, responsibility, etc.
The drill team has brought many new young faces to the church, some who don't have a church home to call their own. We have had a drill team member baptized, confirmed, and join our church! Some of the drill team members also participate in youth group, Sunday School, and bell choir.
Did you know?
- There are 30 active members and 10 staff volunteers on the drill team.
- We won the Pennsylvania State Championship in November.
- Regina Carter joined First Church in December.
- DeShaye Carter was baptized at First Church in January.
To lean more about the Germantown XClusive Drill Team and Drum Corp, or to get involved, please contact Tara Payne or Contina Lundy.