Each year a select number of Fourth Class Cadets are chosen to become members of the Black Knights. Cadets interested in trying out must undergo a rigorous selection process. The process begins in late November with an informational meeting and concludes in March when the new team members are selected to be a part of the Black Knights. They spend the next three years training and honing their skills to prepare for national competitions and parachute demonstrations.
For those interested in trying out, the first step is becoming a cadet. Contact your local area liaison for USMA or visit http://admissions.usma.edu for more information.
Notes for Current or Incoming Fourth Class Cadets
HOW do you ensure you'll be on the team?- Start early!
- Keep your APFT score above 300
- Stay ahead on academics and keep a 3.0
- Maintain military proficiency and company responsibility
- Come to the meeting, which occurs in November
- Be patient
- Stay motivated!!!
- Start talking to your future teammates about what you should expect to see
What happens at the initial tryout meeting?
- First, you will receive a brief overview of the team and what to expect.
- Next, you will receive very specific instruction for a packet to complete and turn in to the team by a designated time in January.
- Included in the instructions is a requirement for written recommendations.
Once packets are in, all candidates will be set up for an interview
THIS WILL BE THE BIGGEST DETERMINING FACTOR- The team wants to know what you are like.
- Will you help out the team?
- The most qualified plebes will be selected.
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The possibilities from there are endless. Not only will you become a member of the best team at West Point, but you will also become a licensed skydiver. You will be among cadets who are dedicated to the sport of parachuting, represent the academy across the nation, and train with the best professionals and athletes the sport has to offer.
Why would you want to do anything else?
