Estes Dining Hall was filled with energy this past Monday as Fork Union Military Academy hosted its annual Club Rush, giving cadets the opportunity to explore extracurricular activities and sign up for clubs for the 2026–2027 academic year.

The event gave cadets a chance to meet club sponsors, learn more about the opportunities available on campus, and find ways to get involved beyond the classroom and athletic fields. From academic competition and service opportunities to music, engineering, woodworking, leadership, and strength training, this year’s club offerings provide cadets with a wide range of ways to discover new interests and build community.

Clubs Available This Year

• Chess — Sponsored by Dr. Welch; meets Wednesdays from 1715–1815 in the Library.
• Choir — Sponsored by Mrs. Welch and Dr. Welch; meets Wednesdays from 1615–1715 in the Library.
• Debate — Sponsored by Christina Williams; meets Wednesdays from 1615–1715 in Moretz 210.
• Engineering Club — Sponsored by MAJ Kenny; meets Fridays from 1400–1500 in Wicker 4.
• FUMA Ambassadors — Sponsored by Gary Leydig; meets Mondays at 10:30 in Hatcher Hall Admissions.
• Interact Club — Sponsored by CSM Garcia and Ms. Delman; meets Mondays from 1830–1930 in the Library front room.
• International Mentors — Sponsored by Mr. Jose Rodriguez; meets Wednesdays from 1615–1715 in the Hatcher Hall lobby/waiting room.
• Powerlifting Club — Sponsored by Austin Mikell; meets Fridays from 1400–1500 in the Weight Room.
• Quiz Bowl — Sponsored by Dr. Welch; meets Mondays from 1830–1930 in Hatcher Hall, AC17.
• Scale Modeling Club — Sponsored by CSM Garcia; meeting location and time to be announced.
• Woodworking — Sponsored by Mr. Nothnagle and GySgt Coulter; meets Mondays from 1830–1930 in the Corn Crib.
• Worship/Praise Band — Sponsored by Mr. Benjamin Godfrey; meets Wednesdays from 1830–1930 in Retan Hall.

Club Rush is an important part of the cadet experience at Fork Union, helping young men find meaningful ways to connect, serve, lead, and grow. These activities allow cadets to develop talents, try something new, form friendships, and contribute to the life of the Academy.

As sign-up sheets filled with names, it was clear that cadets are ready to embrace the year ahead with enthusiasm. Whether through service, scholarship, creativity, craftsmanship, leadership, or fellowship, Fork Union’s clubs offer cadets another opportunity to grow in body, mind, and spirit.