Each year the three AFROTC detachments in Utah (Utah State University, Brigham Young
University, University of Utah) gather to compete in their annual “Tri-Det” competition. The
event is comprised of multiple sporting and military skills events which test cadets both
physically and mentally. It’s hosted by each AFROTC unit on a rotating basis, and this year was
held at Brigham Young University, who also claimed the traveling trophy.
In addition to providing an exciting and fun opportunity to interact and compete against fellow
cadets, the Tri-Det competition, which is completely planned and executed by the cadet wings,
exercises critical thinking, leadership and planning skills to help hone the Air Force’s future
commissioned officer corps.
2024 marked the third year that members of Utah’s Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) have
assisted as referees, time-keepers and provided snacks and drinks for the event. This year
AFA teamed with active 17 active duty company grade officers and junior enlisted members
from Hill Air Force Base’s “Project One” to provide world class support for this year’s event that
was attended by over 200 AFROTC cadets.
Al Dubovik, a former AFROTC Detachment Commander and current AFA Utah VP for Cadet
Relations led the volunteer effort and commented, “Tri-Det is an outstanding leadership
laboratory for all the cadets, and it’s just awesome to bring together a group of highly dedicated
volunteers from both AFA and Team Hill to assist…I think we enjoyed this year’s event as much as the cadets!”
Capt Bri-Jae Scarbrough, 75th Airbase Wing Executive Officer commented, “As an active duty
AFROTC graduate myself, participating in Tri-Det was not only a nostalgic event but also an
amazing opportunity to connect with the next generation of Air Force officers. I'm thankful that
Hill AFB had the opportunity to collaborate with Utah AFA and amplify our Project One initiative
of readiness through community and belonging. I hope the bases participation in Tri-Det
becomes a Utah AFROTC tradition!”