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Belleville East High School in Belleville, Illinois recently hosted an informative Air Force assembly that left a lasting impression on student-athletes and staff alike. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON and led by U.S. Air Force recruiter TSgt Kyle Groth, brought together members of the men’s and women’s wrestling teams for an up-close conversation about service, career opportunities, and life beyond high school.
Rashad Riley, wrestling coach at Belleville East High School, described the visit as an eye-opening experience for students who are actively thinking about their futures.
“It was an awesome experience. The kids were engaged and asked some great questions,” Riley said. “One of the most common statements I heard was, ‘I really thought that the army was my only outlet.”
According to Riley, the assembly helped broaden students’ perspectives and even encouraged some who had been considering other military branches to take a closer look at the Air Force.
A key factor in the event’s success was the personal, small-group format. Students were able to ask direct questions and receive honest, real-time answers.
“By actually having a person on site that can answer questions directly, it really affected the kids,” Riley explained. “Hearing a positive story and understanding what life could be like during and after duty made some of our kids reflect and grow interest.”
TSgt Groth shared his own journey with students, explaining that he joined the Air Force seeking life skills, travel opportunities, and long-term career benefits. Having served as an electrician and now as a recruiter, Groth emphasized the wide range of career paths available.
“The Air Force offers over 140 career fields,” he told students, noting options ranging from cybersecurity to aircraft maintenance, many of which translate directly to civilian careers.
Groth also highlighted how athletics can prepare students for military service.
“Sports give structure,” he said. “You have a coach, team captains, and teammates all working toward a common goal. There’s a physical and mental component that mirrors what we do in the Air Force.”
Beyond careers and benefits, the assembly focused on dispelling common misconceptions. Many students were surprised to learn that most Air Force members train extensively for specific jobs rather than serving on the front lines.
“Don’t knock it until you gather all the information,” Riley advised students who may have doubts. “Some of the things you’re afraid of really aren’t that bad or aren’t true at all.”
The assembly underscored the importance of exposing high school students to diverse career pathways and leadership opportunities.
As Riley summed up, “Our recruiter made the kids, and myself, feel like he was one of us. That genuine connection kept the conversation going and made the experience meaningful.”