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Is This Program For Girls Too?

  • Daniel Tatro
  • Feb 18
  • 4 min read

Updated: Feb 18

Young Marines program are open to boys and girls who want to focus

Yes, this program is absolutely for girls too. When most people hear “Young Marines,” they picture boys in boots running obstacle courses and learning to march, but if you walk into one of our drills, you will quickly notice something important: there are girls in uniform right alongside the boys, pushing just as hard, leading just as confidently, and thriving in the same challenging, supportive environment. Our doors are open to both boys and girls who want more than just another activity and are ready to be challenged, willing to learn discipline and responsibility, and interested in leadership, teamwork, and service. If that describes your daughter, she will fit here, wearing the same uniform, earning the same rank, and being held to the same standards as every other Young Marine, not as a “guest” in a boys’ program, but as a full member of the unit.


What girls gain from this program

Parents often tell us they are looking for something that builds more than just physical skill, they want character, courage, and resilience. In this program, your daughter will build confidence by setting goals and achieving them, she will learn to speak up and lead small groups, and she will practice respect for herself, her peers, and authority. She will experience the satisfaction of working hard and being held to high standards, discovering that she can do more than she thought possible. Yes, she will do PT, drill, and field activities, but she will also learn time management, accountability, and how to follow through when things get tough. These are life skills she carries into school, sports, friendships, and eventually her future career.


Will my daughter feel out of place?

A common concern we hear from parents is whether their daughter will feel out of place in a program like this. The short answer is no, girls are not a novelty here, they are part of the team. We focus on character and effort, not on whether someone is a boy or a girl, and respect is non‑negotiable. Our staff and senior Young Marines are intentional about enforcing a culture where everyone is treated with dignity and where each youth is expected to support their teammates. Some girls come in a little unsure, especially if they have not done something like this before, but very quickly they realize, “I can do this, I belong here,” and that moment is powerful to watch.

 

Safety, standards, and supervision

As a parent, you are not just asking if this is for girls, you are really asking if this is safe and appropriate for your daughter. That is a fair question, and one we take seriously. You can expect clear rules and structure at every drill and event, with trained adult volunteers who understand youth development, not just “military style” training. We keep expectations and activities age‑appropriate, challenging but not reckless, and we emphasize professionalism in supervision, communication, and accountability. We work hard to create an environment where your daughter is pushed to grow, but never left without guidance and support.

 

What kind of girl does well here?

This program works for a wide range of personalities and backgrounds. We have quiet, shy girls who slowly grow into strong, steady leaders, energetic, athletic girls who love the physical side and learn to channel that energy, and detail‑oriented, organized girls who thrive in planning, logistics, and leadership roles behind the scenes. Your daughter does not need to be “tough” already, that is what the program helps develop over time. What she does need is a willingness to listen and learn, respect for rules and leadership, and a basic desire to improve and be part of a team. If she brings those three things, we can help with the rest.


A different kind of community

In a world where a lot of kids are glued to screens, this program offers your daughter a very different experience. She will build real friendships through shared challenges, early mornings, long days, and the satisfaction of completing something difficult together. She will gain adult role models who reinforce the same values you are trying to teach at home, responsibility, integrity, and commitment. Parents often tell us they see changes at home, better attitude, better posture, more responsibility with chores and schoolwork, and a growing sense of maturity. Every time she puts on her uniform, she is reminded that she earned her place and that she represents something bigger than herself.

 

What is the next step?

If you are reading this and thinking, “This sounds like exactly what my daughter needs,” the next step is simple. Come visit one of our drills (OR CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED) and let her see the other girls in uniform participating and leading. Talk with our staff, ask your questions, and watch how we operate during a normal training day. You do not have to decide based on a brochure or a paragraph on a website, you can see it in person, meet the team, and watch your daughter’s reaction as she observes the structure, teamwork, and energy firsthand. If she is ready to be challenged, encouraged, and welcomed into a disciplined, supportive program, then yes, this program is absolutely for girls too.

 
 
 

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Southeast County Young Marines Midway City

14582 Beach Blvd.

Midway City, CA 92655

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