The Maltese Cross
 vs 
The Running Ws

Although the primary focus of La Junta's program and activities is individual success, team competition presented with a proper perspective is an effective means of helping each camper develop confidence, self-reliance, good sportsmanship and a realistic approach to winning and losing.

In the competition between the Running W Ranch and the Maltese Cross Ranch, emphasis is placed upon each member doing his best for the good of the team. Top priority is given to "pulling together" rather than stressing the individual competition.

In an age old tradition, on opening night of each session, all new campers draw at random from a hat, to determine which ranch they will join.  Membership is lifelong.  Careful preparation is made to assure that each ranch ends up divided equally within each age group.  Most every team competition is divided first into age groups and is further divided according to ability, the result being realistic and healthy competition for each boy against boys of similar age, strength and capability.

An important part of the La Junta experience is the discovery that everyone can excel at something and that each person's contribution to the team effort is significant and important. This is emphasized by the fact that most ranch points are contributed by individual accomplishment, rather than team events.  

Ranch competition is an exciting part of the La Junta Experience. Because membership to a ranch is a lifetime membership, this competition provides not only thrilling moments but also builds camaraderie, commitment to a team and loyalty to La Junta.

STRAWBOSSES and BULLDOGGERS:

On each ranch there are specially selected leaders to help in the planning of events and the organization of members.  At the forefront is an enthusiastic, veteran staff member who serves as "Strawboss".  The Strawboss leads the ranch and is responsible for motivation and the sportsmanship of the members.   The "Bulldoggers" are campers who have been chosen from the previous summer based on their point contribution to the ranch.  Bulldoggers serve as on the field captains and further reinforce the concepts of teamwork, sportsmanship and determination.