Space Force hosts regional tryouts ahead of Guardian Arena III

Published Aug. 4, 2025
By Stacie N. Shafran
U.S. Space Forces-Space and Combined/Joint Force Space Component Command

VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) -- Guardians across the U.S. Space Force are lacing up and locking in as regional competitions are now underway in preparation for Guardian Arena III – the service’s premier test of strength, mental agility and cohesive teamwork.

Guardian Arena III graphic. — The Guardian Arena is an annual United States Space Force event designed to challenge competitors in the skills of problem solving, knowledge, and physical strength, with a goal of improving camaraderie, instilling esprit de corps, and providing an opportunity to operationalize the Guardian Ideal and Guardian Spirit in a healthy competition. The 2025 Guardian Arena, hosted at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, Dec. 8-9, 2025, will test Guardians, Airmen, and civilians from across the force to identify a single team as the best unit in the USSF. (U.S. Space Force graphic)

Set to take place Dec. 8-9 at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, the third annual Guardian Arena will bring together 35 elite three-person teams from Space Force units across the country.

“This competition is designed to forge stronger, more resilient Guardians,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna. “It’s a test of strength, endurance and mental sharpness – demanding a commitment to push your team’s limits and master your physical and cognitive abilities.”

Regional tryouts began July 28 and run through Aug. 15, with each unit hosting its own selection events. The goal is to identify and elevate top-performing Guardians who will represent their units at the December finals.

Guardian Arena tryouts — U.S. Air Force Airman First Class Allen Price executes an overhead press during the Guardian Arena Regional tryout at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif., July 28, 2025. The annual Guardian Arena competition is a two-day event that takes place in December at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida. Participating Guardians, Airmen, and civilians are arranged in teams to complete tasks that challenge their physical grit and fitness, as well as their teamwork and problem solving skills. (U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Kevin Hernandez)

Inspired by the grit of Roman gladiators, Guardian Arena is more than a competition, it’s a showcase of the Guardian Spirit. The event strengthens Space Force culture, sharpens operational readiness, and fosters a sense of unity and purpose across the ranks.

“Guardian Arena isn’t just about winning,” Bentivegna said. “It’s about teamwork, character and forging bonds that strengthen our resolve. It’s about showing what it truly means to wear the Space Force uniform.”

He also reminded competitors that how they train and compete reflects on the entire service.

“Character is the foundation of everything we do,” he said. “Uphold the highest moral and ethical standards as you compete – represent the best of the Space Force.”

a person sprinting on lawn — U.S. Space Force 1st Lt. Katherine Rodriguez, Space Launch Delta 30 Spaceport Innovation chief, sprints a shuttle run during the Guardian Arena Regional tryout at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif., July 28, 2025. Rodriguez completed the entire tryout day consisting of three physical fitness assessments, and three cognitive examinations. The Guardian Arena is an annual United States Space Force event designed to challenge competitors in the skills of problem solving, knowledge, and physical strength, with a goal of improving camaraderie, instilling esprit de corps, and providing an opportunity to operationalize the Guardian Ideal and Guardian Spirit in a healthy competition. The 2025 Guardian Arena, hosted at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, December 8-9, 2025, will test Guardians, Airmen, and civilians from across the force to identify a single team as the best unit in the USSF. (U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Kevin Hernandez)

The event directly supports the Space Force’s mission to secure U.S. interests in, from and to space. It also deepens ties with joint and international partners, enhancing cooperation and interoperability.

“Guardian Arena accelerates force development,” Bentivegna said. “It brings together the brightest minds and most capable warfighters to learn, grow and lead together.”

The road to Patrick SFB starts now and every rep, every ruck and every challenge completed along the way builds more than physical strength. It builds legacy.

“Guardian Arena 2025 is coming,” Bentivegna said. “Get ready to push yourselves, challenge your teammates and represent your unit with pride. Prepare to amplify the Guardian Spirit.”

Guardians who are interested in competing should talk to their unit commander.