HARRISONBURG, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) – A competition showcasing the advanced training and skills of law enforcement Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams will return to Harrisonburg later this week.

The 22nd Annual Harrisonburg SWAT Competition is set for Friday, Oct. 11. The event will include teams from across Virginia, particularly the Shenandoah Valley.

Opening ceremonies will start at 8 a.m. at the Harper-Presgraves Regional Training Center off Greendale Road.

According to a news release from the Harrisonburg Police Department, the SWAT competition is a vital training platform designed to push teams to excel under pressure across critical skills. In a major incident, SWAT teams from multiple agencies would need to collaborate and the competition helps foster networking, enabling the exchange of innovative expertise and cutting-edge strategies.

HPD Lt. Chris Monahan said in the release that this collaborative environment enhances individual performance and strengthens police forces’ collective ability to respond effectively through shared knowledge and refined skills.

“SWAT teams are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and training needed to tackle dangerous situations when required,” Lieutenant Chris Monahan, Commander of Harrisonburg Police SWAT Team, said in a statement. “Participating in a SWAT competition offers the perfect opportunity to assess individual team’s capabilities alongside those of other regional teams. It’s not just a test of skill; it’s a chance to forge strong relationships with teams who might partner together in the event of a major incident.”

SWAT Teams will face various challenges, including:

• Sniper Initiated Assault

• Black Rifle Event

• Operator Rescue

• No Fail Pistol Event

• Tactical Obstacle Course

• Mystery Event

• Pistol Shoot-off

Teams will compete for top rankings in the individual events and overall first, second, and third place. A total of 15 teams are registered for this year’s event, including:

• Chesterfield County Police Department

• Staunton Police Department

• Augusta County Sheriff’s Office

• Stafford County Sheriff’s Office

• Albemarle County Police Department

• Fauquier County Sheriff’s Office

• Manassas City Police Department

• Arlington County Police Department

• Harrisonburg Police Department

• Richmond City Police Department

• Fairfax County Police Department

The event is funded by local donations, team registration fees, and support from the Harrisonburg Police Foundation.