Prep Guide
Here's everything you need to know before the Combine.
This guide will help you arrive ready—physically, mentally, and spiritually. Read it carefully.
Gear Checklist
These items help you make it through the weekend.
- ■Headlamp or flashlight— with extra batteries
- ■Water bottle or hydration pack— minimum 32oz capacity
- ■Rain Gear
- ■Sleeping bag— rated for 30°F or lower
- ■Sleeping pad— for insulation and comfort
- ■Small backpack or ruck— 20-30L capacity
- ■Personal medications— if applicable
- ■Toiletries— basics only
- ■Bible and journal— optional but encouraged
- ■Knife / Multitool
- ■Tent / Shelter
- ■Sleeping Cot / Hammock— optional
- ■Cash— small amount for emergencies
What to Wear
Pack for warm and cool environments. Expect to get dirty.
- Sturdy boots or trail shoes— broken in, ankle support preferred
- Athletic shorts or pants— moisture-wicking material
- T-shirts— 2-3, avoid cotton if possible
- Long sleeve layer— for cooler temps
- Warm jacket or fleece— for morning/evening
- Rain jacket— lightweight, packable
- Hat or cap— for sun protection
- Extra socks— 2-3 pairs, wool or synthetic
- Underwear— moisture-wicking recommended
Layering is key. Mornings and evenings can be cold; midday can be hot. Be ready for both.
Logistics
Arrival
Check-in begins at 4:30 PM on Friday. Plan to arrive no later than 5:30 PM. Combine starts promptly at 6 PM.
Location
497 Tehilim Pines Ringgold GA 30736
Also: 497 Tehelum Pnes Ringgold GA 30736
The venue is remote—GPS may not work for the final stretch. Follow the directions provided:
- Continue on I-75 N to Rocky Face — 13 min (12.4 mi) Merge onto I-75 N
- Take exit 336 for US-41 S/US-76 E toward Dalton/Rocky Face — 0.2 mi
- Use the left 2 lanes to turn slightly left onto the US-41 N ramp — 223 ft
- Use any lane to turn left onto US-41 N/US-76 W/Chattanooga Rd — 2.6 mi
- Take Houston Valley Rd to your destination in Catoosa County — 15 min (9.1 mi)
- Turn left onto GA-201 S/LaFayette Rd — 0.5 mi
- Turn right onto Houston Valley Rd — 1.0 mi
- At the traffic circle, continue straight onto Houston Valley Rd/Whippoorwill Way — 4.6 mi
- Turn right onto Hickory Grove Rd — 0.9 mi
- Slight right onto Houston Valley Rd — 1.5 mi
- Destination on right
Parking
Park in the designated area. Your vehicle will remain there for the duration.
Departure
The Combine concludes Sunday by noon. Plan your return travel accordingly. You will be tired—consider a short rest before a long drive.
Physical Preparation
The Combine is physically demanding. Arrive capable, not peak.
You do not need to be an elite athlete. But you do need to be honest about your current condition.
In the weeks leading up to the Combine, focus on:
- •Walking or hiking with a loaded pack (20-30 lbs)
- •Functional movements: squats, lunges, carrying objects
- •Building endurance through sustained, moderate activity
- •Sleep—arrive rested, not depleted
If you have injuries or medical conditions, disclose them on your application. We will work with you, but we need to know.
Mental & Spiritual Preparation
The hardest battles will not be physical.
Before you arrive, spend time in honest reflection:
- •Where have you been passive when you were called to engage?
- •What responsibilities have you avoided or delegated wrongly?
- •Where has fear held you back from leading?
- •What are you hoping God will do through this experience?
Come with open hands. The men who benefit most are those who arrive ready to be honest—not to perform.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.”— Psalm 139:23
A Final Note
The Combine is not a test you pass or fail. It is a fire you walk through.
Arrive ready to be uncomfortable. Arrive ready to be known. Arrive ready to leave different.
Through Discomfort. Into Glory.