Coordinating 6-10 people is a monumental task. It would be nice if everyone had some hiking and or backpacking experience.Taking 6-10 newbies up to the highest point in the continental United States is tricky and risky. If you decide to do it as a group then you will only be as strong as your weakest hiker.Make sure everyone reads the Orientation Notes for First Timers.
People in all kinds of shape have successfully made the summit. The key is how well one handles the altitude. That is why Steve's advice to get up to Horseshoe Meadows prior to acclimate is essential. With that being said everyone must be in some kind of good physical shape to make the summit. It is one long hard walk 11 miles each way with 6,000 feet of elevation gain.
BTW you don't have to actually show up in February to put in your permit application. It can be done by mail.
