Join the Guard

Winter Guard is seeking participants to join its competitive club. Practices are Tuesday and Thursday after school until 5:45 p.m., and competitions begin in February and will continue most weekends until the end of March.

”Our goals for this season is to increase size and to be one of the best Winter Guards in this area,” Director Mr. Augustin said. “We are also trying to get to an elite level so that in a couple of years we can go to nationals.”

Two year captain, Corinne Buckley, is eager to lead the varsity Winter Guard this season.

“As captain, I lead by example to help the team,” Buckley said. “We are really close, like a family. We learn from bad experiences together.”

Freshman Michelle Shibu is anticipating on adding Winter Guard to her list of many clubs. She is currently involved in HOSA, Bollywood Dance Team, band, and Key Club.

“I’m looking forward to making new friends,” Shibu said. “I’m also excited to learn how to spin the flags while dancing!”

This Winter Guard season will include six competitions. In preparation for these competitions, members are expected to work hard between November and February to improve technique and learn their show.

”We are starting the JV color guard rehearsals now, and after Thanksgiving break, the varsity guard will start rehearsing as well,” Augustin said. “Then, after the holiday break we have about a month to start getting ready for our first competition.”

The next clinics will be after school on Nov. 9, 10, and 14. Then tryouts will be held to determine if who makes JV and Varsity(band members will automatically be placed on JV to avoid Winter Guard conflicting with the band schedule). In order to join, a payment of $200 ($115 for band members) is due on Nov. 15.

“Ever since I first saw the Color Guard during marching band, I knew I wanted to sign up for Winter Guard,” Shibu said. “After attending these clinics, I will know if it’s right for me.”