Now that the marching band season is over at Anderson High School, flag twirlers and rifle handlers are preparing for the upcoming Winter Guard season.
Senior Dylan Goode by listening to the show music. He closes his eyes, visualizes the show, and discusses with his friends.
In color guard, you can choose to perform with rifles, sabers and flags. On flag line, students twirl flags to the music. Students on the weapon line perform tricks with swords and model rifles.
Your experience level determines which prop you get to use. “It depends on the last time they used sabers,” Goode said. More experienced students can also use props such as briefcases.
Each station has its own challenges. Speaking about his own experience, Goode said, “It is hard when you throw [the flag] into the air. It will also hit you and chip your tooth.”
Despite the challenges, Goode is motivated to do well in color guard. He carries the dreams of his family with him. Goode is a 3rd generation color guard student.
If you are interested in joining color guard, you will need to contact Nikki Goodpaster for an audition. Practices are usually from 6 to 9 pm. Mini camps are usually from 9 am to 5 pm.