“Color guard is the flag line in marching band and is also one of the many things that help tell a story during the marching band show,” said senior Kelci Pool.

Being a color guard member takes a lot of hard work, practice, and dedication.

“This group of students uses implements, such as flags (6 ft. and swing flags), rifles, sabers, and various other props, such as the year we used umbrellas. The members also learn ballet, hip hop, and various other dance techniques,” said band director Mrs. Kellie Knapp.

Knapp has been working with the color guard students for seven years. David Dickerson, a Bassett teacher, writes their routines while Knapp helps critique and assist clean-up.

Students interested in participating in color guard must try out in the fall, but are allowed to join in spring without trying out. During the fall, color guard is a part of marching band, and during spring, it a separate group called the Vanguard Winter Guard.

“We use the spring as a chance to introduce new members to techniques and skills,” said Knapp.

Pool has been in color guard for all four years of high school.

“I always wanted to be in color guard when I first saw it on a movie and loved the way the flags moved across the field,” she said.

Kelci’s favorite part of color guard is performing the actual show with full make-up, hair, and uniform.

The most crucial thing for a successful performance is teamwork.

“Color guard is unique as it takes many people to create and put together a routine. If you have ever watched the color guard perform, you have noticed that large amount of focus that it takes. Each student must be in sync with the other students around them,” said Knapp.

The color guard’s performances can be seen at football games, pep rallies, and the annual Home Show, which will be this spring.

“Color guard is open to any student with a passion and desire to improve themselves and others,” said Knapp.