Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be part of the SB Winter Guard? Maybe not, but I’m going to tell you regardless! Having watched one of the practices and talking with friends on the team, I learned a lot about this fascinating sport.
As the team members walk in one by one, they slip off their shoes while cheerily talking amongst themselves. They put their flag and rifle gloves on, truly getting ready to begin.
Then, the real magic happens. The huge mat is brought out by all the members carrying it, much like a log. Props are set beside it, brought on by whoever’s turn it was to collect them the previous night. As the team members shout in synch, it is slowly and tightly rolled out, revealing an arrangement of bright colors. As they eventually find their spots on the mat, every member starts warming up, an essential part of playing any sport.
The coaches call out counts and names of stretches. The team moves through them gracefully, like a single, well-oiled machine. Uplifting music blasts out from the speakers, ranging from power anthems like “We Will Rock You” by Queen to happy songs like “Firework” by Katy Perry. After feeling their muscles loosen up, the real “torture” begins: running laps. This exercise ensures that each team member is able to build up the endurance they’ll eventually need for their important shows.
Next, the members move into 3 lines almost instinctively, likely due to the consistent routine of their practices. With the music still playing, the Coaches, along with the members, start counting yet again. “1, and 2, and 3, and 4, and 5, and 6, and 7, and 8!” The members start their dance warm-ups, doing everything from jetés to pliés to jumps.
Each member soon retrieves their equipment of specialty, and using the same counts, everyone practices spinning (for flags) and throwing (for rifles). For many, the spinning of flags remains their favorite to practice, especially team member Avighna Shree Tirumala (‘27). When asked about the best part about every day practice, she stated: “ Flag sectionals because I like to practice whenever I can.”
As the members slowly come together after their sectionals, the powerful music for the team’s official routine starts playing. Each member, like instruments in a symphony, finds its spot and freezes before the first beat hits. Then, all you can see is the flamboyant array of bright colors and patterns everywhere. People are dancing in the middle, flags are continuously spun in the back, and heavy rifles are impressively thrown to either side.
The final note hits, and resonates throughout the annex gym. Smiles start popping up on everyone’s faces, including the happy coaches. This marks the end of an everyday Winter Guard practice for our school’s team; even though it shows an amazing display of hard work and dedication for anyone else who is lucky enough to witness it. Freshman member Shrija Pandya (‘29) states: “My favorite part of practice is how everyone is always so connected. It’s like one big family!” And Tirumala, believes: “There are some highs and lows, but at the end of the day, practice always goes well!”
