Heritage High School’s winter guard team has concluded a spectacular and undefeated season, finishing the season off with a first place win at the SAPA Championships in Chattanooga, scoring an 87. This success is a huge testament to the team members’ rigorous practice schedule, dedication, and excellent teamwork.
Winter guard is scored on a 100-point system, which evaluates four main sections. The sections include general effect, which evaluates the overall effectiveness, equipment, movement, and design analysis. There are typically two judges for general effect and one for each of the other sections.
Winter guard is an indoor color guard activity that combines the art of dance with the technical manipulation of equipment, such as flags and rifles, all performed to music. Unlike color guard, which takes place during football games and supports the marching band, winter guard is a more advanced, skill-focused activity that is on a small, and more technical, scale during the winter and spring months.
Our team’s success did not come easily. Members had to commit to intense weekend rehearsals, running from 9 AM to 9 PM. These long hours were instrumental in improving their skillsets, as shown by their perfect record this year.
Coaches Sayra Cook and Becky Clinton were pivotal in leading this team through this very demanding season, helping members push their limits and achieve excellence. The coaches leadership fostered an environment of hard work that went directly into their success. Senior Zaybree Simpson noted that the season was “very successful and a lot of fun, as well as memorable.”
Despite having fewer competitions and a smaller team size this year, members expressed overwhelming satisfaction with the season. Junior Emma Brittion stated, “Winter guard is more independent and skill-based than color guard.” Senior Emmaline Brown also felt this way and proudly confirmed the team’s undefeated season.
Beyond the trophies and high scores, members reported having a lot of fun and creating memorable experiences. This season wasn’t just about winning, but personal growth, skill development, and the strong bonds formed through shared dedication. The team looks forward to building onto this momentum in the nearby season.
