Tossing. Spinning. Hand movements. Was this cheerleading tryouts? No, this was Guard auditions. Instead of tossing people, they toss flags, rifles, and sabers (a type of sword). On Nov. 2, 3, and 4 people interested in Guard met in the small gym from 6-9 p.m. During the first two days there, they learned and repeatedly practiced a routine. By the third day, ready-or-not, they had to perform for the coaches. They performed in groups of four; two “veterans” and two “newbies”. Unlike many tryouts, the participants found out who made the team via email. The coach, Dwaine Williams, sent them a list of who made it. Normally everyone makes the team, but it depends on how many tryout. Senior RJ Howen felt confident about making the team.

“The tryout process went really well because I have found out I was really good at Guard,” RJ Howen said.

Guard isn’t as easy as it may seem. They work hard. Especially starting January when they have competitions every week. Some of the major competitions they go to are MCCGA, Mid-Continent Color Guard Association and WGI, Winter Guard International. The guard team has won MCCGA for the past two years and came in ninth last year at WGI.

Senior Beth Kruse believes that this will be a good year.

“I think all the people really like each other, which will make for a fantastic year,” Beth said.

By Amanda Edmiston