Color Guard 2015

by Veronica Catricala (2016)

Spinning flags, tossing rifles and sabres, and dancing are all part of the color guard life. Color guard welcomes everyone with any ability and is an activity that brings the group together.

​Junior, Devyn Clark expressed, “I joined color guard because the activity seemed really interesting to me. I thought the whole idea of spinning to music was really pretty and neat.” Another new member, Lily Langdon (sophomore) added, “My friend’s parents told me to join because their daughter was in band. Last year I didn't do it because I thought I was going to the greater Hartford academy of the arts, but I didn't. I was wishing I had done it last year so I joined this year.”

With every sport, hard work and determination have to be presented and portrayed. Both Clark and Langdon admitted that this activity does not come easy and naturally. Clark said, “The hardest part of this activity is doing foot and body while doing the flag work. For example, knowing where your feet should be and what position they should be in.”

Langdon agreed and responded with, “The hardest part has been when I am having trouble with a move or toss and I want to give up. I think I'm never going to get it and it gets frustrating and seems hopeless, and useless to even try.”

Currently, the Wethersfield marching band is more than half way through the season. Each practice the guard improves tremendously, working harder each time we repeat a move or section of the show. If improvement wasn’t shown, what would be the point?

When asked about noticing self­improvement along with team improvement, Clark stated, “Yes, I have seen improvement in myself and the team so far this season. At the very beginning of the season (band camp/practices) I had a hard time remembering all the work and putting it together. I also had trouble on tosses [releasing and catching] and being on time with the counts [of the work]. I think everyone on the team has improved on basics, staying focused, and looking professional during performances.”

​Determination, hard work, and the passion to continue something you love to do are the keys to success in life. Color guard is a sport I can be completely engulfed in and direct all my
time towards. I am extremely happy to have welcomed new members onto this incredible team and that they enjoy it as much as I do. 

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