The color guard is turning the page with a new coach at the helm.

Kaitlynn Morel, who brings three years of coaching experience, joined DHS because it provided the competitive scene she longed for.

“I wanted to be a part of a more competitive school and a bigger program,” Morel said.

DHS was an appealing choice as Morel searched for a school with more to do in the leadership aspect.

“I just wanted more to do for myself and the kids that I’m teaching,” Morel said.

After graduating from Maize South in 2021, Morel started her coaching career at Circle at just 18 years old, leading their color guard. 

“Having had the experience of coaching at a smaller school, which I’m grateful that I started at, I had the experience and knowledge to switch to a bigger school that I am accustomed to,” Morel said.

She hopes to carry that over to the performers who follow.

“It gives me an outlet to continue my passion but also bestow it onto others as well,” Morel said.

For her, it isn’t strictly just about giving instructions. It’s about growing with her students and learning with them along the way.

“One of my main goals was to get an understanding of everything and really get to know the guard and the skills of everyone so I could build upon that,” Morel said.

Senior Bree Stuhlsatz, the color guard section leader, quickly noticed a difference in her performance and her teammates’. 

Despite having had three coaches during her time on the team, Stuhlsatz said Morel stands out.

“Kaitlynn’s coaching style is definitely more direct and technique based than what I’ve had in the past,” Stuhlsatz said.

This fresh approach is beneficial for new members.

“It helps with more one-on-one, especially with new people who need a lot of help with technique because they have never done it,” Stuhlsatz said.