For the first time, DHS has started their winter guard program. 

“Well, we have tried to do it in the past with one of our previous coaches, but she didn’t have any experience with it, so it kind of fell apart. But our new coach has lots of experience with a winter guard herself because she’s in one,” sophomore Kaylee Cole said.

Winter guard is a form of color guard that is a part of a marching band. Color guard has flags, rifles and other equipment that they use during the marching show; winter guard has the same concept, however, it’s solely for guard members. 

“We have more flexibility and creativity over what we can do. So in marching band, we’re pretty set with what we have,” Cole said. “We can’t really alter any of the choreography that we get from our specific choreographer. We can’t really get a choice in our costumes, because it has to be approved by directors. 

“Also our silks and what type of equipment we use in the show has to be approved by the directors. So we definitely have a lot more freedom in what we get to do.”

Winter guard had an exhibition competition on Jan. 31. This gave the guard members the opportunity to perform their show in front of judges for the first time while it being less stressful than usual. 

“It felt great to get to perform with some amazing people and get to watch other color guards,” junior Jordyn Kohr said.

They also get to perform at home basketball games with them performing at the game on Feb. 6, and get to have actual competitions in the future with their first one being Feb. 21 at Buhler.

Stella Niewald, a freshman, had made the team, but due to health problems won’t be able to compete at competitions. 

“I’m a manager. I try to help out whenever I can, I see what I can do to help the coaches,” Niewald said. “Once we have competitions, I’ll do anything and everything I can to help with my coach because she is in her own winter guard and has to compete as well.”

The guard members are welcoming and nice, as well. The positive environment helps the members feel supported while learning new skills and routines during practice. 

“I enjoy it. I like it, all the girls are really nice, and it’s just a really good community place,” Niewald said.