Color guard is more than just flags and performances — it’s a passion that inspires confidence, teamwork, and belonging. Since the program began at SVHS, color guard performers have pushed themselves to master challenging tricks and complex choreography, often described as some of the hardest skills in the marching arts.
Captain and coach Kassie Taylor says the emotions before stepping onto the floor can be overwhelming. “I feel so nervous before, especially the Winter Guard performance — the last two weeks I was terrified — but after, I feel amazing,” she shared.
For many members, the team offers more than performance experience. Savannah Sloan explained, “I chose to do color guard because the girls really gave me a home. I didn’t have any friends before I did color guard… it gave me people to look forward to talking to and who understood me.”
Performers like Taggart Ivie emphasize that the activity requires more skill than people realize. “It’s got a lot more to it than a lot of people think… for some people it’s just swinging flags and looking pretty, but it’s not.”
Even sophomore Evelyn Andrus says the team environment stands out most: “I might be the only sophomore on it, but they all make me feel really welcome.” From creating choreography together to overcoming nerves before competitions, SVHS color guard continues to inspire students to join not just for the performance — but for the family they find within it.
Beyond the performances and competitions, the bond between SVHS color guard members is what truly sets the team apart. Captain Kassie Taylor shared, “I love them — they are some of my best friends,” reflecting the close friendships built through practices and performances. Savannah Sloan added, “We all love each other even if we’re so different,” showing how the team embraces individuality while staying united.
Taggart Ivie described the group as “very tight knit,” while Evelyn Andrus explained simply, “The people make it a great environment.” Brooklyn Bach emphasized the team mindset, saying, “Being able to lift others up and do your best, because as a team is what you’re graded for, not your individual worth.” Together, their words highlight that SVHS color guard is more than a team — it’s a supportive family built on encouragement, trust, and shared success.
Behind the bright lights and halftime shows, color guard puts in a ton of practice that most people don’t see. “Colorguard might look simple, but it takes hard work,” says Taggart Ivie. The team spends two hours a day practicing together to make sure every routine comes together just right. It can get pretty stressful—“Before our performances, it is very scary, I am scared I will miss certain skills, but afterwards it is the best thing ever,” Ivie adds.
Every member knows that learning the skills takes time and effort. “The skills were super difficult to learn, and I even almost broke my finger once. We wear gloves to protect our hands,” says Savanna Sloan, showing just how much dedication goes into perfecting every toss, spin, and flag move. Even with the nerves and long hours, performers like Brooklyn Bach love the rush of bringing months of practice to life. “I get nervous but also excited because I am excited to show everyone what we do, she says, describing the thrill of performing in front of a crowd. From practice to post-show celebrations, color guard is all about hard work, teamwork, and the excitement of doing something you love with people who become like family.
