Hamilton County Senior High’s Color Guard program is making waves just three years after its relaunch, following a 15-year pause. The seven-member squad, with only two returning members, is set to compete at the state championships this Saturday in Springfield.
Head Coach Lindsay Hansen, who helped restart the program after noticing student interest while working in the school’s guidance office. The Color Guard season begins in August with a parade team, which Hansen describes as a fun, low-pressure introduction. Students then decide if they want to join the competitive team. Throughout the season, judges look for both precision and overall showmanship.
“We have two separate scores for each performance…a general effect and an execution score. Each score is out of 50 points, totaling 100, so in order to qualify for state, you have to score 80 points,” Hansen said. “Our general effect score focuses on the show and the concept—how we communicate what we’re doing and what you feel when you’re watching. Execution critiques the how—are they unified as a team, using the equipment properly, and using good form to avoid injury.”
This year, the team clinched first place in both the Lyrical division with their “Pure Imagination” show, inspired by Willy Wonka, and the Precision division with a “Paint It Black” performance—earning state qualifications for both routines.
Saturday’s state competition will see the squad up against all Single A teams for the Grand Champion title, with nearly 200 performances scheduled. Hansen says the team’s goal is to give it their all and deliver their best show yet.
Building the program has been a positive experience, Hansen adds, with strong support from the school. She believes Color Guard teaches invaluable life skills.
“I can’t imagine my high school years without it. Everyone is vital—if we have someone sick, we don’t have a bench to pull from. So everyone is equally important and the respect and teamwork that builds from that is just really fun to watch grow in the girls.”
For those unable to make the trip to Springfield, performances will be available on the team’s Facebook page. The season will conclude with a Friends and Family night on Wednesday, February 25th, celebrating the squad’s achievements.