With the start of a new season, Emerson’s Winter Guard is diving into the months ahead with focus, excitement and plenty of hard work. The team is busy learning fresh routines, perfecting choreography and building the teamwork that makes performances truly shine, all while preparing to take the floor for competitions and share their creativity with audiences across the region.
As the new Winter Guard season kicks off, the team steps onto the floor with a mix of excitement, anticipation and a little nervous energy. Every rehearsal brings a combination of challenges and small victories, from spinning flags and mastering equipment work to memorizing complex routines. Along the way, members are learning not just the movements, but also how to work together, support each other and grow as performers. These early weeks set the foundation for confidence, improvement and the excitement of the competitions to come, giving the team a strong start to the season.
“It’s kind of hard keeping up with all the experienced people, and one way that I get through it is just keeping a good mindset. I have pressure on me, but I don’t want the pressure to get to me necessarily,” Naina Takkar, 9, said.
While the season keeps Winter Guard members busy with rehearsals and routines, many are balancing their responsibilities outside of the gym. Between schoolwork, extracurricular activities and personal commitments, members are learning to manage their time, stay organized and prioritize what matters most. Practices become not only a place to perfect choreography, but also a test of dedication and planning, showing how much each member invests in both their personal growth and the team’s success.
“With Google Calendar I’m able to manage my time. I know I have practice from 5 p.m. to 8 : 30 p.m., then I’ll study for my test from like 9 p.m. to 10 p.m., and honestly, just, like, knowing when everything is and being able to block out my time leads to me being more successful,” Avery St. Clair, 12, said.
Beyond individual growth and personal schedules, a big part of the season is the connections between team members. Winter Guard thrives on collaboration with upperclassmen guiding newer members and everyone working together to perfect routines. Practices are filled with encouragement, shared tips and support as members help one another tackle challenging choreography and equipment work. This sense of friendship creates an environment where everyone feels invested in the team’s success, strengthening bonds both outside of rehearsals.
“I think the team is like a family. Everyone’s always there for each other and not only in terms of guard, but other schoolwork and just personal stuff too, so I think that’s really amazing,” Elvina Louis, 12,said.
As the season continues, the team’s focus shifts toward upcoming competitions and the goals they hope to achieve. Each member sets personal milestones while the team works together to bring the show to life and showcase their collective skills. Members are mixed with excitement and nervousness as they anticipate stepping onto the competition floor. The drive to improve and the thrill of performing helps push the team through long rehearsals and challenging routines, making every practice a step closer to success.
“I hope the judges understand the complexity but also the symbols of the show and they’re able to catch, like, all the little details, how it adds up to the whole concept of the show. So, like, just understanding what, like, the theme we’re going for and why we’re doing the things we’re doing,” Takkar said.
As the new season unfolds, Winter Guard is already showing the dedication, teamwork and creativity that will carry them through the months ahead. Members are growing individually while building a strong, supportive team environment and veterans are helping freshmen stepping into new roles. Every rehearsal is bringing both challenges and victories as the team prepares to showcase a show full of energy, precision and passion. Winter Guard is ready to make this season unforgettable, not just for themselves, but for the audiences who will cheer them on every step of the way.
