NC’s varsity and cadet winter guard teams participated in the Kennesaw Mountain Visual Invitational, their first competition of the season on Saturday January 26. The event took place at Kennesaw Mountain High School and showcased over 50 winter guard teams.

“I enjoyed seeing a beautiful piece of music come to life with each spin and toss. I was so excited when they [the varsity team] placed during awards. I look forward to more competitions,” parent Shanna Greve said.

After their performance called “First Flight,” the new middle school guard, placed second out of the six other guards in their class. The cadets earned an overall score of 38.900 out of 50.00, meaning they received almost superior scores. They left their first competition with a positive outlook for the rest of the season.

“I feel like when they [the middle school winter guard] practiced before they performed, some of them wouldn’t really get in the mood, but once they got on the floor, they did way better than I had expected. They were amazing,” sophomore Savannah Blanco said.

The varsity winter guard performed their show titled “Go with the Flow,” also placing second out of the six groups in their class. They earned an overall score of 54.250 out of 75.00, boasting their new second place title with pride.

“I think we did really well for the first competition. Even without a completed show, second place is a great place to start in the season. It’s good to stir up competition with other units for first place,” junior Kes McGuire said.

Overall, both of NC’s winter guard teams show great promise for the rest of their season with such a solid start. The next competition will take place at Harrison High School on Saturday, February 10, where they will perfectly twirl their flags and dance gracefully around the floor.

“While a sixteen hour day is grueling, feeling the adrenaline rush from performing is all worth the exhaustion. I’m so proud of all my guardies for second place; next time we are shooting for first,” sophomore Kate Moore said.