WHAT IS WINTER GUARD?

Winter Guard is exactly the same thing as Color Guard; which is a performance art. We visually bring music to life through dancing, acting and other interpretive movement with the use of flags, rifles, other equipment and props. The main difference between the two is that Winter Guard is done indoors and to pre-recorded music. We step it up a notch by creating our own show utilizing all skill levels in dance, theater and our equipment. We are a part of the Pacific Performing Arts Association (PPA) competitive circuit. We participate in at least two Winter Guard competitions, include state championships and we also perform with the marching band in parades.

We aren't looking for perfection at auditions. We're looking for potential. We watch how students learn, how they move, their rhythm and coordination, and how they respond when something is difficult. Some students pick things up quickly, while others need more repetition, and that's okay. What matters just as much as learning the skills is how students respond to coaching. Can they listen to corrections, try again, handle frustration, and treat their teammates respectfully? Winter Guard is competitive, and we have a responsibility to choose students who are willing to learn, accept feedback, and contribute positively to the team. We don't expect students to arrive knowing everything. We do expect them to be willing to learn, work hard, accept coaching, and be a positive part of the team.

WHO CAN JOIN OHHS WINTER GUARD?
All students who will be in grades 9-12 within the Oak Harbor High School School District are able to join.

WHAT EQUIPMENT DOES THE WINTER GUARD USE?
Aluminum flagpoles that are 6 feet long
Silks (flags) that can be as long 70 inches
Wooden rifles that are 37.5 inches long
Sabres that are 36 inches long
And anything else we want to add to our show

What do we do with all of this?  We spin them, we do tricks with them, we toss them and we even throw them at each other. We incorporate rhythm, math and science to execute precise movement and technique. Our equipment and props are always pushing the laws of physics with force and speed, action and reaction. All of this is with an incredible control of time. We get to express ourselves. Along with our creativity, we emotionally connect to the music and show you that emotion through our movement. We build confidence, in ourselves and together as a team.
And we want you to join our team! Here’s how…

COSTS
Winter Guard is free to join. All equipment is provided.
Personal items, such as gloves, shoes, undergarments, etc., will need to be purchased by the student for their own use. Estimated cost: $150+/-.

LEARN MORE BEFORE WE BEGIN
We have an Informational Meeting for interested students and their parents/guardians. At this meeting, you can meet the instructors, current team members, see the equipment, learn about Winter Guard, the camp and ask any questions you may have.

Because this activity does require a lot of physical exertion, we need to make sure  parents/guardians are aware and allow their students to participate. An info packet that includes an “Audition Agreement” is available online and in the band room at OHHS. It must be signed by a parent/guardian along with the student. It must be submitted on or before the first day of Winter Guard Learning Camp. 

No problem if you miss the meeting, you can scroll back up and get the info and online forms needed. We've got you covered!

STUDENTS, TRY IT FOR YOURSELF
Once the info meeting is done and paperwork is submitted, students will then attend our Winter Guard Camp. This is where you will come in to learn different equipment, dance and theater techniques and a short auditioning routine (includes dance & flag).

Students will learn alongside our returning fall Color Guard members and learn something different every day.  We will teach students everything they need to know and supply the equipment.

FOR CAMP, STUDENTS WILL NEED
Stretchy, athletic attire (NO jeans, no hoodies, no hats).
Gym shoes
Knee pads (soft, volleyball style)
Water bottle (refillable is best)
Hair ties to keep long hair off the face

Required audition agreement & progress report form due by Tuesday, November 17th.

AUDITIONS
Auditions are held on the last day of camp. Everyone performs the routine together as a group unless otherwise requested. Audition Results will be emailed to students by November 25th.

IF YOU ARE OFFERED A POSITION
You will first need to accept your position by Nov 28th. You will need to return for your first REQUIRED meeting with a parent/guardian on Nov 30th at 6:00pm. This meeting will outline the Winter season. You will meet additional staff along with meeting other members, getting schedules, filling out required paperwork and more. Most important, measurements for your uniform will be taken.


CURRENT TENTATIVE SCHEDULE FOR 2027
Rehearsals: December 1, 2026 - April 26, 2027
- Monday through Friday: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
- Locations vary, more info at info meeting

2027 Performance Schedule - Required Attendance
February 13, 2027: Eval at Peninsula High School
March 20, 2027: Competition in Ferndale - Regional
March 27, 2027: Competition in Wenatchee - Championships
April 17, 2027: Performance Art Showcase at OHHS
April 24, 2027:  Holland Happening Parade in Oak Harbor