Reflection Paper On Color Guard

We often consider the distinguishing factors between a good and great guard to the details of our performance quality as a group; however, to achieve greatness as a whole we should first consider the contributions of all guard members as individuals. Last season, our team received a negative reputation for its mistakes and appearance as a group, yet no one wanted to take responsibility as an individual for not putting forth their best effort. I would be a successful captain because I am encouraging, organized, efficient, determined, and perceptive and would reinforce the standards set for this guard by identifying the issues at the individual level with respect and compassion yet experienced authority. As captain, I would always “be the example”

Color guard is where I have found some of my best friends; some I met at the first practice I attended after moving here and others I got to know as my sophomore and junior years progressed. The drama we experienced is not uncommon and reminds me of my experience with similar issues with the color guard from my old school, yet I was relieved to find such a dedicated and welcoming team that never treated me like an outsider when I joined the guard in the middle of the summer, so I have no doubts that this year’s guard can mend the fissures formed during the past season. I recognize that with a new group arises new challenges, but I would describe my vision for this season as hopeful because the only obstacle standing in the way of this guard’s success is a negative

Each year, band camp represents the period in which the tone for the season is set and expectations are established, but these habits will not be retained without enforcement. As captain, I would make it my goal to correct guard members on their basics when necessary, remind our group of our vision to improve morale, and insist that there is always room for improvement. Furthermore, to prevent negativity from being targeted at the dance line as it was last year I hope to form a positive relationship with the dance line members by encouraging our guard to get to know them during band camp and invite them to our pool party or just have lunch with them. Another issue that did not seem to be crucial, but I believe it would improve our overall visual uniformity, was caused by individuals coming back to the band room after dinner on game days without hair and or makeup completed, and sometimes guard members would even be on the bus without these responsibilities done. If we chose more simple hair and makeup styles or have multiple options to choose from and stress the significance of being ready on time, our uniform appearance would be heightened.