Basics you need to know for tryouts
Color Guard & Winter Guard Basic Info
In America, color guard and winter guard are two terms commonly used to describe the group of performers that spin [or twirl] a flag, or other equipment. The purpose of the color guard with a marching band is to display color and enhance the performance. Marching Band season is usually in the Fall, August - November, in America.
Winter guard, is typically the color guard now performing together over the winter months. Routines are more of a theatrical performance for guards performing in Winter Guard International [WGI]. Dancers typically enjoy the extra challenge of dancing and manipulating equipment.
Flag Pole
What, Where, How
🏳️ WHAT - Flag poles for this activity are usually 1” [inch] diameter, and come in a variety of sizes. The most common flag pole size is 6’ [feet] in America, and is made of high quality aluminum. Each end has rubber caps to protect the user. The caps are the rubber crutch style tips that fit on the end of a crutch. Some flag poles are weighted under the caps. This helps provide more control while spinning the flag. The flag itself comes with either Velcro or tabs. If your flag has Velcro, your pole will need adhesive backed Velcro, so you can “stick” the flag on. It is has tabs, loops, you will need electrical tape to tape the tabs to the pole.
🏳️ WHERE - You may have to really search for a place in your area. The USA has many suppliers, my favorite ones are Bandshoppe.com and McCormicksnet.com
🏳️ HOW - To put a flag together? This varies by instructor or group. Sometimes what you have on hand can also be used. Example: While an aluminum pole would be great to have, you might need to improvise with a mop handle, or a broom until you can purchase an aluminum pole. Check out my "Spin with a Broom" Series to start learning and practicing spinning while you wait for your flag to arrive.
LINKS in the USA:
Bandshoppe.com
McCormicksnet.com
Flag Pole
Select: 6’ pole, aluminum
*comes with rubber crutch tips and adhesive Velcro for the pole
Flag for the pole [approx. 36 x 54” suggested for a 6’ pole]
Curved rectangle, Select: 36 x 54.
The most important measurement is the FIRST measurement. The Flag “header” is the sleeve that actually goes on the pole, the first number is the length of the header. 35-36” is standard and best
for a 6’ pole.
Crutch tips from Bandshoppe
Crutch tips - If you order a pole from Bandshoppe or McCormicks, it comes with the crutch tips. If you get a pole from a different source be sure to ask for RUBBER crutch tips. If they don’t have them you can use the plastic tips, but they tend to break eventually. I find the rubber crutch tips last longer and work best.
Weights for the flag pole - I like to use weights to help spin the flag. Weighted flags provide a little more control because the weight helps you “slice” it thru the air. Some guards do not use weights. It’s a matter of preference.
Bolt sizes at Bandshoppe.com
Bottom Bolt [larger bolt] [3 inch]
Top Bolt [smaller bolt] [2 inch]
NOTE: I have never used the Bandshoppe weights. I am recommending them here in case you want a one-stop-shop. They recommend using them with their weight anchors. TIP: if your weights “clank” and make noise you can wrap the bottom with a cushion of electrical or masking tape. My first guard always wrapped in masking tape. My current guard uses carriage bolts from Menards [a bolt with a permanently attached washer].
Lastly,
Electrical tape: always good to have at least ONE roll of tape in your bag. I suggest tape color to match your crutch tips. I typically have a roll of white in my bag.
White electrical tape from Menards, Home Depot or Lowes.
NOTE: CHEAP electrical tape from the Dollar Store is NOT a great choice if you are in a humid or hot environment. It’s best to splurge a little and purchase the higher-quality electrical tape. Electrical tape will break down over time. Always check your poles regularly. Make sure your flag is firmly attached, the caps are in good condition, and the tape is secure.
Replace tape and make repairs as needed. I have had my flag and pole at home since 1996 and it’s been great! Once you buy a proper flag and pole/caps/weights/tape/Velcro - it should last a lifetime!
Video Link:
• WAHS Color Guard Basic...
12 июл 2024
