The color guard season has started and new passionate members join the team each week. English teacher Melanie Arrieta always wanted to be a member herself so she immediately jumped at the opportunity to coach the team this year.

“My biggest priority this year is rebuilding that sense of school spirit and teamwork,” said Arrieta. “I’m looking forward to seeing this group grow as a team and have fun!”

Co-captain Jessie Bell has been a part of color guard for three years and is excited to lead the team this season.

“My favorite part of being on the team is how supportive and welcoming everyone is,” said Bell. “If you’ve had a bad day, you can come to practice knowing that someone will be there to talk with you about it.”

Despite many of the color guard teammates being brand new, they all pick up on skills very quickly. The team is now up to ten members and they’re always welcoming more to join.

This year, color guard is taking a break from competing this fall, as their focus is pep band, halftime shows, and community parades. They are also hoping to attend winterguard competitions after the fall season is over. Co-captain Bethany Mouw is ready to continue the previous traditions that were put on pause due to last year’s COVID-19 restrictions.

“This year, I am looking forward to getting to know the new teammates, competing, and cheering on the BHS football team,” said Mouw. “I am also looking forward to getting experience being captain.”

If students are interested in joining the color guard, they can come see Mrs. Arrieta in Room I-2. The team meets at least three times a week from 3-5 p.m. and practices during first period class with the band on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“You will get bruises from dropping your flag, you will hit yourself with your rifle occasionally, and you will have trouble with the choreography, but we are all here to help you,” said Bell. “If you want to get better, don’t hesitate to ask for help no matter what!”