Franklin County Schools Winterguard Team Shines in Recent Competitions
Franklin County Schools Winterguard Team Shines in Recent Competitions
Louisburg, NC – In an unprecedented achievement for Franklin County Schools, the Combined Schools Winterguard team clinched first place at the Holly Springs High School competition on February 10th, 2024. This historic win marks the first time the team has outperformed multiple larger counties, which is a significant triumph for the local band and color guard community.
The team is led by captain Gabriella Garbutt, a senior from Early College High School, and includes members:
- Brynlee Guetterman (8th grade, Cedar Creek Middle School).
- Rin Hantla (11th grade, Franklinton High School).
- Phoenix LeMaster (10th grade, Franklinton High School).
- Kennedy Perry (12th grade, Bunn High School).
- Alyssa Schafer (12th grade, Franklinton High School).
- Alyssa Steppe (11th grade, Bunn High School).
- Benjamin Toler (11th grade, Franklinton High School).
Selection for the Franklin County Combined Schools Winterguard was competitive, with students attending two spin clinics in early November to learn basic skills before showcasing their talents during a rigorous tryout process. The successful candidates were chosen for their skill execution and performance abilities.
Practicing Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the team's commitment is evident in their enchanting "Dance of the Faerie Folk" show and their continued achievements, including a third-place finish out of 14 at the Cleveland High School competition on February 3rd, 2024. The win at Holly Springs High School is a testament to the team's hard work, talent, and the strategic rebuilding efforts post-pandemic.
With four competitions this season and a special preview event for family and friends on March 16th, the Franklin County Schools Winterguard is making history and strengthening community bonds through their performances.
The Winterguard program is an artistic sport combining dance, movement, and equipment handling, such as flags, sabers, and rifles, and is an extension of the traditional marching band season. The Winterguard program is under the direction of Ms. Bailey Pelt, a Franklinton High School alum, and band directors Meredith Bryan (FHS) and Kerry Shimfessel (BHS).