By YooJin SHEEN, intern

As the school year came to an end, so too ended the 2013-14 CVHS color guard season. During the year, the color guard, also called the winter guard during the spring semester that began in January, performed in numerous football half-time shows accompanied by the music of the award winning marching band. The color guard also performed in the school’s spirit assemblies and was cheered on by the students – many of who were surprised by the professionalism and talent exhibited by their peers.

Coaches Danny de Luna and Loette Snead led the team of Xander Trimis, Ardis Griffin, Amanda Adcook, Michelle Rasic, Amber Fulper and team captain Zippy Hwang.

“We have had such a great support system around us, and our [coaches] have really helped us grow into the performers we are today,” said Hwang of the guard.

Not only was the team recognized by the school, but praise was also received at the state level when the team earned a bronze medal in the WGASC (Winter Guard Association of Southern California) final championships at Marina High School in Huntington Beach. The Gatsby love-themed routine, “Forever & Always,” earned the team a third place slot and was the first medal placement in the history of CVHS winter guard.

“It was difficult, being a small and relatively new competitor in the winter guard circuit, but my team has really pulled through,” said Hwang. “Last year, we got to championships, but we didn’t medal, so getting third place this year was very, very welcome. I can’t wait to see where this team goes in the future!”

The winter guard members shared Hwang’s enthusiasm for the team.

“I have learned a lot this semester and have met so many amazing people through this team,” said Griffin. “I can’t wait until next year.”

  YooJin SHEEN