Most people will likely give one of three answers when asked if they know what color guard is: "No, I've never heard of that before," "Oh you mean the flag twirlers!?" or, "Yeah, of course, I've heard of color guard before." These are the three responses that I have heard from others when I have asked them about color guard.

For those of you who don't know what color guard is, it's where the arts meet sports. This activity is one that demands a lot of physical endurance. In the summer, color guard members train themselves to learn and perfect multiple routines and build up endurance for a 12-minute show. The training takes place for the entire summer and it all leads up to the World Championships at the beginning of August. So to those who say that color guard isn't a sport, I'd like to say: "Think again!"

It takes a lot of hard work and determination to perfect one's technique. Performers make the show look easy, but it takes a lot of practice and dedication to make it seem that way. The phrase "Blood, sweat, and tears" is a literal thing in the color guard world. Color guard performers put everything they have into a show and that takes it to whole other level of artistry. Many color guard members strive to become better performers and to perfect their technique in hopes of one day joining a world renowned Drum Corps or Winter Guard.

But why write an article on this?

I saw a lot of my color guard friends post on their Facebook about how their summer tour is going and it brought back memories of when I participated in the activity. I wasn't able to finish the season two years ago because I ended up getting sick, and I haven't been able to return since due to financial restrictions. However, I still hold on to everything that I learned and I especially hold onto the memories that I made.

However, this past week, there was one video that really inspired me to write about the significance of color guard. The video has been shared by a few of my friends already and it's originally from Michelle Morales. To anyone who doesn't know what color guard is and understand the struggle that the performers go through, please watch this video. The link is right here.

Michelle, if you're reading this, I want to give you a shout out because you created an inspirational video about what color guard is and its significance to those who participate.

I can personally relate to the video because I always felt that I had to explain to my friends and family what color guard is, but they truly won't understand until they see a performance. I really miss this activity and as much work, pain, and time as it was at the moment, I can say it was worth it and I would do it again in a heartbeat. The feeling that you get when you're on the floor-- there's no words for it. To perform in front of an audience and to hear them cheering and screaming for you when you catch a flag, saber or rifle is beyond amazing. It's a rush like no other.

I hope that one day I can return to spin with my friends and perform one last time. I would also like to give a shoutout to all the performers who were in Drum Corps this summer. The shows that were performed on the field this year were spectacular. Now to wait until the Winter Guard season starts. I can't wait to see all the shows that will be put on the floor this upcoming year.