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Post by LeanderMomma on Feb 20, 2019 18:14:27 GMT -6
Just want to start a new thread to discuss this season's winter guard since my MFA thread was deleted.
Last weekend, February 16 & 17, was the first big contest of the season. WGI ~ Indianapolis. Here are how the top scholastic guards finished the weekend.
Scholastic A Class:
1st--Zionsville Community HS; 80.450
2nd--Carmel HS A; 77.230
3rd--Franklin Community HS; 76.400
Scholastic Open Class:
1st--Fishers HS; 77.600
2nd--Ben Davis HS; 76.400
3rd--Milford HS; 75.400
Scholastic World Class:
1st--Avon HS; 85.600 (up from 83.700 in prelims)
2nd--Carmel HS; 81.400 (up from 80.400 in prelims)
3rd--Centergrove HS; 80.300 (up from 76.000 in prelims)
Avon was definitely in a league all their own this past weekend and I think that they will easily take the Scholastic World Class Championship again this year. I look forward to seeing some of the Florida guards and others around the country in the coming weeks. Leander just moved up to Open Class this season, and they easily took 2nd place behind McNeil HS in their first WGI contest at the beginning of February in San Antonio. They are off to a great start in Open Class!
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Post by madisonbandman1 on Feb 20, 2019 19:31:23 GMT -6
Nice! Can't wait for WGI in dripping springs. Excited to see how some of these groups do.
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Post by macwinlin on Feb 20, 2019 22:52:19 GMT -6
I LOVE Avon's show this year. If you weren't familiar, Blessed Sacrament used this music (Mr. Tanner by Henry Chapin) in 1990. You can find that video on YouTube.
Carmel is great as always. I'm a little surprised by their music selection and design. Looking forward to seeing the show in Dayton.
I'm excited to see West Broward soon, as well as videos of Tarpon and Logan, even though they won't be attending Dayton this year.
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Post by LeanderMomma on Feb 26, 2019 15:12:38 GMT -6
Thereβs another WGI this coming weekend in Leander at Rouse HS. Itβs technically WGI ~ Austin. I will be there for most of the finals action on Sunday. I'm looking forward to seeing if Winston Churchill can keep their momentum going in Scholastic A. They have really been dominating that class in every competition they have entered so far (including WGI and TCGC--the Texas Color Guard Circuit). There are a lot of great groups in Open Class as well including Dawson, Klein Oak, McNeil, Dripping Springs, Little Elm, Cedar Park, Hendrickson, Flower Mound and Leander. World Class will see The Woodlands and James Bowie joining CTJ for the first time. Iβm sure CTJ has added quite a bit to their routine now, and I canβt wait to see what Bowie and TWHS bring. I know Bowie is using those huge blobs from their marching show last fall. I can't wait to see how far everyone has come in the past few weeks. Leander's JV squad won first place again in the JV division last weekend at TCGC. I wish they would compete in some of the WGI contests at the Scholastic A level. I think they would do well there. Maybe next year.
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Post by LeanderMomma on Mar 2, 2019 22:58:31 GMT -6
Prelims Scores after WGI Austin today in Leander at Rouse HS.
Scholastic A:
1 Westlake HS (TX) 82.560
2 Pflugerville HS 81.740
3 Friendswood HS 81.040
4 Winston Churchill HS 80.060
5 Rouse HS 79.710 (yes!!)
6 Langham Creek HS ( Houston) 79.650
7 Keller HS Varsity 79.520
8 New Braunfels HS 79.370
9 Guyer HS ( Denton) 79.050
10 Keller HS A 78.570
Scholastic Open Class:
1 McNeil HS 81.900
2 Dripping Springs HS 78.400
3 Little Elm HS 76.900
4 Flower Mound HS 76.800
5 Leander HS 76.500
6 Dawson HS (Pearland) 75.800
7 Hendrickson HS 75.800
Scholastic World Class
1 James Bowie HS 73.700
2 The Woodlands HS 73.300
3 Claudia Taylor Johnson HS 63.500
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Post by madisonbandman1 on Mar 2, 2019 23:54:31 GMT -6
Where did the James Madison groups place?
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Post by josephbandfan on Mar 3, 2019 0:18:26 GMT -6
Lots of close scores! Can't wait to see what happens tomorrow.
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Post by LeanderMomma on Mar 3, 2019 6:40:42 GMT -6
Where did the James Madison groups place? I didnβt get to see them. They didnβt make finals but their score was 71.060. |
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Post by madisonbandman1 on Mar 3, 2019 11:19:39 GMT -6
Ok thank you.
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Post by LeanderMomma on Apr 3, 2019 10:56:12 GMT -6
You folks with a FloMarching subscription really need to watch WGI Worlds this week if you can!
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Post by Jake W. on Apr 4, 2019 1:24:41 GMT -6
Hey all! I thought I'd mark my first post on the HornRank forums with my usual novel. Thank you, Jeremiah, for creating this alternative to the now defunct MFA forums.
I haven't had the chance to head back to WGI in the last few years, but always watch on Flo, and as much as I am mind-boggled and impressed with the top IW groups, SW is where it's at for me, mostly because I always see a direct correlation to how the great visual minds are going to influence what we see on the field in the fall the next year.
Anyway, I thought I'd put together a primer for anyone watching SW in Prelims, Semis, or Finals!! As a band guy first who has been slowwww but happy to learn the ins & outs of the guard world, I'll be approaching this through a BOA lens; i.e., who these groups are in the BOA world, etc.
-------- Clear Frontrunner --------
Avon (IN) -- Two time ('09, '18) WGI SW Champion, SW Class for 15+ years. No need to explain the marching side of things.
No one will touch them this season, and I fully anticipate the group to hit a 98 (not done by the SW champion since James Logan's record-setting years in the 00s), maybe even setting a high score record. They're that good this year. I'd place money on the notion that no guard will be able to overtake them in even a sub caption this weekend in any of the three rounds. If you're watching ANY scholastic guard on Flo or live this weekend, make it Avon. It's unreal what they're getting out of these kids this year.
-------- 2nd - 6th Grouping --------
Carmel (IN) -- Four time ('11, '14, '16, & '17) WGI SW Champion, SW Class for 10ish years, no need to explain marching side of things.
Carmel is my go to group, mostly because I respect the hell out of what Rosie Queen has done with that program in the last 10 years and how her writing has influenced everything we see on the field at the scholastic level in the fall. Brilliant, brilliant woman. Despite that, this is the second year in a row that I'm not thrilled with their winter design, but they'll still end up 2nd - 4th. They've been top 3 since 2010, and despite it not being my favorite production of their's, I want to see this trendsetting guard medal for the 10th year in a row.
Center Grove (IN) -- VERY historic guard, Champs in '84, '86, '90, SW Class for thousands of years now, no need to explain marching side of things.
Center Grove is back at the top and here to stay, and could medal for the first time in years. Not much to say here; this program has literally decades of training & tradition, and is clearly influential in their fall programs. Excellent program that demonstrates outstanding training. I would love to see them medal.
Miamisburg (OH) --- VERY historic guard, '91 & '92 SW Champs, SW Class for thousands of years now as well. Marching band; long time BOA participant that FINALLY made GN Semis in 2016 after years and years of attending (and being close a number of times as well). Always a large, good band from a smallish (AA in BOA) school that puts the thrust of focus on their historic & talented guard.
Miamisburg is similar to Center Grove; both very laudable, historic programs that dropped near the bottom of the class (but never out of it) for a few short years and then have risen back to the top...and similar to CG, this will likely be their highest finish since rising back to power. For those playing along, Miamisburg is historically known for being INSANE weapon handlers, and this year is no exception. Don't miss the show. Extraordinarily impressive weapon handlers with a soloist who has a stunning double rifle feature.
Trumbull (CT) --- Another long time SW guard (15+ years), had their highest placing last year at 2nd. Marching band is a large (for the NE), traditional band that has been dipping their toes into BOA waters the last few years, finding a lot of success in the region, winning the BOA NE Regional in 2016. About at the level of Miamisburg; i.e., would be on the bubble for Semis if they ever attended GN.
Trumbull is a terrific group of strong weapon handlers who have always dominated SW Finals, and have always had creative shows to boot. They're a guard that can do aggressive one year and slow & beautiful the next seamlessly. I don't quite think they'll be able to rocket back up to 2nd this year, but they could reasonably land anywhere in the 2 - 6 range. Trumbull has the curse of geography...they really don't see anyone in their talent range until Dayton.
West Broward (FL) -- 8th year in SW. Marching band was a rising star in FL about 5 years ago but seems to eschew BOA participation now; they're definitely a band that tilts HEAVILY towards guard & visual design on the field.
West Broward, for those who are unfamiliar, decided 2 seasons ago to just say f*ck it, we're just going to entertain everyone...and rocketed up through the ranks with their Amy Winehouse show (please YouTube it!). Last year was even better, and while they're doing slower music this year, they still haven't looked back --- crowd pleasing is their game through & through. Don't miss this group.
-------- 7th - 8th Grouping --------
Norwin (PA) -- SW guard for 10ish years now. Marching band needs no introduction --- though others like Kiski & West Genesee have risen over them at times, they are the undisputed king of the NE for four decades now.
Norwin is looking to shatter their record high of 9th place in the class this year. What a show! No recorded music, just a live singer. Besides the gimmick of the live singer, Norwin's got a group full of outstanding flag performers --- where other groups shine in weapon work, Norwin has crystal clean, extended, searing flag features. Don't miss this show!
Flanagan (FL) -- The "it" guard of the 00s, now stumbling a bit, but still very powerful. '08 & '12 SW champion, PLEASE YouTube their 2012 show!!!! Marching band side of things, what an odd mix. Had some success in BOA in the late 00s, now their band is much smaller. Came to GN in 2017 and placed in the 40s, not too terribly far from making Semis. Didn't make Finals at BOA Orlando this year. Very modern, electronic-focused, visually-focused shows. YouTube their 2011 BOA Atlanta show -- I swear on their first impact they have just as many flags as winds.
Flanagan has been a top 5 guard for the last 10 years sans 2017; I fear they're on the path to be left out again this year. A Mister Rodgers show, sweet at heart, but fairly low-budget looking (I get that that's the point, but odd to see from Flanagan). Still INCREDIBLE weapon handlers and as long as Dean Broadbent is at the helm, spectacular in the movement department. The show just seems like a swing and a miss from this group that has produced so many hits. There's a ten second pause (literally) for the audience members to think of someone special or something like that...and it just brings all movement & momentum to a crash. I get why it's in there, but talk about taking the wind out of the sails.
--------9th - 13th Grouping --------
Ayala (CA) --- SW for 10ish years now, only found success last year, having made SW Finals for the first time after getting Michael Lentz of Onyx fame on their design team. Marching side of things needs no introduction; California's best band.
Ayala is the wild card going into this race. They're a good guard with a top 10 worthy show; the guard has risen VERY quickly after getting a good design team on their side last year and, frankly, hasn't quite figured out how to perform consistently yet, although this year is stronger than last (and they'll eventually become a solid force at the top of SW Class). We'll see which Ayala shows up. I remember four years ago, they didn't make it past Prelims with a guard that was good but a show that belonged in middle-of-the-pack SO Class. Now they've risen quickly with two exceedingly difficult and masterfully-written shows in a row, that the guard still doesn't seem to have quite mastered yet (as of the West Power Regional). I *really* look forward to seeing the improvement Ayala has made for Dayton this year...I'm still skeptical that they'll be as clean as the sky-high demand calls for, but I imagine we'll see shadows of what's to come for them.
Lyman (FL) --- Second (!!!!) year in SW Class. First (!) year attending Dayton in the class. I know almost nothing of their marching band --- they don't participate in FMBC or BOA.
I don't know what happened, but this group is giant (28 members), absolutely exploding in the movement captions, and has a dynamite, sultry show. No chance they will be outside of Finals, and could rise to the top of this pack, landing in 9th, which would be insane for this newly-minted World Class group. Don't miss this show!!!! Unprecedented levels of success for this group, and for most groups breaking into SW.
Shenendehowa (NY) --- Third year in SW Class, SW Finalist the last 2. Shenendehowa seems to be young this year; after shooting through the ranks in SW Class the last two years, they seem to have cooled this year, and are a bit smaller. Still a neat show, if not a bit underwhelming following the previous few. This group really has layered in a ton of World Class work throughout the season, as opposed to starting dirty and cleaning; a very unique approach, and I'm excited to see where the design ended up.
**Fun fact about Shenendehowa: they have no marching band, nor have they ever. Zero. And it's a pretty historical guard program, very active in WGI throughout the last two decades. After doing a bit of research, it appears the three winter guards come together to form their 70 memberish Fall Guard, and that's the only thing that performs at football games, of which there are videos on YouTube. No idea how a 3-tiered WGI guard program got started here, but somehow it did!**
Stoneman Douglas (FL) --- Fifth year in SW, among the best weapon handlers in the class. Marching band is one of FL's best and is finally breaking into BOA.
Stoneman Douglas has a CRAZY difficult show this year and started rough, but scored much higher at the WGI Southeast Power Regional. I get why its not scoring higher --- the design isn't big on depth or simultaneous demand compared to their peers --- but if you're looking for tricks & sky high tosses, this is the group to watch. Tons of old school unison work. Love this group. I'm curious to see how it's received in Dayton...this one could rise in the ranks or fall quickly based on judges' tastes.
Warren Central (IN) --- 10+ years in SW Class. Marching band used to be an Indiana great; now is a gigantic school in a fairly rough area of Indy that only manages to field maybe 110 kids, 40 of which are usually their killer guard.
Warren is Warren....for those that have been around WGI for a bit, they're a group that doesn't often care to venture outside their box, and that's ok. Fast, aggressive work is their signature. I do tend to think their style has become a bit stale, but no chance they'll miss Finals. They're a terrific group.
-------- 14th - 16th Grouping, or Most Likely Finalists --------
El Dorado (CA) --- First (!) year in SW Class. 3rd in SO last year. I know almost nothing of their marching band.
This is a group I'm very curious to see...they were pretty dirty at the West regional, but that left them with two weeks to clean. If they cleaned, they could break into Finals as a first year SW group. If not, the show itself is a bit of a mess and I could see them really falling in the ranks. I suspect they used this time to clean. It's just interesting, though; they clearly cleaned last year...but is the staff & group capable of cleaning World Class material now?
Northview (IN) --- VERY historic SW group, along with Miamisburg & Center Grove. Marching band is a historic Indiana great, often a Class "B" champion (AA schools in BOA), very innovative band. Long time director Bob Medworth just retired, his wife Ruth Ann Medworth, in the WGI Hall of Fame, still heads the color guard.
Northview has fluctuated up & down throughout the class over the years, but have always remained a SW-level group. After missing Finals for four years in a row, and graduating their first class since the 80s to have not made WGI Finals, they finally made it back in last year. I'd like them to again this year. Not the most innovative show ever, but the name of their game is consistency: Ruth Ann Medworth has been getting farm girls in Brazil (pronounced BRAY-zll in backwoods Indiana) to perform guard work & dance skills at world class levels for 30+ years, and as long as she's at the helm, they're in the hunt for Finals. Frankly, I really like what they're doing this year, appreciate the consistency and depth of performance ability, and expect to see them rise in the ranks a bit this weekend (currently seeded 15th).
The Woodlands (TX) --- SW for 5ish years now, 2nd trip (I think?) to Dayton as a SW group. No need to introduce the marching band side of things.
If I had my druthers, I'd put Northview & TW in as the last two Finalist groups. The Woodlands has really embraced World Class writing & design elements; I just wish their ability to put on a rock solid performance was a bit more consistent, but that's part of learning the ropes of World Class as well. TW has the design to make their first SW Finals appearance...let's just see how well they've cleaned, and how hot of a performance they can put on in Semis! Their TCGC scores from last weekend were less than ideal, but I remain optimistic for their chances.
-------- 17th - 19th Grouping, or Less Likely Finalists --------
Arcadia (CA) -- 15+ year SW Group, fell out of Finals last year for the first time in 10+ years. Entirely new staff this year that's still learning to gel. Marching side of things, the "Duncanville" of CA...aka a gigantic, traditional band (seems to have shrunk a bit in the last few years) that has been slow to embrace BOA. Historically, world class WGI guard & percussion programs.
Arcadia is still a good group, just adjusting to a new staff and the challenges of that. A well-written show, but I have to say, my least favorite in the class this year...it's a show set to a poem about Millennials...performed exclusively by Gen Zers. I know I wouldn't have wanted to perform a show about the plights of Gen X when I was in high school as a Millennial...sorry. It just seems like a tone deaf design choice. I don't believe the group is Finalist worthy, but stranger things have happened, and they'll be hungry to not be left out two years in a row.
Bellbrook (OH) -- 4th year in SW, made SW Finals in '17. Marching band needs no introduction; one of the best BOA A bands of all time. Terrific world guard is often the center point of the show the last few years, with a level of weapon difficulty never seen from any of their peers.
Bellbrook truly looks like a SW group this year...stunning movement skills and a really difficult equipment book. It's just....set to a poem about a dog dying. Ugh. Sorry. I watched it once and it was great; that was enough. I'll watch it again, on mute : ) The group is really finding their "sea legs" in this class and whether they make Finals this year or not, I expect them to steadily keep rising.
Marcus (TX) -- 4th year in SW, first trip to Dayton as a SW group. Marching band of course needs no introduction.
I really, REALLY am impressed with Marcus. After getting promoted and then three seasons of looking like a sort-of-SW group, they're there this year. Tons and tons of depth in the design, nonstop movement demand, terrific staging, and an audience-friendly show to boot. I have a hunch this show is going to score much higher than it's seeding score belies. I don't know if it can make it all the way to Finals in this crowded field, but I would be thrilled if it did, and stranger things have happened. One thing that clearly pervades every aspect of Marcus's program: slow, calculated, & steady growth. And I will applaud that any day.
-------- 20th - 21st Grouping, or 1 Group in Semis, 1 Group Left Behind in Prelims --------
North Syracuse Central -- 2nd year in SW, marching band is top 5 in NY. I can't for the life of me figure out why WGI calls (and has always called) this group North Syracuse Central; the high school is Cicero-North Syracuse. The district is North Syracuse Central, but there's only one high school in the district, so...? Just a curious oddity. They call themselves Northstars Winterguard, further compounding the confusion.
This group is still trying to navigate their new class, and, in my mind, is a testament that WGI shouldn't bump on final placement, but by judging recommendation...NSC had been an SO Finalist a number of times, and then shot up to 3rd with a great Finals performance in 2017, and were therefore bumped for the next year (top 3 get bumped), despite the fact that they hadn't been top 3 in Semis or Prelims. So, one good performance forced them up into a class that they didn't seem too ready for. They seem much more up to the challenge this year, but the staff clearly hasn't figured out how to design to SW sheets yet...lots of difficult work, but hardly any focal point throughout the show, and lots of meandering movement that doesn't seem to lead to much. Despite that, there are some REALLY great moments in this show, and it's worth catching.
Plymouth-Canton (MI) -- 1st year in SW, marching band needs no introduction.
I love love love love LOVE PCEP's Britney show this year. Talk about entertaining. Unfortunately, the staff forgot to write an equipment book...despite a giant guard of 28, no more than 16 members at a time are ever on a piece of equipment, and usually much less than that (for example, the show REALLY hinges on 5 featured rifle performers). What's even more odd is that PCEP's last two years at the top of SO Class highlighted them as the best weapon handlers in the class. Ah well, I have no complaints....I just enjoy watching this show!! I would like for them to move on to Semis, but man they drew a rough Prelims slot after Stoneman Douglas.
-------- 22nd --------
Stockdale (CA) -- 2nd year in SW, although they were first out of SW Finals last year. Marching band is similar to El Dorado, no BOA or specific CA circuit competition, just local contests.
Another case of a good guard handed a bit of a dud of a show. Undeveloped ideas, and almost a startling lack of forward motion in the design....a lot of times the background work to whatever feature is just stationary, bizarrely slow flag work. You can tell the kids don't buy into what they're performing and therefore don't sell it. Despite that, some REALLY strong featured rifle performers.
-------- Rounding It Out --------
Claudia Taylor Johnson (TX) -- Legit no idea. They haven't been on a webcast yet this year. Didn't attend Dayton last year, but won WGI Southwest over Bowie, TW, & Marcus. 2 time SW Finalist. Multiple time WGI SO Finalist. I have no idea what's up with them or why they're scoring in the gutter this year. Probably the group I'm the most curious to see tomorrow.
Greenfield-Central (IN) -- 3rd year in SW, Finalist in '17. 10 years or so of SO Finals before that. Marching band is quickly rising in Indiana's Class B, also made GN Semis this year on class (AA). Excellent group. Greenfield's guard is a terrific unit this year....just a little misclassified. They're only about 14 members, and the show would honestly fare a lot better (and could be quite successful) in SO. Strong performances from every member, just not the demand & layering that judges are looking for on SW sheets.
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Post by Jake W. on Apr 4, 2019 1:25:22 GMT -6
Oh my god I thought I would have to break that post up. It's dangerous knowing I'm free to post something of that length.
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Post by Jake W. on Apr 4, 2019 1:35:01 GMT -6
As much as I love SW, SO is always entertaining as well --- I'm catching Semis & Finals of SO this year, after being unable to catch anything other than SO Finals the last few years. I won't hit anyone outside of the top, but the top is VERY interesting this year:
Arvin (CA) --- Truly never heard of this group until this year, but Flo has a good amount of material (search Arvin under their videos). Their director is extremely inspiring, and clearly knows how to get the best out of his kids. I know nothing of their marching band other than what I've YouTubed. Similar to El Dorado & Stockdale, they appear to prefer local contests over participation in circuits. Arvin appears to be a small farm town in central CA with a majority Hispanic population. I imagine they'll run away with the SO title this year...and I'd be thrilled with that. The staff truly seems to have figured out how to make their group click on a meta level and sizzle with energy at every performance.
Fishers (IN) --- Good for them. Honestly, they're the next big group from Indiana, and I see no reason why their guard shouldn't be leading that rise to the upper echelons of our activity(ies).
McNeil (TX) & Dripping Springs (TX) --- SUPER impressed with both of these shows at the Southwest Regional. I don't know if either group will be able to medal...it will be close...but I sure hope so. Outstanding shows, outstanding units, and with Duffey moving from Hendrickson to Drip, I can't imagine it's long before Dripping Springs skyrockets through the Texas ranks. The guard is the first step.
East Coweta (GA) --- I actually haven't been able to catch them yet! I'm really excited to see the group leading the Southeast this year.
Oviedo has a REALLY fun show with tons of aggressive, fast-paced work, and could easily grab a medal spot.
Coweta, Ben Davis, Marvin Ridge, Seminole are all WGI warhorses and I expect them to shine this weekend. With 15 guards in SO Finals this year, this is quite the top half....some years have been disappointing in SO, some have been on fire...and this is certainly one that's on fire. There are some GREAT groups fighting for the top of this class this season!
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Post by LeanderMomma on Apr 4, 2019 5:56:18 GMT -6
Oh my god I thought I would have to break that post up. It's dangerous knowing I'm free to post something of that length. Ha ha ha! It was awesome Jake! Thank you!!! |
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Post by LeanderMomma on Apr 4, 2019 9:40:19 GMT -6
Carmel is my go to group, mostly because I respect the hell out of what Rosie Queen has done with that program in the last 10 years and how her writing has influenced everything we see on the field at the scholastic level in the fall. Brilliant, brilliant woman. Despite that, this is the second year in a row that I'm not thrilled with their winter design, but they'll still end up 2nd - 4th. They've been top 3 since 2010, and despite it not being my favorite production of their's, I want to see this trendsetting guard medal for the 10th year in a row. -=-=-=-=-=-=- Jake, Carmel was phenomenal. I just can't get over how good they are. And of course I can't wait to watch Avon again. I've seen them several times this season, but can't wait to see them now that everything is polished. But Carmel just now.....wow. |
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Post by LeanderMomma on Apr 4, 2019 9:50:46 GMT -6
Shenendehowa (NY) --- Third year in SW Class, SW Finalist the last 2. Shenendehowa seems to be young this year; after shooting through the ranks in SW Class the last two years, they seem to have cooled this year, and are a bit smaller. Still a neat show, if not a bit underwhelming following the previous few. This group really has layered in a ton of World Class work throughout the season, as opposed to starting dirty and cleaning; a very unique approach, and I'm excited to see where the design ended up. **Fun fact about Shenendehowa: they have no marching band, nor have they ever. Zero. And it's a pretty historical guard program, very active in WGI throughout the last two decades. After doing a bit of research, it appears the three winter guards come together to form their 70 memberish Fall Guard, and that's the only thing that performs at football games, of which there are videos on YouTube. No idea how a 3-tiered WGI guard program got started here, but somehow it did!** ************* Shenendehowa just now....let's just say ShenendeWOWZA!!!!!!! Oh my goodness that was phenomenal. You guys have to watch this stuff this weekend. They are surely making finals with that masterpiece. And so fun! It's a super dynamic amphibian show of all things. So colorful and the props are so theatrical and realistic. And the equipment work...like I said...WOWZA!!!!! That one is not to be missed! (Yes I am watching at work. Good thing I'm the boss!  ) |
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Post by Jake W. on Apr 4, 2019 10:12:30 GMT -6
Agreed!!!! I've got Carmel & CG leading right now, both were phenomenal and could easily end up as the #2 & #3 guards on Saturday. Despite the fact that this isn't my favorite Carmel show ever, they've REALLY cleaned it up and pulled out all the stops. It's a beautiful program. I think what impresses me so much about CG is their attention to detail; for example, there's 5 flags performing a lengthy routine towards the beginning of the show while lots of individual weapon features happen. The individual weapon features are of course jaw dropping, but that flag work meant to support the weapon work is crystal clean, absolutely perfect.
Miamisburg had a rough run, but wow what a show. They've added a whole double saber feature in the middle (it was just one performer before). I've got them in clear 3rd for this round.
Flanagan in clear fourth. Again, this would be great for any guard; it just lacks the traditional Flanagan sparkle & clarity. BUT, the show has grown immensely since WGI Southeast and the design & intent is drastically clearer now.
I've got Shen as the clear 5th in this round. SPECTACULAR. And only 15 members!!!! I can't believe they put so much layering into that show with about half of the members that the top guards have. Crystal clean work, a famous Shen flag feature at the end, and the most in-character performers yet. Amazingly impressive.
I've got Warren in a 6th. Rough run, but a terrific show. It takes a while to get cooking, but the ending really sizzles.
Bellbrook was a stunning surprise. That's the best I've ever seen that group in their 4 years in SW Class. They've landed themselves squarely on the bubble for Finals, and I have them in 7th for the round. Such an elegant & graceful group that performed with a level of maturity MUCH higher than their seeding score would imply. I was absolutely floored by Bellbrook's performance skills today.
El Dorado has cleaned up nicely and could still make Finals, although I have them trailing Bellbrook by 1 - 2 points at the moment.
I don't believe Arcadia will be in the Finals fight, although they gave a great performance today.
North Syracuse Central was fine, just looked a bit out of place in the class. CTJ was MUCH better than I thought they'd be, a very clean group, although the design lacked the detail of a SW group and the performance didn't have the nuance from years past. To me, they looked like a clean, outstanding SO Finalist group, with one SW level featured performer. A respectable showing nonetheless --- I have them above Stockdale & North Syracuse Central.
Right now, I imagine North Syracuse, Stockdale, CTJ, and then Greenfield from this round will most likely be the 4 that get caught up in Prelims and don't move on, but we'll see.
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Post by LeanderMomma on Apr 4, 2019 10:46:08 GMT -6
Stoneman Douglas (FL) --- Fifth year in SW, among the best weapon handlers in the class. Marching band is one of FL's best and is finally breaking into BOA. Stoneman Douglas has a CRAZY difficult show this year and started rough, but scored much higher at the WGI Southeast Power Regional. I get why its not scoring higher --- the design isn't big on depth or simultaneous demand compared to their peers --- but if you're looking for tricks & sky high tosses, this is the group to watch. Tons of old school unison work. Love this group. I'm curious to see how it's received in Dayton...this one could rise in the ranks or fall quickly based on judges' tastes. *********** That was phenomenal just now SD!!!!! |
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Post by LeanderMomma on Apr 4, 2019 11:39:22 GMT -6
-------- Clear Frontrunner -------- Avon (IN) -- Two time ('09, '18) WGI SW Champion, SW Class for 15+ years. No need to explain the marching side of things. No one will touch them this season, and I fully anticipate the group to hit a 98 (not done by the SW champion since James Logan's record-setting years in the 00s), maybe even setting a high score record. They're that good this year. I'd place money on the notion that no guard will be able to overtake them in even a sub caption this weekend in any of the three rounds. If you're watching ANY scholastic guard on Flo or live this weekend, make it Avon. It's unreal what they're getting out of these kids this year. ------------------------------------- You got that right. NO ONE is touching that. Just like last winter WGI season, Avon is undoubtedly the World Champions!! Oh my goodness, those kids must toss equipment in their SLEEP to be so good. And their dance ability is just remarkable. Just insane. |
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Post by Jake W. on Apr 4, 2019 12:33:52 GMT -6
WOW!!!! I can't believe how many SW groups brought their A games to Dayton this year!!!!
Avon had what I imagine they would refer to as a rough run...quite droopy. Despite that, I believe they'll still top 95. When this show locks in on Saturday night, as Avon reliably does, I truly think they could set a record high score with this production. Unbelievable.
I've got West Broward in second for this round, although I wouldn't be surprised if Trumbull toppled them, although I think West Broward will remain on top of Trumbull with a cleaner run. Both groups are just outstanding. Trumbull is the epitome of beauty & grace with that elegant seated flag feature; West Broward is raw & untethered and emotional. I will say based on Round 1 scores, Carmel's medal isn't safe --- either Trumbull or West Broward could knock them out. It would be West Broward's first medal. Then again, as I mentioned in my novel earlier, if Carmel hangs onto 3rd, it will be their 10th medal in a row in SW class. Amazing consistency.
Norwin in a solid 4th for this round, potentially even breaking 90 (at least 89). I initially grouped them with Flanagan, but it looks like they'll shake out a good 2 - 3 points above Flanagan, and why shouldn't they?!?! Those girls know how to captivate an audience. Norwin has always been good, but I have no idea where this group came from this year. Their highest finish is ninth (twice) in SW; as of now, it's impossible for me to imagine anyone will be able to knock them out of 7th. What a talented group they've got this year!
I've got Lyman & Ayala in a similar boat. Both incredible groups, with Lyman the new star --- the fact that they're most likely going to finish top 10 their first year in SW is mind-boggling. A rare feat. Ayala still slightly shakier than I'd like, but cleaned overall quite nicely.
I'm VERY interested to see where the judges land Stoneman. A rock solid run, and some of the best weapon handlers of the day, but not a ton of simultaneous demand (i.e., sky high tosses but not much choreography below them, etc). The show isn't big on depth -- in either writing or conceptually -- but I'm nuts about their performance levels. Sometimes you just need a good old-fashioned throw your weapons to the ceiling group!
I've got Northview in a clear 8th for the round, and probably around an 82 - 83, or solidly in Finals.
TW was pleasantly surprising today!!!! They've really cleaned up since WGI Southwest three weeks ago. Give a slightly tighter performance and that 15th spot for Finals is their's! I would really like to see that; this group has come a long way and deserves it.
PCEP, similar to Stoneman in my eyes...how will the judges view this?! A lightning rod of entertainment for sure; I love everything about the music and set designs, not to mention the bare color schemes & backgrounds. It's all top notch. But, again, outside of the sheer entertainment...why do so many members of their guard spend so much time without a single piece of equipment in their hands? When they do, it's spectacular! Just more of that, please! It was all the more highlighted going after Stoneman, whose weapon handling was out of this world. Then again, PCEP's movement demand looked quite good compared to Stoneman's shallow movement demand...so who knows. Right now I have them in 9th for the round, at about an 81.
Marcus was another pleasant showing! Clearly a SW-level guard. Absolutely deserves to be in this class. I've got them at 80-81; probably not pushing for Finals, but if scores pan out correctly, safely sailing into Semis.
Greenfield had a respectable last show, and will round out the 4 guards not moving on. I would like to see them at least hit a 75. Again, it was a really solid performance; they're a great group that performed their show cleanly & emotionally...it just wasn't quite SW levels of demand. Would have been pushing for Finals in SO.
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Post by LeanderMomma on Apr 4, 2019 15:06:03 GMT -6
Thanks so much for your input Jake W.. I agree with you that Avon had a bit of a rough run (FOR THEM!) and it will probably only get better from here on out. Maybe their director told them to drop a rifle or two in prelims just to keep it interesting.  |
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Post by paddy on Apr 5, 2019 6:15:00 GMT -6
Greenfield had a respectable last show, and will round out the 4 guards not moving on. I would like to see them at least hit a 75. Again, it was a really solid performance; they're a great group that performed their show cleanly & emotionally...it just wasn't quite SW levels of demand. Would have been pushing for Finals in SO. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was their best run of the year and scored a 76. After their great run in SO and promotion, they just haven't had the depth of numbers or talent to keep up. However, given their results the last year (not breaking 60 in competition in 2018 and scoring a 57.6 at WGI Indy in mid-February) the fact that they redesigned the show and scored a 76 6 weeks later is huge for them. They have a very talented class of sophomores that are their core group of talent and a strong class of eighth and ninth grade kids coming up. Some seasoning of their talent and their design team will help them moving forward. I'm not sure they will petition to reclassify. |
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Post by Jake W. on Apr 5, 2019 7:07:22 GMT -6
It was their best run of the year and scored a 76. After their great run in SO and promotion, they just haven't had the depth of numbers or talent to keep up. However, given their results the last year (not breaking 60 in competition in 2018 and scoring a 57.6 at WGI Indy in mid-February) the fact that they redesigned the show and scored a 76 6 weeks later is huge for them. They have a very talented class of sophomores that are their core group of talent and a strong class of eighth and ninth grade kids coming up. Some seasoning of their talent and their design team will help them moving forward. I'm not sure they will petition to reclassify. And, why not stay in SW?? If they've got talent quickly moving up the pipeline, then great! I'll note too that they DID make SW Finals their first year in the class three seasons ago (placing an impressive 11th). And they were only 1.3 behind the next guard up in Prelims yesterday...much, MUCH stronger than their initial scores throughout the season foreshadowed. |
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Post by paddy on Apr 5, 2019 8:10:54 GMT -6
And, why not stay in SW?? If they've got talent quickly moving up the pipeline, then great! I'll note too that they DID make SW Finals their first year in the class three seasons ago (placing an impressive 11th). And they were only 1.3 behind the next guard up in Prelims yesterday...much, MUCH stronger than their initial scores throughout the season foreshadowed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ I don't think they should. Just a comment directed at the implication that they would be more competitive in Open. I think they will be in the hunt for a finals spot next year and their numbers look to be growing. |
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Post by WoodlandsMom4ever on Apr 5, 2019 13:10:02 GMT -6
Just heard that TWHS made finals!!! To say we are ecstatic for these kids is an understatement. So much hard work to push through to get to finals.
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Post by WoodlandsMom4ever on Apr 5, 2019 13:12:33 GMT -6
and I LOVE reading your input on all the guards... I'm so new at all of this... just absorbing others opinions.
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Post by LeanderMomma on Apr 6, 2019 10:22:57 GMT -6
Seeing some gorgeous stuff in Open Class this morning. Next time Leander goes to Worlds, Iβm there!
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Post by LeanderMomma on Apr 6, 2019 10:48:24 GMT -6
You can always count on an Indy area group to have super strange music. (Ben Davis this year). I donβt get it. π€ Fabulous guard work tho!
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Post by Jake W. on Apr 6, 2019 11:11:14 GMT -6
You can always count on an Indy area group to have super strange music. (Ben Davis this year). I donβt get it. π€ Fabulous guard work tho! Super strange indeed : ) Frankly, I loved it! But I'll fault no one for finding it too bizarre! I actually think Ben Davis is to the point where they're handling their design & performance levels more like a SW group...so much layering going on. As long as they've got the talent next year, I could see them self-promoting like Bowie did and finding a fair amount of success. Really enjoying the rest of SO Finals. McNeil has such a gorgeous show, and a much better run than Semis. Little Elm came out of nowhere...the show isn't quite my cup of tea (a bit too slow-paced), but WOW they're incredible...talk about cleaning up at the end of the season. I don't think anyone would have guessed they'd land this high. And Marvin Ridge with NINE members!!!! Yet somehow they managed to layer in tons of work. Talk about high levels of individual responsibility.... I also thought Choctaw, Seminole, & East Coweta gave stunningly beautiful performances! |
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Post by Jake W. on Apr 6, 2019 11:47:41 GMT -6
Oviedo, unfortunately, had a run that wasn't nearly as "locked in" as yesterday. That show is so intense & primitive that an "off" performance unfortunately made it seem quite flat. But, hey, part of competing at this level is consistency and being able to lay down the chips when said chips are required.
On the other hand, DRIPPING SPRINGS!! Legitimately almost perfect. Such a tight, crystal clean run. I thought their Semis performance yesterday was spectacular and worried they pulled out the best one too soon...nope. Not even a chance. Immediately texted them as fan favorite...such a unique show that showcases emotions rarely seen in WGI...despair, barrenness, almost a detached forlornness. Seriously loved everything about Dripping Springs this year. The sky is the limit for this group.
And on that note, Arvin upped the bar even more following that amazing Dripping Springs performance. Wow. The absolutely epitome of "less is more". Stark floor, no props, simply nuanced & perfected equipment work with EVERY SINGLE DETAIL accounted for. Just mind-boggling. Every member laser-focused & intense. And an emotion-packed performance to boot!
AND THEN FISHERS! Wow, what an incredible top end of SO Class this year. I have zero problem with either Arvin or Fishers winning...in fact, I can't imagine having to rank either worthy champion. Dripping Springs has that bronze medal on lock, although I wouldn't complain at all if they placed even higher than that.
I think I'd like to see some shifting in the Ben Davis/McNeil/Little Elm/Oviedo group; Oviedo went into Finals seeded on the top of those 4, but to my eyes had by far the weakest performance, and I would like the other 3 groups' strong performances to be recognized.
Oh and I forgot to mention Milford earlier...stunningly beautiful show. Just exemplary writing that any guard director should use as an example of an engaging, shimmeringly beautiful/darker show.
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