The team earned a gold medal at the New England Scholastic Band Association 

By Rory White, STAFF WRITER

SANFORD, ME – The Sanford High School Winter Guard took first place at their competition at Dover High School (Dover, N.H.) on Sunday, March 10. Their win was presented by the New England Scholastic Band Association (NESBA).

The coaches, Drew Halpin Desmarais, Eric Desmarais, Anna Yuhas and Claire Anderson, designed the Winter Guard’s 2024 show, titled “Car Wash.” Four schools make up the guard; Noble, Sanford, Massabesic and Kennebunk. 

“There’s a lot of energy and excitement this year and I think the show has a lot of fun to share with people who watch it,” Halpin Desmarais said. 

The captain this year is Erin McNeilly from Kennebunk High School. 

“I’m so proud- getting to see the hard work weeks pay off in the end, and seeing the smiles on people’s faces is worth all the hard work,” McNeilly expressed. 

The team is very excited about their win and future competitions. 

“It’s amazing to be with a team that cares about each other,” said Wren Trivilino, Sanford High School freshman. 

Winter Guard is a performance based on military ceremonies. The season lasts for around five and a half months. Common equipment includes a swing flag, a long and big flag on a small pole, a sabre, a sword, a rifle, a gun, and a normal flag.