CWEA is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 Education Summit! Join us on Saturday, November 22nd, at Northwestern High School in Rock Hill, SC, for a full day of learning, growth, and connection.

For Students

Presented by Etude Winter Guard and Civitas Independent, the Education Summit features Spin and Percussion Clinics designed to help performers expand their skills in a hands-on learning environment. Students will have the opportunity to work directly with the 2026 cast and staff of Etude and Civitas for just $30 per student (lunch included).

👕 Education Summit T-shirts will also be available for pre-order at $20 each through the registration link.

For Directors & Instructors

CWEA is excited to offer Professional Development sessions—free of charge—for all CWEA Directors and Instructors at the 2025 Education Summit. These sessions are designed to support your growth, provide fresh insights, and help strengthen your programs.

To help us plan effectively, we ask that you complete the registration form located on the Education Summit webpage. If you have staff members attending, please ensure that each person fills out a separate form so we can prepare accordingly.

✨ Ready to join us? Registration is open now at the Education Summit page on our website.

We look forward to seeing you in Rock Hill this November for an exciting and inspiring day!

Monday Sessions 3/10/2025:

Welcome to the HOME STRETCH - for the CWEA Competitive Season! It has been an incredible year so far - and it’s time to savor all the remaining moments you have with your program. Oh, and time to GET. TO. WORK.

In this email, the goal is to give you information to get everyone locked in for these last few weeks that can also carry over into WGI Season for those of you going to World Championships.

If there is a topic you’d love more information about, email your ideas to [email protected] to get it covered.

All the best,

Jen Barton

CWEA Education Coordinator

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PHYSICAL TRAINING

These last grueling weeks of the season can take a toll on both the body and the mind. If your program has not been taking time to cool down and stretch, it is highly encouraged to have a dedicated time for this process. Whether 5 or 15 minutes, cool down and stretch at the end of a long rehearsal or camp day is crucial for recovery. We have two end-of-session routines for you, one 15 minutes and one at 5 minutes - these are on YouTube, so you can send out to your students for at-home use as well. Nothing beats a great wind-down after a productive day - staff included:

15-Min Cool Down and Stretch

5-Min Cool Down and Stretch

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PERFORMANCE ANXIETY - Content by Katie Greene Kegley

As the stakes grow towards the end of the season, you may see a shift in your performers’ level of confidence before walking on the floor. Paired with the mindfulness journals, we have a great video for you that can help support and care for your performers’ nerves.

AIA Color Guard Judge Katie Greene Kegley has used her background and training to put together an instructional video to help address some helpful hints in guiding your performers through the inevitable anxiety that accompanies performing in front of a large audience. You can access this great resource here.

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WHAT DO THESE NUMBERS MEAN?? - Content by WGI Judge Josh Potter (AIA Education Coordinator)

Over the last few weeks, scores may have been consistent for your team, and they may have been volatile. Before digging too deep into the story of the numbers, make sure you spend some time looking at the back of the sheets to know the criteria and progression through the boxes. Knowing where a particular subcaption lands in the box and box thirds can give you a pretty targeted idea of where your team has strengths and weaknesses. Seeing the spreads can also help inform you.

This article by Josh Potter dives deep into the story of NUMBERS - check out the PDF below to go deeper into the story a recap can tell you about your team and their ranking and rating.

The Story of Numbers.pdf

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IT’S GAME TIME - Content by Jen Barton, CWEA Education Coordinator

The number of weeks left is down to ONE HAND - gulp! You’ve had multiple performances and a LOT of feedback from judges, overview judges, and even from your own video study. Now is the time to put on a few different hats to push your competitive season across the finish line. Let’s talk about it:

EDITOR - The Editor hat is the one that you should use CAREFULLY. Making changes should be done very minimally - know your group and how long it takes something to gel together and move from understand to demonstrate. Does that phrase need to change, or does it just need to be better?
1. EXCEPTION: Look at every single transition, equipment changes, set changes, exits and entrances. These moments are often the deciding factor, competitively. In these scenarios, I consider these ENHANCEMENTS, not CHANGES.
CRITIC - The Critic hat often goes hand in hand with Editor. Think and consider carefully the segments of your show - and use the framework of the sheets. The Critic hat is the one that will help you organize your rehearsal/class/training time with priority and hierarchy.
1. The Critic will help you choose what to continue digging into and what to let go. Is it worth it to continue working on this? I have gotten varying judge feedback - what is my intention, and can I make it clearer?
2. The Critic will help you see another level deeper - what if we changed facings? What if that ripple went the other way? What if we added musical shaping? What if we crafted the entrance for the snares from the prop?
CLARITY - The Clarity hat should be your anthem (forgive me for the mixed metaphor there….). Clarity relates to achievement and excellence - universal concepts for all classes in all divisions. Here are some considerations:
1. STAGING - one of the most important topics for you to insist upon clarity is staging. Do visual-only reps (color guard - hold your equipment at strip/tuck and just do the body/drill responsibilities).
2. PATHWAYS - applies to staging (do people cross pathways? Does the flow make sense? Do entrances and exits all hold good space) as well as color guard equipment carving pathways.
  1. Clean the body first.
  2. Stand in the end zones and the corners - get your eyes off the center of the floor. If you have more staff than just you, video the runs from these locations, or set up phones/tables/cameras to have multiple views from the same run through.
3. TIMING - how are you insisting your performers spin/play/move together? What are the concepts that are encouraging them to gel in time? How crazy are their eyes and do they have the information as they change orientation on how to maintain timing (as you prep for this toss, Emily can’t see anyone - direct your attention down to Emily and make your flag Emily’s flag; Jackson is the closest to the dot on this next move, more likely to be accurate - as the form settles, guide to Jackson, etc.)
4. PRODUCTION - clarity of intent, storytelling, contour/journey, and energy must be CLEAR.

Next - how much time do you have? This is the key factor. Hopefully you have a To-Do List - one that has been well-loved throughout the season - maybe it’s a living doc that you and your staff work on together or it’s something that you process through and disseminate out to your stakeholders. Either way - it’s decision time (Critic Hat).

Work to assign an ideal time frame to complete each task on your To-Do List.
Assign a priority to each item on your To-Do List.
1. Time Frame and Priority will assist you in deciding what and when you are tackling.
2. Don’t forget technique and training!
Count all the rehearsal, class, and camp time from here to the end - INCLUDING SHOW DAYS.
Make some type of graph or spreadsheet that has these events and the time frame.
1. Don’t forget normal set up, tear down, stretch/cool down/physical training
2. Don’t forget rehearsing show-style set up and tear down!
3. Don’t forget the ACTUAL time it takes to do a run through (or two!)
Plan out your tasks within your time limit. Consider show days and your routine and procedures.
1. Your tasks will take longer than you think - consider this. Plan a task, and have a back-up task that is quick and short
2. If you have multiple staff members, attack multiple tasks at the same time - how can you leverage divide and conquer?
3. Consider performance runs, show and tells, section runs, solo runs, etc. so performers can see their peers, other sections, and other components of the show and celebrate successes.
Be prepared to pivot and adjust as needed. Plan for success, prepare to be flexible.
Commit to excellence and consistency.
GET. TO. WORK.

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We cannot wait to see how you all close out the season - we are rooting for and cheering for you ALL to end the season as strongly as possible, achieving all of your goals and enjoying incredible performances.

Celebrate successes, enjoy the process, and commit to the work. Enjoy being amazing. Savor this incredible experience we all share. This is when you enjoy the magic of what we do. Every day is a new chance to be extraordinary - don’t waste any time being ordinary, friends! Time to SHINE!

See you on the floor, Championships style, VERY SOON! Can’t wait!

Sunday Sessions 2/16/2025:

HAPPY SUNDAY!

Okay friends - Color Guard division, you are 5 weeks from Championships, and Percussion/Winds division, you are 7 weeks from Championships. Depending on when you kicked off your winter season, we are past the halfway point of the season. Time is of the essence, and it is imperative that you make the most of your time - both in rehearsal and in class (if you are a group that has class periods available for instruction).

Timing requirements went into effect this weekend, so if your show is not finished that is the priority. Always remember to include training and technique in your lesson plan, no matter the urgency. Training will help the creative and learning process move faster - never skip training!

The season is long and the days are short - make the most of your time by planning for success. We hope this week’s email will give you some more tools on your journey.

If there is a topic you’d love more information about, email your ideas to [email protected] to get it covered.

All the best,

Jen Barton

CWEA Education Coordinator

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PHYSICAL TRAINING - Content by Dr. Kellie Simerly

I am not going to lie - I am not performing (and haven’t for a LONG TIME) but MY knees are achy at this point of the season. I am confident that your performers have some achy knees as well!

Dr. Simerly has put together a PDF on strength training for Happy Knees for your performers. Check it out in the attached PDF.

Happy Knees.pdf

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WINDS CORNER - Content by David Shives, Catawba Ridge HS

Mr. Shives has provided you with a sample show day itinerary, complete with a timeline, a plan for entering the gym, and suggestions to maximize critique. For more information, take a deeper dive in the PDF below.

Winds The Show Day.pdf

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PERCUSSION CORNER - Content by Ryan Hall, Clover HS

Need a step by step, logistical guide for your daily process - or for a show day? Here is a great compilation of reminders as well as items that may not be on your list. Take advantage of this thorough plan from Clover HS’s Ryan Hall - learn more from the PDF below.

Maximize Efficiency.pdf

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COLOR GUARD CORNER - Content by Phillip Cohen, Byrnes HS

Initiation - how you begin, start, kick things off. All things require a start, and Mr. Cohen has some timely tips on all things initiation - check out the attached video for a short class on INITIATION. (Apologies for the crazy file name - with the file transfer I am unable to edit the name - thanks for your understanding!)

Color Guard Corner Video

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MINDFULNESS AND FOCUS - Content created by Andrew Elkins, Powdersville HS + Etude

There’s a great Powerpoint linked HERE with more information about mindfulness Journals for your students - this fantastic clinic was presented at the CWEA Summit in November - highly recommend checking this out if you want your performers to be calm, cool, and confident for 2025.

Here is your journal prompt for this week - focusing on performance improvement:

Think about a time when you had a really successful performance. This performance may have been this season in 2025 or it may have been a performance in the past.

What are some key factors that contributed to that success?

Consider timing - how much time did you have to rehearse, get ready, warmup, etc.
Consider your warmup/rotation process - did you have more time on your own or more with the group? Was the warmup area large or small? What was your comfortability factor?

Consider both what happens during rehearsal and what you do outside of practice. Are there specific habits, routines, or preparations that help you feel more confident and prepared for a show?

Is it important for you to do things on your own?
Does what you practice in your own, or free time help support performance readiness?
How much does technique warmup or training play a part in a successful show prep for you?

How can you apply these strategies to improve your future performances?

You may or may not have control over your show-day preparation, especially if you are on a scholastic team. Consider how you can make a short, personal checklist of items you need in warmup.
How can you look at a full week to prepare for a show, not just the rotation period?
What can you seek help or support on from your teammates or coaches/instructors?

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MID SEASON UPDATE - Content by Jen Barton, CWEA Education Coordinator

You are now at the point where the show is probably/hopefully on the floor, and you have received feedback from at least one judging panel. This is a critical point in the season where you have a lot of decisions to make - let’s game them out to see what fits best for you and your team.

CREATIVE NEEDS:
1. Your show may not be done - THIS IS THE PRIORITY. Get the show done, friends.
2. You may need to do re-writes or adjustments - take these choices seriously and consider the estimated time to make these changes. Can you make small moves with big dividends? Does it actually need to be changed - or does it need cleaning. Listen to your tapes carefully - the word opportunity indicates it needs cleaning.
3. If you are telling a story of some form or fashion - ensure that it is clear and makes sense. Does the eye move where it needs to move? Do I see what you want me to see? Is there a clear focus throughout?
CHANGES (in brief):
1. Do parts need to be changed or do they need to be cleaned?
2. Do you have holes that are temporary (do not make changes) or holes that are permanent (make smart adjustments to ensure balance and adherence to design principles)?
3. COLOR GUARD: Would taking off a rotation of a toss, or eliminating a challenging body responsibility ensure a greater level of more consistent success? Achievement and excellence is the way.
4. ....would taking 5-15 bpm off your soundtrack tempo help achievement? If you are in this boat and don't know what to do - send me an email and we can help.
5. Will texturing, layering, sequencing help a moment that just isn't cleaning up? You have tools at your disposal to layer and make small changes for big dividends.
STAMINA AND CONSISTENCY:
1. Stamina and consistency can be a deciding factor - can your performers make it through the show and not just survive, but thrive?
2. COLOR GUARD: Play the percentage game. Take a section or a toss 10 times - be picky. Count the number of successful reps out of the 10 and that is your percentage. If you are not able to have a 80% or higher, consider making changes.
3. ALL DIVISIONS: Identify the most difficult portions of your show (ideally 30 seconds or less). Create a rehearsal routine where you do 5 reps of these 30 seconds back to back, with 10 seconds in between. Choose 3-5 segments - allowing 45-60 seconds as you switch segments (perc and winds may need longer time between to change equipment).
  1. Chunk #1 - Rep 1 / 10 seconds / Rep 2 / 10 seconds / Rep 3 / 10 seconds / Rep 4 / 10 seconds Rep 5
  2. 45-60 seconds rest and reset (P/W may need more)
  3. Chunk #2 - Rep 1 / 10 seconds / Rep 2 / 10 seconds / Rep 3 / 10 seconds / Rep 4 / 10 seconds Rep 5
  4. 45-60 seconds rest and reset (P/W may need more)
  5. Chunk #3 - Rep 1 / 10 seconds / Rep 2 / 10 seconds / Rep 3 / 10 seconds / Rep 4 / 10 seconds Rep 5
  6. NOTE: It also may be worthwhile to do section-focused chunks so students can perform for each other - do this as much as you can if you are getting commentary about performer emotion, connection, or believability.
TRAINING AND TECHNIQUE:
1. Include training and technique at every single rehearsal.
2. Ideally, you should be adjusting the ratio of training to rehearsing down from the beginning of the season - at the starting phases, training should be the vast majority of rehearsal. Now, the ratio is maybe flipped the other way.
3. As much as you may want to dig into edits or changes or the show - training will save you every single day. Investing in that time will only pay off down the road and contribute to growth and development in your program.
PERFORMANCE:
1. It seems a little wild to be talking about how your performers are bringing the show to life - but this is the BEST time to invest in this process. In all divisions, the performers’ believability, engagement with the audience (read as: EYE CONTACT) and communication skills are VITAL. Do your performers understand their role in this relationship? Can they get out of their choreography, their notes, their staging - and EXPRESS their program role? Can they take the audience on a journey WITH them? These skills of engagement are critical.
2. Take time to discuss consummate performers - in your activity, in pop music, in dance, in public speaking, however and whatever you can find to use to inspire. Bring your show OFF the floor and into the LAP of the audience!
3. Friends and family performances, or opening the last run up to the families is a great way to put your students in the mindset of performance with nerves. Students must be given as many opportunities as possible to replicate the feeling, nerves, and emotions of a live performance in front of an audience to build comfortability in that process.

This is the FUN time of year - celebrate wins. Celebrate the kids. Celebrate the journey - the days are long, but the season is about to be really short. Savor each second - and plan for success.

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See you on the floor REALLY SOON!

Sunday Sessions 2/9/2025:

It’s Week #5 of 2025 - everyone has gone out and done the thing! And now it’s time to get locked in - it’s such an exciting time of year! From all of us at CWEA, we are cheering all of your teams on through this first debut series of events!

Use this Sunday to finalize your lesson plans, rehearsal schedule, to-do list, communications and logistics, and get as much rest as you can. It’s going to be a great week - stay focused! This message is STILL true for this upcoming weekend!

Ensure success by planning - you will be amazing, because you have planned it!

WGI has added a NEW Instructor Hub - check it out and use as needed.

If there is a topic you’d love more information about, email your ideas to [email protected] to get it covered.

All the best,

Jen Barton

CWEA Education Coordinator

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PHYSICAL TRAINING - Content by Dr. Kellie Simerly

The season is short - and it is SO long. Keep in mind that the physical training aspect is an investment in your performers’ physical health not only this season but in years to come. Dr. Simerly has some tips and tricks to keep your performers’ hips happy and healthy from 2025 and beyond.

Check out the PDF below for suggested hip strength and training exercises.

Happy Hips.pdf

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WINDS CORNER - Content by Beth Fabrizio

Winds division! We have some special content for you this week - key into your woodwinds with this exclusive content from nationally recognized educator, Beth Fabrizio!

Beth Fabrizio Video - 2.9.2025

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PERCUSSION CORNER - Content by Justin Brewer

Ready to get plugged in? Check out the PDF below for Electronics Tips from Mr. Brewer.

Electronic Tips.pdf

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PERFORMANCE READINESS

As your students prepare to perform in front of the public and in a competition setting - it is imperative that they are prepared for that venue and the energy that comes with it. Rehearsal is a routine and regular occurrence - if you are not able to perform for the public BEFORE your competitive debut, managing those emotions and energies is key to a successful performance.

NOTE: Rehearsal v. competition is an entirely new set of skills and readiness. Adrenaline and nerves come into play - and we are all in a scenario where control is of the utmost importance. What can you do to engage control when nerves are at their highest?

Conquering stage fright is a long-term process - exercising, eating well, avoid caffeine, and ensuring you get enough rest are key. However, those are high demands with young people! Caffeine is a food group for most. Here is a list of other actions you can take to alleviate stage fright and nerves for your performers:

ROUTINE - make sure you have an established routine. Whether it’s your warm up process, a chant or mantra, or a rhythmic breathing exercise to assist in grounding, a routine helps most of your performers prepare to do their best.
MINDFULNESS - using the suggested mindfulness journals is a great start, as well as using mindful meditation - either on the bus as individuals or as a group during your warmup routine. Follow THIS LINK to a 10 minute mindfulness meditation.
PREPARATION - the #1 key to managing nerves is to be PREPARED. Be clear about group and individual goals and expectations. Train at rehearsal to know precisely what will happen during the show. Visualize the dimensions of your competitive arena and exercise control over that space. Fear comes from the unknown - harness power and calm by being prepared.
BREATHE - Oxygen is nature’s calming agent. Practice quick, easy breathing patterns to regain control and calm in your most tense moments. HERE are some resources for deep breathing techniques.

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MINDFULNESS AND FOCUS - Content created by Andrew Elkins, Powdersville HS + Etude

There’s a great Powerpoint linked HERE with more information about mindfulness Journals for your students - this fantastic clinic was presented at the CWEA Summit in November - I highly recommend checking this out if you want your performers to be calm, cool, and confident for 2025.

Here is your journal prompt for this week - focusing on performance improvement:

Reflect on your first performance and write a response to the following questions:

1. Overall Performance: How did your first performance go? What moments felt the most successful?

2. Preparation & Success: What did you do before the performance that helped you feel confident and prepared?

3. Challenges & Growth: Were there any moments that didn’t go as planned? How did you handle them?

4. Looking Ahead: What are you most looking forward to in your next performance?

5. Improvement & Preparation: What steps can you take to be even more prepared next time?

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LOGISTICS 411 - Content by Jen Barton, CWEA Education Coordinator

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR INTERVAL TIME

Ensure that you understand the timing and procedure for competitive entry and exit. This information is found in the WGI Manual, available in Competition Suite under Resources. CWEA provides this information - make sure you access it!
Know the competitive flow -
- NORTHWESTERN FLOW
FOLDING YOUR FLOOR - folding your floor for performance readiness is VITAL to efficiency on performance entry. The biggest tip we can offer is to LABEL THE UNDERSIDE OF YOUR FLOOR CORNERS, so you have an orientation before you even start.
- Know where your entry point is - this is key to knowing how to fold your floor after your final, pre-competitive rehearsal.
- Whether horizontal or vertical, you will want the initial fold to finish with the farthest side on the TOP of your fold.
  - FAN FOLDING: position your students on the side of entry, and fan-fold from the nearest side so the farthest side is on top
  - HALF AND HALF FOLDING: students will begin the first, largest fold by picking up the opposite side of the floor from entry and folding it to the side of entry.
Getting the floor on your cart involves using OPPOSITION:
- FAN FOLDING: The cart will go on the opposite side of the floor from entry - if you enter from the back side, put your cart on the front side. As you fold, the door you enter from will be on top so you can pull off the cart at entry and use the cart to unfold the floor on the vertical or horizontal entry plane
- HALF AND HALF FOLDING: If you half-and-half fold onto the cart, you will have extra work to do no matter how you fold it - in this suggestion, put the cart at entry, so you can move the ENTIRE floor off the cart, then unfold from there. The bottom of the floor will be at your entry point and you can un-half from that point.
Know where the timelines are!
- If you are using JV, middle school, or other teams under your school’s umbrella, inform those students where the timeline is so they do not cross before the T&P judge cues you.
KNOW WHERE THE 50 IS AND TAKE TIME TO ALIGN YOUR FLOOR PROPERLY
- You should have the 50 marked on your floor. If you do not at this point, do it ASAP.
- DIRECTOR OR STAFF MEMBER: Stand at the marked 50 on the performance floor to assist in guiding the floor unfolding. Give a warning BEFORE the floor is at the 50 so you don’t waste time going back and forth.
- Give direction to make sure the floor is aligned properly - whether flat-front or on a different orientation, ensure this is correct before stepping away.
PRACTICE THIS PROCESS
- Nothing sets a team up for success more than having a process and procedure for unfolding a floor and setting up props/equipment - YOU MUST REHEARSE THIS PRIOR TO THE SHOW DAY. MAKE TIME TO REHEARSE THIS!
Prop/Equipment set up is VITAL to this process
- You may need to make assignments to get props and equipment set up.
  - EFFICIENCY IS KEY - if you have parents or staff helping with props, GET THEM IN ON FRIDAY to rehearse. Use a stopwatch. BE PREPARED.
  - COLOR GUARD: Make an efficient equipment set up plan. This may mean your performers don’t set their own equipment. They will be fine. Running around in the 1:30 before your show announcement does no favors. Teamwork makes the dream work!
LISTEN TO YOUR T&P JUDGE
- They are giving you a countdown. At this point, you should know how much time you need. Be aware. Be calm.
- Direct your performers with a calm, cool voice. REMEMBER: You model the behavior for your students. If you are calm, they are calm.
ONE LAST PIECE OF ADVICE:
- Please please please - unfold your floor as far back as possible, while remaining aware and cognizant of the safety boundaries. Local gyms may have limited space, but your program will be visualized better the further back your performance space is oriented. Know where the back safety boundary is and get as close as you can to that - further back is better!
- Judges want to see the first 5 feet of your show - make sure you prepare for this!
ENJOY THE SHOW! 🙂

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See you on the floor!

Sunday Sessions 1/26/2025:

It’s Week #4 of 2025 - many groups just successfully Premiered at White Knoll HS and this upcoming weekend brings Premiers at Dorman and Catawba Ridge - it’s such an exciting time of year! From all of us at CWEA, we are cheering all of your teams on through this first debut series of events!

Ensure success by planning - you will be amazing, because you have planned it!

If there is a topic you’d love more information about, email your ideas to [email protected] to get it covered.

All the best,

Jen Barton

CWEA Education Coordinator

—----------------------------------------------------------------

PHYSICAL TRAINING - Content by Dr. Kellie Simerly

Check out the PDF below for suggested hip strength and training exercises.

Happy Hips.pdf

—----------------------------------------------------------------

PERFORMANCE READINESS

ROUTINE - make sure you have an established routine. Whether it’s your warm up process, a chant or mantra, or a rhythmic breathing exercise to assist in grounding, a routine helps most of your performers prepare to do their best.
MINDFULNESS - using the suggested mindfulness journals is a great start, as well as using mindful meditation - either on the bus as individuals or as a group during your warmup routine. Follow THIS LINK to a 10 minute mindfulness meditation.
PREPARATION - the #1 key to managing nerves is to be PREPARED. Be clear about group and individual goals and expectations. Train at rehearsal to know precisely what will happen during the show. Visualize the dimensions of your competitive arena and exercise control over that space. Fear comes from the unknown - harness power and calm by being prepared.
BREATHE - Oxygen is nature’s calming agent. Practice quick, easy breathing patterns to regain control and calm in your most tense moments. HERE are some resources for deep breathing techniques.

—----------------------------------------------------------------

MINDFULNESS AND FOCUS - Content created by Andrew Elkins, Powdersville HS + Etude

There’s a great Powerpoint linked HERE with more information about Mindfulness Journals for your students - this fantastic clinic was presented at the CWEA Summit in November - highly recommend checking this out if you want your performers to be calm, cool, and confident for 2025.

Here is your journal prompt for this week - focusing on time management:

Take a moment to reflect on your process for getting show-ready. Think about your makeup, costume, and hairstyle. Write step-by-step instructions as if you’re guiding someone else through your routine. Include all the small details—how you prepare your skin for makeup, the products you use, and how you apply them, or how you section your hair to create your show hairstyle.
Then, ask yourself:
- Are there any parts of this routine where I feel rushed or disorganized?
- What could I prepare ahead of time (e.g., laying out my costume, packing my makeup bag) to make the process smoother?
- How can I ensure I’m double-checking every detail, like hairpins being secure, lipstick matching the team standard, or my costume fitting perfectly?
Finally, write a plan to improve your efficiency. Consider timing yourself during your next show prep to track where you can save time or reduce stress. The goal is to create a calm, confident routine that lets you step into performance mode with focus and ease.

—----------------------------------------------------------------

LOGISTICS 411 - Content by Jen Barton, CWEA Education Coordinator

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR INTERVAL TIME

Ensure that you understand the timing and procedure for competitive entry and exit. This information is found in the WGI Manual, available in Competition Suite under Resources. CWEA provides this information - make sure you access it!
Know the competitive flow -
- CATAWBA RIDGE FLOW
- DORMAN FLOW
FOLDING YOUR FLOOR - folding your floor for performance readiness is VITAL to efficiency on performance entry. The biggest tip we can offer is to LABEL THE UNDERSIDE OF YOUR FLOOR CORNERS so you have an orientation before you even start.
- Know where your entry point is - this is key to knowing how to fold your floor after your final, pre-competitive rehearsal.
- Whether horizontal or vertical, you will want the initial fold to finish with the farthest side on the TOP of your fold.
  - FAN FOLDING: position your students on the side of entry, and fan-fold from the nearest side so the farthest side is on top
  - HALF AND HALF FOLDING: students will begin the first, largest fold by picking up the opposite side of the floor from entry and folding it to the side of entry.
- Getting the floor on your cart involves using OPPOSITION:
  - FAN FOLDING: The cart will go on the opposite side of the floor from entry - if you enter from the back side, put your cart on the front side. As you fold, the door you enter from will be on top so you can pull off the cart at entry and use the cart to unfold the floor on the vertical or horizontal entry plane
  - HALF AND HALF FOLDING: If you half-and-half fold onto the cart, you will have extra work to do no matter how you fold it - in this suggestion, put the cart at entry, so you can move the ENTIRE floor off the cart, then unfold from there. The bottom of the floor will be at your entry point and you can un-half from that point.
Know where the timelines are!
- If you are using JV, middle school, or other teams under your school’s umbrella, inform those students where the timeline is so they do not cross before the T&P judge cues you.
KNOW WHERE THE 50 IS AND TAKE TIME TO ALIGN YOUR FLOOR PROPERLY
- You should have the 50 marked on your floor. If you do not at this point, do it ASAP.
- DIRECTOR OR STAFF MEMBER: Stand at the marked 50 on the performance floor to assist in guiding the floor unfolding. Give a warning BEFORE the floor is at the 50 so you don’t waste time going back and forth.
- Give direction to make sure the floor is aligned properly - whether flat-front or on a different orientation, ensure this is correct before stepping away.
PRACTICE THIS PROCESS
- Nothing sets a team up for success more than having a process and procedure for unfolding a floor and setting up props/equipment - YOU MUST REHEARSE THIS PRIOR TO THE SHOW DAY. MAKE TIME TO REHEARSE THIS!
Prop/Equipment set up is VITAL to this process
- You may need to make assignments to get props and equipment set up.
  - EFFICIENCY IS KEY - if you have parents or staff helping with props, GET THEM IN ON FRIDAY to rehearse. Use a stopwatch. BE PREPARED.
  - COLOR GUARD: Make an efficient equipment set up plan. This may mean your performers don’t set their own equipment. They will be fine. Running around in the 1:30 before your show announcement does no favors. Teamwork makes the dream work!
LISTEN TO YOUR T&P JUDGE
- They are giving you a countdown. At this point, you should know how much time you need. Be aware. Be calm.
- Direct your performers with a calm, cool voice. REMEMBER: You model the behavior for your students. If you are calm, they are calm.
ONE LAST PIECE OF ADVICE:
- Please please please - unfold your floor as far back as possible, while remaining aware and cognizant of the safety boundaries. Local gyms may have limited space, but your program will be visualized better the further back your performance space is oriented. Know where the back safety boundary is and get as close as you can to that - further back is better!
- Judges want to see the first 5 feet of your show - make sure you prepare for this!
ENJOY THE SHOW! 🙂

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See you on the floor!

Applications for the 2025 CWEA Academic Scholarship and Jeff Bridges Memorial Scholarship are now available!

The Academic scholarship program is open to all performers participating in a group that will compete at a CWEA event this season. Applicants must be currently enrolled as a high school senior or already enrolled in college. The CWEA Awards Committee will review all applications for these scholarships and select students who stand out in qualities of academic, artistic, and personal achievements. Please click the link below to learn more about the Academic Scholarships, see if you qualify, and submit your application.

CWEA Academic Scholarship

The Jeff Bridges Memorial scholarship aims to offer participants the opportunity to continue their education in the marching arts by helping to support their tuition costs. Please click the link below to learn more about the Jeff Bridges Memorial Scholarship, see if you qualify, and submit your application.

Jeff Bridges Memorial Scholarship

Sunday Sessions 1/19/2025:

It’s Week #3 of 2025 - and many of you are preparing for your Premier this week. What a time of excitement, adrenaline, and, above all - time for that debut of your program.

Use this Sunday to finalize your lesson plans, rehearsal schedule, to-do list, communications, and logistics, and get as much rest as you can. It’s going to be a great week - stay focused!

You can create and manage your success or be a victim of unpreparedness. It’s GAME TIME - be amazing this weekend

If there is a topic you’d love more information about, email your ideas to [email protected] to get it covered.

All the best,

Jen Barton

CWEA Education Coordinator

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PHYSICAL TRAINING - Content by Marching Health

Staying on top of fitness is crucial to making it to the end of the season healthy and strong. Marching Health has provided a winter workout for all three divisions - see the PDFs through the buttons below for your division’s winter workout to keep your students physically locked in all year long.

Winter Guard Workout

Percussion Workout

Winds Workout

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COLOR GUARD TIMING + REMINDERS

Reminders for your color guard timing requirements!

PREMIER WEEK: Regional A/AA guards must have 1:30 of the show, and AAA/AA/A, Open, and World must have 2 minutes of the show to present at Premiere.

EQUIPMENT TIME: You may not have your full show on, but keep track of your minimum equipment times with the handy graphic below. NOTE: A Class applies to AAA, AA, and A! Only when groups are promoted from Regional A into AAA mid-season does the consideration for minimum equipment times differ.

INTERVAL TIME: This is the time from when you cross the timing line on entrance, perform your show, and cross the timing line on exit. If you haven’t practiced this process several times by now, make sure that is on your to-do list before Saturday!

ANNOUNCEMENTS: The announcer will give the ready-to-go announcement (Presenting their 2025 program….) at 1:30 for Regional A, A, and Open Classes and at 2 minutes for World - if you have a recorded intro or other considerations, like recorded pre-show, make sure you or one of your staff is at the sound table to guide that process.

SOUND CHECK: Make time to sound check and make sure you have the correct version of your soundtrack uploaded by WEDNESDAY NIGHT. If you’re not sure, re-upload anyway.

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MINDFULNESS AND FOCUS - Content created by Andrew Elkins, Powdersville HS + Etude

There’s a great PowerPoint linked HERE with more information about Mindfulness Journals for your students - this fantastic clinic was presented at the CWEA Summit in November - I highly recommend checking this out if you want your performers to be calm, cool, and confident for 2025.

Here is your journal prompt for this week:

As SHOW DAYS loom on the horizon, start to shift your focus to performance-ready mindsets. Students should be striving for consistency, performance, and control. Each one of the following prompts can be greatly supported by staff sharing personal anecdotes, teams sharing thoughts or ideas with each other, and creating team benchmarks or goals for the upcoming show. Here are some notes to add for show-day specific journal prompts:

Warm-Up & Exercises: Students should know what the routine should be for the whole day, including what technique or warm ups you will be doing. Then, they can see what may be missing from their own personal warmup rotation needs, so when they get a chance on their own they can focus on their own, individual routine to be set up for success.
Practice Log: Record goals, feedback, and personal observations - set the goals for the performance on Saturday and keep track of what effort is put in all week to build consistency and confidence
Emotional Check-Ins: Capture feelings, challenges, and gratitude - many groups do preview shows to feel all the energy and excitement of a show day, so many have already started to process these feelings. If you haven’t done a preview show, lean heavily on this prompt so students can process their range of emotions and have control and poise.
Post-Show Reflection: Identify performance highlights and actionable improvements - post-show is a great time to re-focus, set new goals, and get ready to get even more dialed in with both team and individual progress. Every performance is a learning experience, taking the challenge with the success, and growing from that.

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LOGISTICS 411 - Content by Jen Barton, CWEA Education Coordinator

PREPARING FOR CRITIQUE

It’s your first judged performance - ready or not, here it comes! Over this week, start to prepare for the first critique conversation. Gather your thoughts about your program, and try to look objectively at different components. Some internal conversation starters:

How complete is the show in comparison to what the vision for the final product may be?
If you are telling a story with your show - is the story well-represented?
Do you have your entire production - floor, costumes, flags, props, etc. - if lacking any of these, does that lack create a major issue for comprehension?
Evaluate the skills of your performers - technique, excellence, performance, etc. Have a good analysis of where you think they fall in accordance with your class.
Do I know the judging sheets? Which sheet has been a concern for my team in the past? Can I learn more about this sheet so I can be prepared to respond to the evaluation?

SHOW DAY

Competition day is hectic, hurry up and wait, and that hospitality food with your crisp can of Diet Coke is not going to go far. Make sure you take care of yourself with proper hydration and nutrition so you can conquer the marathon.

If there is one thing I can impress upon you - LISTEN TO YOUR JUDGES TAPES. If you do not have time, listen to the recap (last minute or so of the tape) - that can give you an overall impression of where the particular judge is landing. TAKE NOTES - get a notebook for the season, date each entry, note which judge, and jot down comments.

If you are teaching solo without a staff, listening to recaps will be infinitely more helpful than not listening at all - and should take 5-10 minutes. You’ll have that time while waiting for critique to start.

If you have a staff, assign the tapes out to them for listening and summary (don’t forget to have them on your team’s Competition Suite)!

Here are some external conversation starters:

At the end of the critique process, keep what makes sense and discard what is not useful. Remember: you are involved with this program every day, and a judge sees only the performance of that day. Take a step back and look at the big picture and keep what will be useful for your next steps.

“So, what did you think” —-> just kidding! This question does not start a conversation - the tape tells you what the judge thought. If you weren’t able to listen to tapes - use those INTERNAL conversation starters to navigate through critique.

Ask clarifying questions - if you don’t understand a phrase or commentary, make a note and try to give as much context as you can. The judge may or may not remember what caused that comment - but you can absolutely ask for clarity.

What happens when judges are in disagreement - you can certainly ask to discuss this, especially on GE.

Feel free to explain what’s missing, where you are going, what the vision is - while judges can’t tell you what to do or write or produce, it can be a sounding board and an investment into future viewings.

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See you on the floor!

Sunday Sessions 1/13/2025:

CWEA Education is BACK for Week #2 of our Sunday Sessions, focusing on circuit-wide education. After your first week back, we hope that you have knocked off the holiday break rust and have energized your program with excitement and optimism for your Premier performances! That first week back can be a challenge - but you made it through, and your program’s time to shine is coming on quickly.

And, of course, winter weather is likely affecting your rehearsal schedule - regroup, adjust plans and goals, and don’t try to fit 10 pounds of flour into a 5 pound bag, friends!

Let’s sharpen the saw a bit this Sunday (Monday) together to get organized, get confident, and manage the countdown clock to Premier.

If there is a topic you’d love more information about, email your ideas to [email protected] to get it covered.

All the best,

Jen Barton

CWEA Education Coordinator

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PHYSICAL TRAINING - Content by Dr. Kellie Simerly

Happy Back

In all divisions, the back can often get sore and achy. Keeping it mobile often can help reduce stiffness and soreness. Check out the PDF below for some mobility exercises that can be done at the beginning of the day to prepare the back for activity and at the end of the day to help the back recover.

Happy Back.pdf

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TARGETED (CG) TECHNIQUE - Content by Philip Cohen, Byrnes HS

Check out this video from Phillip Cohen for some reminders and thoughts on technique and training - and how to fit that into your rehearsals!

Targeted Technique Download

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MINDFULNESS AND FOCUS - Content created by Andrew Elkins, Powdersville HS + Etude

Here is your journal prompt for this week:

Understanding and internalizing the count structure of our show music is crucial for creating a cohesive and powerful performance. Reflect on your relationship with the music and how you approach counts in rehearsals and performances. Use the following questions to guide your response:

1. Connection to the Music: How well do you know the count structure of our show music? Do you feel confident navigating transitions, tempo changes, ripple counts, and accents?

2. Challenges and Strategies: Are there specific sections of the show where the counts feel unclear or tricky for you? What strategies can you use to stay locked into the rhythm (e.g., listening for specific instruments, using a metronome, or counting aloud)?

3. Team Awareness: How does your understanding of the count structure contribute to our ensemble’s overall timing and cohesion? What can you do to ensure you’re supporting your teammates in staying on time?

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LOGISTICS 411 - Content by Jen Barton, CWEA Education Coordinator

Tis the season of back-of-house paperwork! Stay in the know about deadlines and what needs to go where. Here’s a jumping off point of items you need to ensure are completed, probably this week:

PAPERWORK AND TASKS

Organizational Forms - CWEA + WGI + any other circuits you perform in
1. Release Forms
2. Permission Forms
3. Performer Verification
4. School District Verification
5. School District Travel + Permission
6. Bus Reservations + Driver Confirmations
Performance Related Tasks
1. Any recorded music track has to be uploaded to CompetitionSuite. Don’t Forget - if you make changes, you MUST upload the new track to CS and then SOUNDCHECK at your next contest.
2. Spiel Sheet is updated and uploaded to CompetitionSuite
Volunteer procurement + organization - if you have props, assign jobs and invite those folks to rehearsals so they can practice doing those roles when you do your timed run through
COLOR GUARD: Check your equipment time! At the start of the season, you may not be doing your entire show - but you’ll be able to figure out if you have that 3/3:30 minimum equipment time. REMEMBER: Equipment in-hand and ready to spin counts as equipment time!
Floor Folding 101
1. We will get you more information next week on the cheat code to folding your floor for easy entry - DON’T FORGET to read your contest-specific information email OR go to the CWEA Event Website to see the Contest Flow
2. Do a refresher course on your expectations for how the floor is unfolded and folded during the performance - if your students crave structure and consistency, you may want to just make this your 24/7/365 procedure.
  1. Who runs the process?
  2. Do the other members talk?
  3. Do you use hand signals?
  4. What happens if it’s not centered, or it’s crooked?
3. Check out your floor and prop carts - they may need padding or tape, or the wheels may not be within regulation. Make repairs and adjustments NOW so this doesn’t get forgotten and cost you points.

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See you on the floor!

Sunday Sessions 1/6/2025:

Happy 2025, CWEA! From all of us at the organizational level, we are so excited to see what the upcoming season brings and the fabulous productions you will bring to life.

The Education Committee will be sending out emails every Sunday with tips, tricks, information, and reminders throughout the season. These will be beneficial for physical training, technique, production, logistics, and more.

If there is a topic you’d love more information about, email your ideas to [email protected] to get it covered.

Keep reading for some start-of-season content!

All the best for YOUR best season yet!

Jen Barton

CWEA Education Coordinator

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PHYSICAL TRAINING - Content by Dr. Kellie Simerly

A strong core is vital for any performer. It provides support and stability for the whole body. As indoor pageantry performers, shoulder strength also proves to be very important. Strong, healthy shoulders allow the performer to confidently utilize their equipment and display many different skills, both with and without equipment.

Click the button below for a PDF of a series of core exercises to implement at all of your rehearsals!

Core Training and Shoulder Stability

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TARGETED TECHNIQUE - Content by CWEA Guard Staff

Right now, you are caught up in getting that dang show on the floor! Keep your eye on the ball and make sure those choices are supporting the needs of your students and your program. Identify areas of concern and work backwards, implementing a change or adjusted focus in your training program to keep your students with a sharp set of skills that help not only creating the show but cleaning the show a breeze.

Download the graphic below for an inspo idea on how to spot a concern and get to the root cause.

Technique Tip 1

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MINDFULNESS AND FOCUS - Content created by Andrew Elkins, Powdersville HS + Etude

Here is your journal prompt for this week:

1. Reflect on an Exercise:

Write down the name of an exercise or sequence you’re currently struggling with.

Break it down step-by-step. What are the movements, counts, or music that are challenging?

2. Visualize the Movement:

Imagine yourself performing the sequence perfectly. How does it feel? What does it look like?

3. Create Vocal or Mental Cues:

For each challenging part, come up with a simple vocal cue to guide you through it. (For example: “to the left,” “grab thumb up,” “look to front.”)

Write these cues next to the steps in your breakdown, or mark them in your music.

4. Plan Your Practice:

Write down how you’ll use these cues in practice this week. Can you say them quietly to yourself or think about them as you perform?

5. Reflect on Progress:

After a few days, revisit this entry and jot down any improvements or insights you’ve noticed.

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LOGISTICS 411 - Content by Jen Barton, CWEA Education Coordinator

Time is of the essence as the days tick by until the Premier Season begins - keep your energy focused where it needs to be - EFFICIENCY. If you do not have a rehearsal game plan for every rehearsal (and class period, if you have them!), you are going to lose time and be caught by surprise right before Game Day.

Step 1: To Do List - a To Do List will keep you objective on what tasks need to be done and give a great accomplishment when you cross the items off. Additionally, include the estimated time you foresee that task taking to complete - even the small stuff (i.e., sabres have 8 counts where they transition to rifle, needs choreography to detail that switch - 10 minutes). Found a few moments, or have a tech that needs a small task? To Do List saves rehearsals.

Step 2: Know How Much Time You Have - if your rehearsal is 4-7pm, how much time is that REALLY? Does it take 4-4:15 to set up and 6:30-7pm to wrap up? Account for each and every task and moment of time - and if you can tighten up your procedure - DO IT.

Step 3: Work Backwards - don’t forget to plan time to practice a TIMED set up, run through, and floor exit. Multiple times. If you have beginning or less experienced students, these run throughs will set up success. Set goals for where you want to be for the show - like how much of the show are you doing, how much is filled in or produced, and what quality level you as a team are striving for. BE REALISTIC. Confidence and excellence are the name of the game - and the show will get done, it always does!

Have you talked about hair and/or make up? Costume undergarments? Do you use rehearsal time to discuss the weekend itinerary, fundraisers, or other announcements? Is all of the equipment taped properly, or do you need to take time to check it? Have you rehearsed with props, working on entrance and exit? Be thoughtful and considerate of ALL the things that you need to do between now and when the announcer says.. “The Carolina Winter Ensemble Association is proud to present…..” and plan for that moment. You can do it - planning will help.

Step 4: Communicate - make sure all the stakeholders (you, your staff, your students, your parents and volunteers, anyone else invested in your program) know of your To Do List, your plans, your rehearsal lesson plan, and your goals. Bonus points if they contribute to all of those elements - inclusion, open dialogue, and mutual investment all work hand in hand to generate holistic success and accomplishment. Team sports aren’t just about the competitors, but the whole environment behind the scenes as well.

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See you on the floor!