ATLANTA—After an undefeated season of competition, the Georgia State University Winter Guard clinched the prestigious title of World Champion in the Independent A Class at the Winter Guard International (WGI) Championships in Dayton, Ohio.
This three-day competition, April 11 through 13, followed roughly 60 regional competitions.
Under the leadership of GSU Color Guard Director Tavius Cooper and bolstered by the support of Jessica Tinney and Kate Alward, a GSU graduate assistant majoring in Music Education, the group’s 2024 show titled “CircleOne” was created by Michael James.
The Georgia State Winter Guard has consistently delivered stellar performances with multiple finals placements and a previous World Champion title with its 2014 show, “Before My Time.”
Originating from military ceremonies, winter guard has transformed into a competitive and captivating indoor color guard sport and performance art. Through choreographed staging, dance and the skilled manipulation of equipment such as flags, prop rifles and sabers, winter guard embodies a unique fusion of athleticism and artistry.
“I am beyond proud of the team,” Cooper said. “This win is such validation for our hard work over the last few years. It proves that hard work and consistency do pay off, sometimes in the biggest way. I couldn’t ask for a better group of students to share this moment in time with. They embody everything I love about Georgia State University.”
Adam Dalton, director of athletic bands, echoed Cooper’s sentiments, expressing his pride.
“I am so proud of the students and staff of our winter guard,” Dalton said. “They performed incredibly well all year and completed a historic undefeated season. This was a huge opportunity for Georgia State to be seen on an international stage. I am excited for the future of this ensemble.”
The members of the GSU Winter Guard are Ethan Berzinski, Maddie Davis, Breonna Frazier, Cara Gowens, Sanai Gross, Avery Hou, Kierra James, Ava Lane, Anna Lappin, Nancy McBride, Kaiya Moore, Amelia Rush, Kaleigh Wilson and Adam Woodall. Hailing from diverse areas of the university, these students brought their unique talents and experiences to the ensemble, contributing to its success.
“It is a big deal to those in the band community,” said Chester Phillips, director of the School of Music and interim dean of the College of the Arts. “Our guard’s world championship this weekend is noted by many across the country and will, no doubt, be a major feather in the cap of the GSU Panther Band and university as a whole.”