Explore Colorguard!
The UNC Marching Tar Heels, directed by Jeffrey Fuchs and Erin Cooper, are one of the largest and most spirited student groups on UNC’s campus. In addition to performing at all home football games, the band also travels to nearby away games and divides into pep bands for on-campus Olympic Sports.
Of the ~275 students in the Marching Tar Heels, 15 are members of the Colorguard team. This is a team created for those who don’t play instruments but still cherish a love for music. Any student in the university can join the Colorguard team, and therefore the Marching Tar Heels, but it does require lots of time and effort to learn how to spin.
In addition to spinning flags, the Colorguard team also experiments with other equipment like spin-flags, rifles, and sabres. Using this equipment, the team dances to the band’s music with special routines crafted by their captain(s) and designated band staff member. The captain(s) must also take on other responsibilities, like checking uniforms and mentoring new members, among many other things. Their job in rehearsals and game-days is what keeps the entire team functioning as one unit.
The Colorguard team at UNC is truly a family. They always keep open arms for new members, so if you’re thinking about joining the team, don’t be scared! Become a Colorguard member next season by contacting Jeff Fuchs @jfuchs@email.unc.edu and indicating your interest!
