WGI's impact on 2011 Shows

WGI's advisory board made some sweeping changes to their current rules over the past month, according to a video* by Shirlee Whitcomb on the WGI website ("As You Plan 2011").

*Note- if you are a WGI member, you can access this video by signing through the Site Login on WGI's main page.

For those who are not members of WGI, or do not have the ability to login to the WGI Director's page, here's a brief synopsis:

1) Colorguards may now have up to 40 members in their guards.

Going up to 40 will not automatically create more success. It will create some issues as well - particularly clarity of design.  However, if you currently have 2 guards and are concerned about financial aspects of these programs, you could consider combining the two groups to reduce financial stress. 


Give it definite thought, and consider why, as well as how, you're going to approach this.

2) Classification

Biggest change: There is no more automatic promotion based on championships performance. Finalists previously were promoted automatically before the next season. Now, if finalists remain in their class the next season, they will be evaluated at the first show of the next season for promotion consideration.  Shirlee encourages designers/instructors to strongly consider promoting your unit if they make finals at WGI Championships (and perhaps- although unspoken- in your local circuit, if you medal, consider self-promoting to the next higher class, unless your circuit automatically promotes medalists).

A Class - shouldn't be asked to throw more than quads. Shouldn't be asked to explore the triad excessively. If your group is achieving open class skills, they should be in open class.

Also according to Shirlee- if you're a college guard - you really should be in Open class, not in A class.

Misconceptions:

Moving from one class to another should not affect your group financially. This is a common misconception! The only thing that may impact your group financially is if you need to rehearse more often and pay for your rehearsal site.

If you are promoted to a higher class, that does NOT automatically mean your group will make finals in the next class.  However, put your kids in the most competitive situation they should be in. Don't "sandbag" just to win or get a medal.

Karl Lowe and Shirlee are both there to help you make your program better and to help you succeed. Use the resources available to you!