Sophia Sharypov – Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) - Lakewood Ranch High School’s color guard is more than just flags spinning in the air; it’s gymnastics, dance, theater, and pure energy all together. And at the center of it all is Zoe Pugliesi, the teacher who keeps the team running, choreographing, and smiling through every rehearsal.
“I supervise the ladies, and the occasional boy,” said Pugliesi.
“I help choreograph, organize, and work with the band director to make the show come together,” she continued.
Color guard might seem intimidating to outsiders, but Pugliesi wants everyone to know it’s a space for creativity. “It’s bottom twirling, dance, gymnastics, and theater. It’s a place for anyone who wants to try something new,” she said.
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On January 17th, LRHS color guard hosted a premier winter guard competition, welcoming teams from across the region to compete on campus
Pugliesi’s own story with color guard started in high school, where she was a percussionist and gymnast. She tried winter guard on a whim and won two championships. Eventually, she came to LRHS to coach after attending a friends-and-family show.
“The hardest part is not disappointing anyone,” she said.
“I consider these kids my kids, so I want to make sure I represent them well. The kids’ personalities never fail to make me smile. Every day is always better because of them,” she continued.
The impact of color guard goes beyond fun moves. “It makes the show pretty, duh,” Pugliesi joked. “You hear the music from the band, but color guard tells the story visually,” she continued.
Students agree with Pugeliesi.
Sophomore Sky Pursley said, “It’s all about having fun and making amazing friends.”
Senior Genevieve Sammons added, “Seeing the crowd react is the best feeling ever.”
Pugliesi shared advice for newcomers: “Have fun. It can be scary and daunting at first, but it’s worth it. Don’t take it too seriously. Just enjoy it.”