Winter guard is an indoor color guard activity derived from military ceremonies or veterans organizations ceremonies. Unlike traditional color guard, winter guard is performed indoors, usually in a gymnasium or an indoor arena. Winter guards use the same equipment as they do during the marching band season. The use of sabres, rifles, and flags, along with choreography, add to the effect of the theme of the show. Along with their equipment, the ensemble performs on a 55’x80′ vinyl tarp that is painted in accordance to the theme of the show. This helps shape the set design for the overall effect. During the winter program, the guard continues to master their equipment skills and learn a higher vocabulary of choreography. The winter guard focuses more on dance and movement skills put in the routine to challenge the group and to bring them to the next level of precision and skill. The RHS Winter Guard Program begins after the marching band season ends, which is usually mid-November and continues until the beginning of April. Students are selected by audition and participate in the Gulf Coast Guard and Percussion Circuit competitions held on Saturdays, January-April.