On April 1, Lockport’s Varsity Winterguard outstandingly showcased their piece entitled “The Final Hour” one last time at LTHS before heading off to the Winter Guard International World Championship. 

Using flag spinning, mock-rifle tossing, saber manipulation, dance technique, theatrical elements, and many other interactive props, these talented performers put on a show telling a captivating story about the end of some brutal conflict that is not specified, but left up in the air for the audience to interpret. 

The show was extremely fascinating to watch due to the creativeness of this piece that is conveyed through portrayal of intense emotions, physical contact with props, and overall magnificent technique in all areas. It was no shock to learn that with this very performance, varsity got first place at Midwest Color Guard Circuit Grand Championships on March 29 and 30.

After their showcase, Varsity Winterguard went on to the WGI World Championship competition in Dayton, Ohio, where they competed amongst other Winterguards at the University of Dayton Arena. They placed 12th overall and made finals with a score of 86.3, and have officially made finals three times in a row, something that is very difficult to do, considering they jumped to a harder class.

“With thorns across their floor and props, along with tattered cut skirts, Lockport Township High School brought the audience to ‘The Final Hour.’ The show includes a flag feature using rope instead of poles to stun the crowd as they move in sync and dancers against the floor, showcasing a struggle coming to a close,” says Emily Cedre, a 2025 Class Finalist Reviewer at WGI.

The hard work, dedication, exquisite talent and overall genuine passion for winterguard this team has was extremely evident in their performance. The synchronization as well as both team and individual effort made the piece a must-see; it was quite impossible to look away for even a second.

Show designers and choreographers: John Collier, Katie Mahoney, Melissa Pietruszynski

Varsity team members: Sarah Eaton, Ella Slivinskas, Abby Grice, Adrianna West, Alyssa Nolan, Mia Nolan, Briana Prosapio, Camille Lippe, Ema Povalitis, Everly Kubis, Mara Kubis, Kaitlyn Flynn, Jennasei Ramirez, Julia Meyer, Katie Washington, Lorelei Siergiej, Madison Kijak, Ollie Evans, Ollina Thompson, Rowan Wallenberg, Sophia Reed, Tori Job, Vinny Vacala, Maya VanWingeren