
Tomball High School and Tomball Memorial Color Guard Programs Set New Standards in Fine Arts Excellence
Tomball ISD’s commitment to fine arts is on full display through the rising success of its Color Guard programs at Tomball High School (THS) and Tomball Memorial High School (TMHS). These programs, known for their expressive choreography and technical skill, have become competitive powerhouses while fostering creativity, teamwork, and personal growth among students.
Each Color Guard team is an extension of its school's award-winning marching band, blending flags, rifles, and dance in synchronized, emotionally compelling routines. Their success is driven by strong leadership and dedicated students, supported by a community that values the performing arts.
Leadership and Growth in Tomball ISD Color Guard
Under the guidance of Conner Adams at THS and Brittany Shepherd at TMHS, both programs have seen remarkable growth in recent years.
“Since I began directing the program, it has grown significantly in both size and competitive stature,” said Shepherd. “We’ve proudly advanced in classification three times—a reflection of our team’s dedication and elevated performance level.”
At Tomball High School, Adams has led a similar trajectory of expansion and achievement.
“Every year since starting the program we have been promoted to the next competitive class after winning the championship of that class,” said Adams. The program has grown from just eight members to more than 60 in four years.
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Color Guard Competition Results Reflect Excellence
The 2024–2025 competitive season has been especially strong for both schools, as they prepare to compete in state and national Winter Guard championships.
Recent Tomball High School Results:
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Multiple 1st Place wins in both varsity and JV categories at Cypress Falls, Klein Collins, and Pearland High School contests
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1st Place finish at WGI San Antonio Regional Contest out of 38 groups
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Area Championships titles for both Varsity and JV teams
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Heading to State Championships in College Station
Recent Tomball Memorial High School Results:
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1st Place finishes at WGI New Braunfels and WGI San Antonio Prelims
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3rd Place in WGI San Antonio Finals
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1st Place at TCGC Area Championships – Blue Division
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Set to compete in Winter Guard International Finals next week
“These events provide our students with opportunities to showcase their talent, experience high-level competition, and connect with other performers across Texas and beyond,” said Shepherd.
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A Creative Outlet for Tomball ISD Students
While results speak volumes, the heart of these programs lies in creativity and student engagement. Color Guard routines are collaborative productions—designed to resonate emotionally with audiences and challenge students artistically.
“The design process for every show is really different every season and with every group,” Adams explained. “I tend to start with the soundtrack. I always try to determine a mood and a characteristic that drives the show that I think will be compelling to the students but also the audience and competitive judges.”
Shepherd added, “I draw creative inspiration from music, diverse genres, and visual art from across different mediums. Each concept is crafted to challenge the students artistically and technically while captivating the audiences.”
Building More Than Just Performers
Beyond competition, the Tomball ISD Color Guard programs aim to shape students into leaders and lifelong learners.
“The success of our program is rooted in the extraordinary dedication of our students and the unwavering support of their parents,” said Shepherd. “Together, we have built a program that not only performs at a high level but also fosters personal growth, resilience, and lasting friendships.”
Adams echoed that sentiment: “My goal for this program is to continue to better ourselves as students, community members, and teammates. Every season our goal is to always be moving forward as a better version of ourselves than the last year, and I am proud to say we have been successful at that thus far.”
Join the Color Guard Community in Tomball
With increasing recognition in Texas fine arts competitions, Tomball ISD’s Color Guard programs continue to inspire students and impress judges across the state. Students interested in joining are encouraged to contact Conner Adams at THS or Brittany Shepherd at TMHS.
