For the first time since being moved up to the Scholastic Open class level from National Scholastic A, the Newtown High School Varsity Winter Guard tossed, spun and danced their way into the semifinals of the Winter Guard International (WGI) World Championships held over a three-day competition in Dayton, Ohio, last week.

The 16-member Varsity team departed just after midnight on Wednesday, April 2, for the WGI championships.

More than 400 guard teams in the Scholastic and Independent “A,” Open and World classes from nine countries — including Denmark, Italy, France, and Thailand — traveled to Ohio to compete.

The Varsity Winter Guard, performing their elegant show titled “Whirlwind,” were thrilled to learn they had placed in the world’s top 20 of Scholastic Open guards after their preliminary performance.

“I am just so proud of them!” said instructor Janos Pergeley who made the 12-hour bus trip with his team. “We had a goal to make semis, and they reached it, beautifully.”

With only two members graduating in June, the NHS Varsity Guard members already have their sights set on what would be a Newtown first at any level; making it into finals.

“I am going to kiss the wall,” said Captain Kelsea Morshuk-Allen, referencing the famous tunnel leading into the Dayton University Arena where finals are held. “We are determined; 2015 is our year!”