Color guard is a youth performing arts activity usually associated with marching band or drill team. Although the specific context of color guard performances may vary, the central components require performers to manipulate equipment such as flags, wooden rifles, and dull metal sabres, while maintaining a performative, dance-based foundation in relationship to musical accompaniment. The purpose of this study is to determine the role of dance in the world of color guard, and to investigate ways of implementing dance training to enhance color guard educational programs. Interviews were conducted with four seasoned color guard instructors from various geographic locations. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to identify how these veteran teachers view the role of dance in color guard, how they determine success in their programs, and how they have been able to utilize dance to their program’s benefit. Preliminary results indicate that focusing on dance training and body awareness significantly contributes to performers’ success in competition, as well as assists with the social/emotional challenges facing this population. These findings suggest a need for further investigation into teaching practices utilized by instructors in order to illuminate how pedagogical training impacts students.