In her first Guard Closet feature, we introduced Nicole Younger as a Guard Closet Design Coordinator and one of the most versatile educators in the marching arts. Now, we’re highlighting her career as a designer, director, and instructor — from BOA and WGI finalist high schools to DCI corps — showing why she is one of the most respected voices in visual design today.

Round Rock HS (2018–2020, Director)

As Director at Round Rock HS, Nicole led both the marching band and winter guard to finalist placements, including BOA appearances that showcased her bold design and choreography. Round Rock became known for its powerful shows, with staging and flag work that stood out on the national stage.

• 2019 — Round Rock HS “A Simple Gesture” (UIL Regional)
• 2018 — Round Rock HS UIL Area Finals

Tomball HS (2015–2017, Director)

During her leadership at Tomball HS, Nicole helped grow the program through creative winter guard productions and marching band shows that earned finalist placements. Under her direction, Tomball’s winter guard achieved class promotion — a testament to her design innovation and ability to elevate performers.

• 2016 — Tomball HS “The Power of One” (Waller Marching Festival Finals)

Corbin HS, KY (2008–2014, Director/Designer)

Nicole’s early design work at Corbin HS laid the foundation for her career. She built both the marching band and winter guard into medal-winning ensembles, remembered for creativity and detail in both floor design and staging.

• 2012 — Corbin HS Marching Band “Frostbite"

Monarch Independent Percussion (2015–2017, Movement Specialist)

At Monarch Independent Percussion, Nicole’s design expertise expanded into the percussion world. As a movement specialist, she brought choreography and visual identity to medalist shows that earned national recognition on the WGI stage.

• 2016 — Monarch Independent “Word.” (WGI World Championships)
• 2017 — Monarch Independent “Alike” (WGI World Championships)

DCI Corps Experience

Nicole also contributed her skills to Drum Corps International, working with multiple corps as a guard instructor. While her high school and winter guard roles highlighted her design skills, her DCI experience gave her national visibility and connected her to hundreds of performers on the marching field.

The Academy Drum & Bugle Corps (2024–2025)

• 2024 — The Academy “When Opportunity Knocks” (DCI World Championships)
• 2025 — The Academy “London Fog” (DCI World Championships Semifinals)

Colts Drum & Bugle Corps (2017–2019)

• 2017 — Colts “Both Sides Now” (DCI World Championships)
• 2018 — Colts “True Believer” (DCI Finals Performance)
• 2019 — Colts “When Hell Freezes Over” (DCI Prelims)

Genesis Drum & Bugle Corps (2016)

• 2016 — Genesis “Hell Hath No Fury” (DCI World Championships)

A Complete Designer’s Portfolio

From BOA finalist high schools to medalist winter programs and world-class drum corps, Nicole Younger has built a career that blends design, direction, and education. Her shows are remembered for their detail, creativity, and ability to connect with audiences and performers alike. Today, she brings that expertise to Guard Closet as a Design Coordinator, helping programs around the country elevate their visual design and performance.

✨ Directors looking for design consulting, show coordination, or guard program development can connect with Nicole through Guard Closet’s Design Services.

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