Representatives from local indoor marching arts circuits traveled to Dayton, Ohio this past weekend to share information, refine strategies, and learn about new policies and procedures with members of the WGI administration. With the overall theme of safety, the meeting addressed topics such as participant protection, severe weather protocols, and event safety programs.
All of the WGI circuit partners and office staff at the meeting also took part in an Active Shooter Response Training program, hosted by A.L.I.V.E., to proactively inform and prepare the indoor marching arts community in the event of such a crisis. More information on this incredible initiative, along with the other topics addressed this weekend, can be found below!
Participant Protection State of the Union
Dr. Will Frankenberger presented an update on the current state of all Participant Protection efforts from WGI, along with plans for future initiatives. This included a breakdown of WGI’s newly released 3P (Participant Protection Practice) course, how it differs from the previously used SafeSport platform, introduction of the WGI Studio, and plans for future circuit involvement regarding available participant protection modules.
A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Response Training
Everyone at the meeting participated in A.L.I.V.E., a new and critical program to address the grim reality of an active shooter at an indoor marching arts event. Members were engaged in discussions and training to develop protocols that would help to protect as many people as possible in a crisis scenario.
A.L.I.V.E. Chief Operations Officer, Josh Sullivan, guided participants through real potential scenarios for indoor events, breaking down key points and actions to protect community members using locations like high school gymnasiums, parking lots, and even the University of Dayton Arena as an example. The goal of the program is to help circuit partners initiate proactive discussions at their level to help protect indoor marching arts events nationwide.
Weather Safety Reports and Updates
Members of the WGI office staff presented updates to the regional and World Championships weather safety protocol for this upcoming season. They used data from the 2025 regionals and World Championships to inform their policies and processes, which include providing customized announcements and prepared text messages to event personnel that would inform spectators and groups on the proper procedures in the event of inclement weather.
Policy Change Review and Discussion
The WGI Division Directors provided an update on the policy changes for the 2026 season. Circuit partners were invited to participate in a roundtable discussion where they could share and offer best practices to maximize the safety and efficiency of their regional operations.
WGI hopes that every circuit in the country feels prepared with the tools and knowledge to have a safe and successful season ahead, and we look forward to seeing everyone at their indoor marching arts events in 2026!
