Winter Guard fans around the nation woke up to heart-wrenching news from the 2025 Winter Guard International IW gold medalist: Pride of Cincinnati will no longer field a competitive ensemble.

The press release put out on Pride's website details the ensemble's ethos and its glowing history, concluding with a brief outline of this next chapter of Pride of Cincinnati:

While this is the conclusion of a competitive era, it is not the end of our story. Pride of Cincinnati’s legacy will continue through the hundreds of alumni who have passed through the program over the decades. Many are now instructors, designers, and directors, sharing the same positive, inclusive approach that has been foundational to Pride’s philosophy. Whether in the color guard activity or beyond, the values instilled by Pride will continue to have a positive impact on students for years to come.

As we move into this next chapter, Pride of Cincinnati will explore meaningful ways to extend its impact—whether through the support of local and national color guard programs, scholarships, or new forms of creative and educational outreach. In keeping with our legacy, any future endeavors will aim to uplift young performers and foster community through the arts. Whatever form they take, these next steps will be guided by the same spirit of passion, innovation, and care that defined every moment on the floor.

The press release concludes with the sentiment, "This is not an ending. This is the continuation of something greater—a legacy of excellence, love, and the unshakable belief that the arts can change lives."

Whether you marched with Pride of Cincinnati or cheered them on from the stands, one thing is certain: Pride of Cincinnati will be missed dearly.