Lawrence LeClaire, Southwind’s Corps Director, is excited about the coming year.
Southwind is in good hands as it maps out its first post-pandemic season. And part of that
leadership is found our three drum majors: Jordan Costagliola, Orlando, Florida; Makayla
Myers, North Carolina; and Hailey Swanson, Jacksonville, Florida.
“We’ve always seen Southwind as not only a performing organization, but a youth
organization most of all. That means taking care to create a culture where youth leadership
is central to success. And this year’s drum majors live up to some very high standards.”So
who leads 2022 Southwind on the field and off?
Jordan Costagliola, is a freshman at the University of Florida Freshman, majoring in
advertising. What brought him to Southwind?“I’m a drum corps fan and heard great things
about Southwind’s organization. One of the best parts of being a drum major is advocating
on behalf of performers with the staff and helping to form close connections with
everyone. We might have been absent from the activity for two years, but we’re making up
for lost time this year with a lot of growth.”
Meanwhile, Makayla Myers, is not letting any grass grow under her feet. A junior at Ardrey
Kell High School in Charlotte, she’s already making big plans to serve her country in the US
Army. After that, she plans to fulfill ambitions to become a pediatric surgeon.“I wanted to
be part of something bigger than me. That means serving in ways that make a difference.
Southwind means that to me—as well as to all our performers. It’s a very close-knit
organization. Inclusivity is everything and I want everyone knowing we’re in this
together! So I’ll do whatever the corps may need from me to foster a successful
environment”.
Hailey Swanson has unfinished business to do. She was all set to march Southwind during
the 2020 season, before tour was cancelled due to Covid. A sophomore at Florida State
University, Hailey is making up for lost time by dedicating herself to Southwind’s success.
“It was a big disappointment to shut down for Covid, but I’m back. Now, as drum major, I
am excited to be a resource for everyone, making sure they’re enjoying the experience
while helping us to achieve so much this summer. I’m thrilled to be finally doing drum
corps again.”
Everyone at Southwind agrees with Hailey. With a growing organization and renewed
commitment to success, Southwind enters the 2022 season prepared to tour the country
and impress audiences nationwide.
“While we certainly would have preferred being on the field in 2020 and 2021, the hiatus
has given us some opportunities to grow,” offers LeClaire. “We’ve been able to implement
new systems, find additional staff, and really think hard about how we continue to grow in
our mission. And cultivating leadership in our ranks will be a big key to our future success.”
Southwind was originally formed in December, 1980, taking the field for competition for
the first time for the 1981 season. After going inactive in the late 2000s, a completely new
organization was formed by alumni and friends in 2014. In its last competitive season in
2019, Southwind’s growth was recognized by DCI as the Most Improved Corps in the
activity.
Southwind looks forward to more than continued growth in the seasons ahead. The
organization also wants to set the standard for unforgettable performer experiences in the
years to come.