After an intense audition, Starr’s Mill senior and Japanese immigrant Miho Kimura successfully earned a position on the University of Alabama’s color guard. 

“It’s like a dream,” Kimura said. “The moment that the instructor called everyone’s name and I found out that I got in was the best moment ever.”

Miho Kimura joined the Starr’s Mill colorguard as a senior. Despite her single season on the team, she performed well at all of the halftime performances and competitions. 

“I really loved spinning a flag for Starr’s Mill, so I wanted to do it in college,” Kimura said.  

The audition at Alabama was a two-day endeavor. Those who auditioned had to teach themselves a warm-up, a routine, and a cheer beforehand. 

The majority of those who auditioned were college-aged adults who attend the University of Alabama. 

During the first day of the audition, additional routines and flag work were thrown at the candidates, which they would only have a few hours to memorize and perfect.

“I think I was the only person from Georgia,” Kimura said. “It was a really weird and uncomfortable atmosphere, but on the second day of the audition I shifted my focus to just my routine and crossed my fingers.”

Kimura was inspired to audition to be part of Alabama’s Million Dollar Band after seeing them in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The band consists of over 400 members.

“I guess it’s going to be a really hard season, but I’m so excited to learn new things with new people,” Kimura said. “I’m also really excited to spin the rifle and go to Alabama football games and scream Roll Tide.”

Outside of color guard, Kimura enjoys attending school, listening to music, rock climbing, and hanging out with her friends. Although she has adapted to attending Starr’s Mill well, before moving to Georgia at 16 years old, Kimura lived in Japan.

“When I was in Japan, I was not a sports-minded person,” Kimura said. “I was more introverted when I was there, and it was a huge change to move here.”

Prior to moving to the United States, Kimura did not know about color guard. But after witnessing a halftime show for the first time at a Starr’s Mill football game, Kimura was inspired to be a part of the show.

“I loved the flags and costumes,” Kimura said. “The whole show was really beautiful, and I really wanted to join it.” 

Kimura performed with the Panther Pride for a year. Taking what she learned during the season, she auditioned for Alabama’s color guard and earned a spot. 

“It is so important to believe in yourself and be confident,” Kimura said. “Just put on a smile.”