The Drill Team (also recognized as the Women’s Drill Team) was established in the fall of 1953 and primarily performed routines during the halftime of football and basketball games with the Springfield College Band, who provided the music. The performances were stated to be original, usually composed by the members. In 1957, they were nicknamed the “high steppers” and were known for their precision marching. The team also would travel to at least one away game per season, “allowing them to represent the college and realize the high honor each girl holds in belonging to this group.”

A board consisting of the manager, assistant manager, and a representative of each class governed the team . The board’s function was to discuss and present problems and rules for the team’s benefit. Tryouts typically were held in the spring, with the members being upperclassmen. Girls were selected based on their marching ability, response to music, posture, and general appearance.

After the 1966-1967 school year, they are no longer recorded in school handbooks and yearbooks. It is assumed that this was the final year of their existence as a club.

Information sourced from: 1956 Massasoit yearbook, page 85; 1957 Massasoit yearbook, page 92; Student Handbook of the Student Association (1957-1958) Page 35

- Written and researched by Sabrina Moore, July 2022