Greg Cole

Inducted: 2017

Greg Cole has been an instructor, director, served on many committees and board positions, as well as being a former President of the Michigan Color Guard Circuit. Being a percussionist, he worked hard to understand what make color guards work, and to explore the similarities and differences between the two genres so that he could give students the education and the tools to be successful. Greg graduated from Owosso High School and went on to march snare and tenors in the Michigan State Spartan Marching Band. At the same time, he played snare in the Northern Aurora Drum and Bugle Corps under the instruction of Joe Kuerzi and Rich Hogan. Greg Cole entered the MCGC world as a battery instructor for the Arthur Hill drumline, where he helped them achieve three WGI World Championship medals in Percussion Independent A, including a Gold in 2001. Along with Steve Yoder, Rich Hogan, and Jamie Fitzpatrick, he was one of the founders of NorthCoast Academy, and helped them to their 2003 WGI World Championship Gold medal in Percussion Independent Open. He has also instructed numerous other units, and began judging in 2008. Greg Cole has influenced many students over the years to be successful in percussion, but more importantly in life. His legacy continues each year by the positive manner in which he encourages everyone. Greg is married to a Reneé Cole, and they have two children together.