Today we’d like to introduce you to Wanda Winters.
Hi Wanda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS!!!
Python’s Drill Team is a community-based, non-profit organization that provides a safe, structured outlet for Kansas City youth to express their talents through music, movement, and the arts. Founded in 1986 by Wanda Winters—with only 10 girls performing to a boom box and cassette tape—the team quickly expanded. Within two years, Wanda added drums, flags, rifles, and additional performance elements, welcoming both boys and girls.
Over the past 40 years, the Pythons have grown into a nationally recognized program, traveling across the United States and earning multiple first- and third-place trophies in competitive events. The team has been featured in documentaries, local media, and national television networks, including Netflix, highlighting its cultural impact and longstanding legacy. For decades, Wanda Winters has tirelessly volunteered her time and resources to ensure Kansas City youth have opportunities to build discipline, confidence, leadership, and community pride through the performing arts.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Over the years, I have faced ongoing financial challenges and difficulty maintaining a steady roster of team members. Some of those years were easier than others, but our youth are constantly influenced by the fast-changing trends and pressures of today’s society. Despite these obstacles, I have remained committed to providing a stable, positive, and creative outlet for young people in our community.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am proud of the legacy I’ve built with the Pythons Drill Team. To me, the Pythons are more than performers — we are a community, a family, and a powerful force for positive change. Whether we had 10 members or 100, we always created something meaningful. We brought families, neighborhoods, and generations together. We became a source of pride, excitement, and cultural connection. And through every season, we stayed committed to uplifting our youth and celebrating the strength of our community.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I am a risk taker. We compete against teams with all kinds of different styles, and I never shy away from the challenge. There are times when the funds weren’t there — times when traveling, new uniforms, or updated drum equipment seemed out of reach. But we made it work with what we had. We stayed creative, resourceful, and determined. And even though creating new competitive routines is always a challenge, we faced it head-on and delivered every time. That’s the spirit that keeps the Pythons moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pythonsdrillteam.com
- Instagram: Pythons Drill Team
- Facebook: Pythons Drill Team
- Youtube: Pythons Drill Team TV
