Gail Royer, a local elementary school music teacher and instructor for the Sparks, was named as the director for the new corps.

Although they did not place high at any of the competitions, the tour was a success because of the experience and exposure to the national drum corps scene.

Santa Clara Vanguard capped off its year by winning the first of many California State Open Championships.

In 1971, the Blue Stars, Cavaliers, Madison Scouts, Santa Clara Vanguard, and the Troopers formed the Midwest Combine.

This action was taken in reaction to the rigid rules of the American Legion and VFW and the low or nonexistent performance fees paid for appearing in the various competitions.

The Combine members felt that the corps should be making their own rules, operating their own competitions and championships, and keeping the bulk of the proceeds that those shows earned.

Santa Clara would remain among DCI's top three corps for the organization's first eight years, winning the World Championships in 1973, 1974, 1978.

In 2000, the Vanguard Cadets became the first feeder corps to win a championship in Division II (now Open Class).