By: Delaney Casten and Jordan Ogden

Contrary to popular belief, the Marching Band does far more than just play the halftime show for the varsity football team.  They have competed in four competitions this season and have performed exceptionally well, greatly improving since last year, receiving straight ones compared to the straight twos they received the previous season.

The Marching Band started the season off on September 20 playing at Woodgrove High School, coming in second place.  They were one point away from first.

At the Shenandoah Invitational, sponsored by James Madison University and held at Harrisonburg High School on October 11, the Marching Huskies came in first in their class and overall, out of thirteen other bands.  To add to their victory, a cash prize was given to the top three bands; the Huskies won five hundred dollars, which was used to buy equipment and new uniforms.

“It was really nerve-wracking because [the judges] called back the top six,” said junior Leah Gerving. “Luckily we were the first team called back.”

At the Marine Corp Invitational on October 18 at the US Naval Marine Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland, the Marching Band added on to their first place streak.

“The stadium was the coolest place I have ever played at,” said sophomore Sam Armstrong.

The Marching Huskies biggest achievement was getting straight ones at the state competition.  States took place in Richmond on November 1.

“[Winning states] was really gratifying,” said Ms. Newmiller.  “It was really nice for the seniors who have committed to Marching Band for four years to show that hard work pays off.”

With the season wrapping up, the band has been preparing for next year.

“We want to keep our reputation,” said freshman Deena Elrefai, “but it is going to be hard since we are losing a third of our band.”  Twenty out of the fifty-three members are seniors this year, so it is going to be tough to compensate for the loss.

“We understand it is going to be hard,” said senior Tyler Gantt, “and hopefully the band won’t be too terribly affected.  Our goal for the rising seniors is to pass on what we have taught them to the upcoming freshmen.”