On Friday, November 2, and Saturday, November 3, the band participated in the Bands of America competition where they placed 13^th in preliminaries out of 62 schools, and placed 14^th in finals.

“We had the best performance ever. The energy was so alive and you could feel that what we were making was amazing,” Tristen Banuelos, freshmen tenor saxophone player said.

The band was ranked 3rd in class preliminaries with a score of 86.5 which is the highest score ever achieved in this competition by the marching band. They finished 14th in the combined class finals with a score of 83.85.

“Four points higher would have put us in 4^th place so you have an idea of the intensity of the competition,” Laura Cross, assistant director, said. “We prepared ourselves all year by focusing on our processes during practice and striving to achieve excellence during every rehearsal.”

For the band, next year began the night of the finals (Saturday, November 3rd). In the coming years, the band hopes to continue placing in the finals until they reach the top five, and from there, competing outside of Texas. Until the winter concert on December 13th in the PAC at 7 p.m., the band will be focusing on region auditions and raising money for winter guard.

Although “The Ritual” has been retired, the band will still be performing at the varsity football games, including the playoffs, but with more of a Lion pride/spirit themed show. Therefore, the barrels are no longer in use. If you would like to purchase one, get see Mr. Seladein.