Band and Vision came home on Nov. 8th as the UIL 6A gold medalist. UIL marching contests are a multi-stage advancement process that began in early October with the UIL Region 32 Marching Competition. This competition was based on an evaluation of the bands musical and visual strengths. Ranking is assigned based on technical performance, with the best score being a one. The band was awarded first division rankings and were able to advance and continue their competitive season into November.

At the end of October the band competed at the UIL “Area H” qualifier [against bands like Vista Ridge] where they placed 2nd overall in finals. This placement was their ticket to perform in the Alamodome in San Antonio with the other top ranked bands in the state.

“Every time I walked off the field, I aimed to feel proud of myself no matter the results.” Senior Ariana Browne said. “I am proud that we were able to advance to state and have more opportunities to inspire our audience.”

The UIL state marching competition was hosted just 2 days after the conclusion of the BOA [Bands of America] competition in San Antonio. Only 42 bands out of over 1,000 in the state of Texas successfully made it through the advancement process and to the Alamodome to compete. Based on scores ranging from visual performance, musical capabilities and complex organizational perfection, only 12 bands were selected to move onto the finals round the following day. Vandegrift was fortunate enough to be one of these bands.

“I was pretty sad that I would be performing for the last time but I was trying to make it my best because there were people in the stands I was trying to impress,” Senior Landon Von Stroh said.

Following their final performance, all the finalist bands were gathered on the stadium field to hear the results of the competition. Vandegrift was announced as the state champion. 

“I was shocked when I heard the results.” Senior Tim Norrod said. “We had a really good season and I was happy to end on a high note.” 

For many seniors, this show was their last time being a part of the marching band organization, an opportunity that changed so many lives in their four years of hard work.

“I am so sad to say goodbye to the marching band but I am so proud of all that we have accomplished and the legacy we have left on this program.” Senior Cade Cassens said. “I am beyond proud of all the underclassmen and I can’t wait to see what they accomplish in the future.”