Three Grayson County high school marching bands are set to represent the area at the upcoming Texas State Marching Contest in the Class 3A division. Whitesboro, Howe and Pottsboro earned spots among the top 25 of about 200 participating bands.

Band directors celebrate the achievement

“The kids have put in so much work right from day one,” said Austin Nestler, director of the Whitesboro band. “It’s been a whirlwind of events, rehearsals and practices.” Howe band members Sicileigh Weinmann and Macie Bryant echoed the excitement, describing their feelings as “pretty darn excited, really really excited.”

Pottsboro makes history

Pottsboro’s director, Jackie Deen, highlighted the significance of the milestone. “Pottsboro has never made it to the state marching contest before; this year the kids just bought in and dug deep and we ended up in third place, so it’s pretty special,” she said. Deen noted that the result exceeded expectations for what was intended to be a rebuilding year.

Support and friendly competition

Directors and students from Whitesboro and Howe expressed strong support for Pottsboro. “So, so excited for Pottsboro, I really am!” said Howe director Angie Liss. Nestler added, “We’re actually super happy for them; this is really just one big family, one big team that we’re up here a part of.” Liss also emphasized that healthy competition remains among the three programs.

Looking ahead to the state contest

Weinmann, president of the Pride of Howe Band, set her sights on the state stage, stating, “We want to beat our biggest competitor that has always beat us!” Band members described the program as a family, with Macie Bryant noting, “I know who my maid of honor is gonna be because of band,” and Deen adding, “Band is family, they’re like my kids.” Nestler concluded, “I’m happy to see that they’re getting the most out of it and we’re getting the most out of them and making them better people.” The three bands will travel next week to compete at the state marching contest.

Original reporting: KXII News 12 (Gray) — read the source article.