On Wednesday October 21, all eligible members of the Teague Lion band will head to LaVega High School for the 2009 UIL Marching Competition to perform their show, The Legends of the Mustangs, in front of a panel of judges.

    The band puts forth great effort at routine practices and practices every day during sixth period. “As a band, we have practiced very long and very hard, and have come a long way,” sophomore Caitlyn Chandler said. The band is working towards their goal of receiving a rating of a division one at the annual UIL Marching Competition and eventually advancing to state. 
    With the day of contest getting closer and closer, nerves are beginning to come into play for everyone.  “[I feel like] I’m prepared for the UIL Marching Competition.  I’m still nervous, but I know the band has worked hard and we will do our best,” sophomore Bethany Guest said.  When asked how prepared and nervous she felt junior Brandy Dixon replied “I think I’m prepared to march. I’m worried about other people getting nervous, but if we try hard enough, we can advance!” 
    For many members of the band, this is the first time they have had the opportunity to compete with the Teague Lion and in a UIL event. “I’m nervous that I might mess up or get off step,” freshman Andrew Collins said.
    For other members, this is the last chance they have to receive a division one and advance to the next level. The opportunity to advance to state only comes around every other year. Therefore, this year is the last state year for the juniors and seniors. “I’m keeping my fingers crossed for the Band. I want to get a division one rating so bad because this year is the junior class’s last chance to make it to state,” junior Renee Looney said. 
    Assistant Drum Major Taylor Hamilton feels confident in the band’s hard work. “I think we have prepared as much as we can considering the circumstances and all we have been through,” he said. However, Head Drum Major Andrea Johnson feels more anxious. “At this point,” she said, “I think that all we can do is our best and hope everything works out.”
    If the band receives a division one, they will advance to area and be one step closer to their goal of traveling to San Antonio, Texas to perform at the State Competition.