The Marching Giants had a very busy weekend. Friday, September 14, they reported to the band room directly after school to practice before their performance at half-time. After the short practice the members grabbed a quick bite to eat and changed into their uniforms. Some jitters were present, mostly from the new members; but this is their home stadium, and it was homecoming, so they marched out proudly and presented their show to the homecoming crowd. Cheers came as the show began; but quieted down as the music begins and the members start their movement. As the show completed, the crowd is back on their feet, cheering and clapping as the members march off the field. The members are released after half-time since they have a full schedule on Saturday.
Saturday morning many members attend section breakfast in locations like Flapjacks, Burger, King, McDonalds and other location. Section breakfast allow the members to gather and discuss the show from the night before and forth coming competition later in the day. The members arrive at the HS at 8:00 am to begin practice. Before leaving for the competition, the Marching Giants are happy to represent the Wayne Township Community; they finish up their practice, and load eight buses to head to Clermont, IN to take part in Clermont Old Fashion Days. The parade steps off at 11:00 am and features, politicians, MSD of Wayne Township representative, including Dr. Jeff Butts, superintendent, and, of course, your Marching Giants. As the Marching Giants move along the parade route, the crowds move closer to the curb to observe the greats band in the township. Cheers, clapping, and screams can be heard as they play Battle Hymn of the Republic. Once the parade was finished, the members loaded their buses to head back to the HS. More practice; and then they were off to the First Annual Fishers Invitational at Fishers HS.
New members find they were nervous for their first competition; but found upper classmen around to give encouraging words and stories to help easy their worries. Once the students arrive at Fishers, HS, the Band Boosters have prepared sack lunches for the students to enjoy. The members enjoy fellowship before dressing into full uniform. Ben Davis was scheduled as the last unit to perform. By the time they stepped on the field, the stands were packed with fans from around the state. Fans in the stands begin the cheer that spells out Ben Davis to show their pride in the “purple train”; then all is quiet and the music begins. Fans find the color guard uniforms have arrived just in time for the competition. The mauve, grey, and black fabrics with silver sequins that shimmer as the guard members move and dance around. Also new are swing flags used in the final movement of their show “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate”. The flags flow and create ruffles in the breeze. The show finishes and the crowd is on their feet. Awards follow shortly after the Marching Giants finish. Ben Davis is award third place in their Class. The directors, parents and fans are very proud of the Marching Giants. When the buses arrive back at the HS, many of the fans are in the parking lot honking their horns and flashing their lights to show the support. Whether it’s a football game, a parade, or competition, the Wayne Township community is there to support the Marching Giants; and the students are happy to be part of this community.
Next week, the Marching Giants travel to Louisville, KY for Band of America Regional competition. See You in the Stands!
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