By Megan Hardin and Patrick Prifogle
Doing what no other FC band has done before, the marching Highlanders have accomplished something remarkable as they compete in the state finals for the fourth consecutive year tomorrow.
“It’s the best feeling ever knowing that we accomplished something that no other FC graduating class has done,” said senior Shelby Reynolds.
“It’s very honoring to know that for the first time in 50 years. We came to a level of success to go to state all four years. Our goal has been to be the first band to go to state four times and we did it. I’m glad the class of 2013 made history,” said senior Craig Keibler.
Going to state for the last four years has raised the band’s expectations.
“Our goal this year isn’t just going to state; it’s doing well at state,” said senior Christian Thomas.
After finishing no higher than sixth place their last three years, the band is really trying to step up their game even more.
“This band has the potential to do better than sixth,” said Thomas.
“I think we have stepped it up this year; we need to perform well to be the best,” said senior Ryan Marksbury.
“I hope we get better than sixth, because getting sixth is getting old,” added senior Matt Drescher.
The band’s high expectations throughout the season have led them to this weekend’s honor.
“We expected to go to state this year. I think we can get fourth or fifth,” said senior Will Fancher.
In order to stop the trend of sixth place finishes, a lot of preparation has been done.
“We are working harder and are more focused, cleaning up a lot more than we have before,” said senior Andrew Frieberger
“We are working on keeping the visuals and music together,” added senior Parker Lyons.
“We need to do better on music; marching is improving,” said senior Amber Sprigler.
With all the stress of state it can be easy to forget that this is the senior’s last attempt at greatness.
“It’s kind of sad because this is the last competition I’m ever going to do at this school with this group of people,” said senior Kayla Sumner.
“This year has been stressful; it’s amazing to know I get to do it one last time,” said Sprigler.