Springs Valley 3rd at State Finals
By: Jermaine Williams
info@blackhawkbrigade.com
SV Brigade Media Relations
INDIANAPOLIS – In their 20th trip to the Indiana State School Music Association’s (ISSMA) Marching Band State Finals, the Springs Valley Blackhawk Brigade earned their 16th top five finish as they were awarded 3rd Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium.
The Brigade was just behind Forest Park (Ferdinand) and the state champion, Lewis Cass (Walton). Southridge (Huntingburg) finished in eighth place while the Pride of Paoli finished fifth.
The week leading up to state finals included a number of fun events for the students. Each day, the band boosters provided snacks. The boosters also provided lunch one day. The Brigade was also treated to a state finals dinner and a pep rally with the Volleyball team on Friday.
In an interview with the Bedford Times-Mail, Director of Bands Luke Aylsworth said, “I want the students to enjoy themselves these last few weeks. This needs to be a celebration of hard work and dedication. I hope they gather as many memories as they can. These are memories of a lifetime.”
Given the Brigade’s success this season and the nature of the state finals, placing third may seem to be a disappointment to some. Aylsworth reminds us that just five years ago, we were struggling to advance past district and regional. In 2001, we had 23 students in marching band. Saturday, the Brigade traveled 115 students to Indianapolis.
“Our season has already been a success,” added Aylsworth. “Saturday will not change that in my mind. Now, the task becomes making the last few performances the best of the year.”
The Brigade will now take a weekend off, the first since August 8 (84 days). On Thursday, November 12, Springs Valley will compete on the national level at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. They will participate in the Bands of America Grand Nationals in Class A. Thursday’s quarterfinals performance will begin at 10:45 am. Should they advance, they will perform on Saturday for a chance at a National Championship.
Springs Valley will learn on Friday, November 13 if they advance to the National Semi-Finals. The Brigade will also host a pep-rally and senior send off on Friday night at 9:00pm at the High School Gymnasium. |
