Moreno Valley, CA—Marching Band is back in competition. On Oct. 4 the Colton High School Yellowjacket Regiment started their competitive season at the 27th annual Cougar Fest at Canyon Springs High. The team proudly placed fifth in the 3A division with their performance of “Bottom of the Ninth” by John Landry.
The road getting there wasn’t so smooth. Within the last four years the band has seen a lot of changes, notably in the director’s role. The team is being led by their third band director over that stretch. As a result, hopes within the band weren’t high for going into competitions this season.
“I wasn’t very hopeful,” said drum captain Albert Aparicio, “because last time we got a new band director, we didn’t compete at all”
Fortunately, new band director Tyler Sampson, with support from the band’s booster parents, was able to get the Yellowjackets out on the field performing in front of fellow schools, families and judges.
Sampson is grateful for all the support and help he has received from the boosters. “They’re a resource that without them, I don’t think I would be able to do this without breaking down crying.”
In addition to trying to become situated with a new director, the team also found itself putting together an incomplete field show. Currently they are without a color guard, which impacts scoring in competition. Despite these challenges, the band performed with determination and hope, showing their growth and improvement over the year.
“Of course there’s more work to do, but I’m really proud of the band,” said drum majors Ava Diaz and Abigail Bermudez. “They held us together and gave it their all.”
The Yellowjacket regiment will be out on the field again for their second competition on Oct. 18 at Chaffey High School in Ontario.
