The Pride of Lindale Band received their 45th consecutive first division rating at the regional UIL marching contest on October 19 at Stephen F. Austin University (SFA) and placed sixth at the UIL area regional marching contest on October 26th, one placement away from qualifying for UIL state.

“[I am] very proud of the kiddos,” head band director Steven Moore said. “They have worked real hard all year long. Keeping the streak going is something that’s always on our mind. We work on how good we can be and then try to let [the rating] take care of itself.”

The regional competition is held at SFA. Bands across the region take turns performing in front of three judges who observe with a birds’ eye view from the press box and rate bands on a scale of one to five. 

“This year it’s a newer team, and we have 3 first year junior drum majors,” head drum major Kaylee Petty said. “We all work very hard together, and we all focus on our task.”

Moore has taught the Pride of Lindale band for over 30 years. Furthermore, he has taught as the head band director for 24 years, maintaining this streak each year of his tenure. 

“[The streak is] strong, all [the] classes are deep and strong,” Moore said. “We have great staff and great support from the school [administration].”

The band began weekly practices for this competition on August 1. Additionally, the band practiced for the competition hours before with a full performance, and the band will compete at the National Association of Military Marching Bands (NAMMB), their final marching competition of the year, Saturday at SFA.

“I love the dynamic,” Petty said. “It is a very good group. We all work together really well. It is an honor [and] it is definitely something special to be part of 45.”