With the close of the season, the Marching Chargers achieved a second consecutive all-superior season this year under the leadership of Northwood’s new band director, Jason Freeman.
“I think we had a successful marching season this year, but we have also learned a lot about how to do things better next year. If we can implement some improvements before the next marching season, we will hopefully see even more success next fall,” Freeman said.
The marching band prepared all season long for their competitions and assessments, rehearsing some days until nine o’clock at night. In the beginning, the band struggled adapting to the new band director and had many lost opportunities to practice due to inclement weather.
“A lot of people thought we were going to have a bad season,” junior Brooklyn James said. “Despite everyone’s doubts, we stayed dedicated, put our hearts into it and came out on top.”
Each year, the marching band season has a theme that inspires the music and visuals of their shows. Competing in the largest class, Class 4A, the band performed its 2018 Field Show, “Around the World in 80 Days” at Cary Band Day. At the event, put on by Cary High School, Northwood earned their final superior rating to cap off the season.
“Getting that last superior was really gratifying,” junior Elizabeth Blake said. “It makes me want to work that much harder to achieve grand champions next year.”
Something that every Marching Charger has in common is the passion to do what they love.
“You’ve worked so hard to do something and to finally be able to show it to the world. It means everything,” said senior drum major Clayton Hinson.
Many who have participated since freshman year have formed close relationships within the band and call it a “second family.”
“This is only my first year of marching band but I have already developed so many close relationships with everyone.” freshman Brett Buckoski said.
An end to a great season has left the Chargers already planning for the future.
“I am so proud of these kids and everything they have accomplished,” Freeman said. “I am so excited to see what next year has in store for us.”
