JACKSON – The Jackson Memorial High School Jaguar Marching Band has placed another honor in the school’s trophy case.
On Oct. 28, the 183 members of the band traveled to High Point Solutions Stadium on the campus of Rutgers University, Piscataway, and won the USBands Group VI-A New Jersey state championship, according to a press release.
In addition to winning the state title, the Jaguars also won Best Music, Best Overall Effect and Best Percussion.
The students’ day began at 7:30 a.m. as they started their warmups, sectionals and eventually their full ensemble rehearsal prior to boarding their buses at 11 a.m. for the trip to Rutgers, according to the press release.
Once at the stadium, the students suited up, grabbed their instruments and continued their preparations for their performance. Seeded No. 1 going into the championship, the Jaguars were the last band to perform and stepped onto the field at 2:41 p.m. They seized the moment and put their best foot forward, according to the press release.
While competing in a group that included five talented marching bands from around the state, there was a lot of anxiousness as the bands’ scores and positions were revealed before the public address announcer said, “Your 2017 Group VI-A New Jersey state champions, Jackson Memorial High School.”
Reflecting on the victory, drum major Matt Ebersole said, “It was a surreal moment. When they announced us as the state champs and gave us the banner and the trophy, the biggest smile came across my face and I couldn’t contain myself. Winning on that stage with this group of people is something I will never forget.”
When the students returned to Jackson, they were met by five fire trucks from local firehouses and escorted back to the high school as the trucks flashed their lights and blared their sirens, according to the press release.
Describing what it takes to achieve this type of honor, assistant band director Eric Ficarra said, “It is a long, strenuous process, but there is no more joyous feeling in the world than getting recognition for hard work, and I am thrilled that our students can now share in that sensation. I am incredibly proud of this design team and inspired by our students for what we were all able to produce this season.”
Band Director Jason Diaz expressed his satisfaction with the day’s accomplishments, saying, “What an honor it is to represent the band community, Jackson Memorial High School and the township of Jackson. The students, band staff and parent organization have put together a memorable performance that will last a lifetime.”