By Tamas Mondovics
Two senior members of the Newsome High School marching band’s love of music along with hard work, commitment and dedication has paid off. Kevin Clancy, 18, and Emily Macias, 17, were selected to participate in the 2015 U.S. Army All-American Bowl as members of the Army All-American Marching Band during the annual game’s half-time show.
Last year’s Bowl drew more than 40,000 and was the most-watched sporting event on television over the weekend, excluding the NFL playoffs. The 2015 U.S. Army All-American Bowl will be televised live on NBC from the Alamodome, in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday, January 3, 2015, at 12 Noon CT.
The honor of being chosen was appropriately celebrated during an invitation and recognition ceremony at Newsome last month in the presence of faculty, students and representatives of the All American Bowl.
Along with the official invitations, Clancy, a marching baritone player, and Macias (mallet), received their honorary jackets in front of family, friends, fellow band members and classmates.
“It’s just surreal to be here, and to have this honor of being selected,” said Macias, who aside of her musical talent is sporting a 5.7 GPA. “I was very happy when I found out especially knowing that I was selected out of so many that have applied from around the country.”
Clancy, whose current GPA is at 4.4, had similar expressions of being selected when he said, “It is truly an honor to be a part of this and to perform alongside so many talented students.”
The honor both students are referring to is unmistakable as the U. S. Army All-American Marching Band represents the best of high school marching musicians and color guard members with the selection given to only 125 students from thousands of applications.
The actual appointment is based on outstanding musicianship, marching skill, academic standing, leadership potential and maturity.
In a speech addressing the students, U.S. Army SFC John Fulton acknowledged the students’ participation in a very rigorous audition for the appointment.
“By being selected, these band members join an elite group,” Fulton said. “They are chosen not just because they excel in music, but because they embody the same values of our Army Strong Soldiers – values like loyalty and respect.”
For more information, visit www.usarmyallamericanbowl.com.
