The Susquehannock Marching Band won their fifth consecutive championship competition on Nov. 1 at New Oxford High School, their eighth win in 10 years.

The marching band was awarded a score of 95.35 out of 100 and was awarded for the best music, overall effect and percussion performance.

Prior to the competition, the marching band was ranked third overall, behind Williamsport and Whitehall’s bands.

Sophomore and color guard member Micayla Connell expressed surprise at the band’s win.

“We did not think we were going to win because we were in third by 0.2 of a point, and Whitehall has been our biggest competitor for years,” Connell said. “No one thought we were going to win because of how we have been placing for the past few weeks, so it was a huge relief and happy surprise that we won.”

The competition contains several different components that are ranked out of 100. The ensemble visuals, field music, ensemble music, overall effect, color guard and percussion are ranked based on the composition of a central idea that the performance revolves around and the execution of that idea. In scoring, the color guard received its highest score of 92, and the percussion scored a 99. Judges are not permitted to award a score above 99 to the sections competing.

The performance contained several theatrics and strong performances, including dramatic movements from junior band member Weylin Kane and passionate playing from senior band member Addie Stewart.

Band director Wesley Harler is impressed with the efforts put in by the marching band and feels that the improvement made from the past is what truly brought success.

“It is a 7-minute performance that is loaded with incredible moments for the audience to enjoy and the performers to shine,” Harler said. “Within the first two minutes of the show, every section is featured. There are solos, large ensemble impacts, props, drill design that has the team flying around the field, visuals, an electronic wind instrument and big ending. Each section of the group has their time to shine, it is a true team effort.”