The Brahman Band poses with their state finalist banner. [Photo courtesy OHS Brahman Band]

ITZEL MARTINEZ

OKEECHOBEE- The Okeechobee High School Brahman Band performed at the Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) at Florida International University’s Pitbull Stadium on Nov. 8.

The Brahman Band placed fifth in their region and earned a score of 81.525, which is the highest score Okeechobee has ever received at FMBC.

“We were obviously extremely excited with our score,” said OHS Band Director Clint LaFlam. “We just missed fourth place by .4 of a point and third place by less than 3 points. The students really pushed hard all year and to end on such a positive is a great feeling.”

The Brahman Band placed fifth last year at FMBC as well. The program has consistently found success over the years and maintained their standard of excellence. In 202 the Brahmans were chosen to move on to the finals. Over 60 of the best bands from around Florida participated in Okeechobee’s 5A semifinal and only 32 were selected for finals. That year Okeechobee finished in fifth place and a score of 80.8 for the season, which was their highest score ever. Until this year, when they scored 81.525.

The Brahman's performance earned them the highest score in the band's history. [Photo courtesy OHS Brahman Band]

“The past nineteen years I have been here,” explained LaFlam, “the standard has been, ‘be better than you were yesterday’. I don’t like to compare previous bands to the current one. Every year has its own challenges and strengths. I want the kids to focus on what they can control and that is their attitude and effort.  Laying the groundwork during band camp is a key to a successful season.”

The band’s success wouldn’t be possible without substantial support from both parents and community sponsors. Our Village Okeechobee provided breakfast bags and other supplies for band members, and other supplies. Nunez Lawncare and Landscaping  and Nunez Customs provided a custom OHS Brahman Band wrap for the trailer that carried the band’s equipment.

Greg Hernandez of G&M trucking pulled the band’s semi-trailer, while Christy and Erik Schneider pulled the band’s small trailer. A few parents volunteered to photograph the band at their events throughout the year. Those photos are shared on the OHS Brahman Band’s Facebook page.

“It takes a lot of people to move this group of 120 people,” said Band booster Cheryl Worlow. “We can’t do it without the support of our community members, family and friends.”