They’re the kids you hear crooning in concurrence after school most every day, out on their practice field. They’re the kids who rush the field at the half times of soaking football games and play until they’re pulled off. They’re the kids whose sabers poke you in the hall and whose moves with their flags dazzle you.

They’re Marching Band and Color Guard kids, and their season is ending after this week.

Percussionist Dan Stupp-Ratican, senior, is excited for the Band’s final competition.

“The season’s ending and our last competition is this weekend at Francis Howell.”

Stupp-Ratican said the season had a few rough spots, but they’ve finished with a good show.

Drum Major Jordan Kubot, senior, agrees with Stupp-Ratican.

“The season was a little slow to start, but we were able to pull together.”

The theme for the season was duality, Stupp-Ratican said.

“It was all about love and loss and conflict,” Stupp-Ratican said. “It was a cool concept. We got to show a lot of contrast – slow music, and then really intense, fast music. Our instructor, Herschell Clark, wrote the percussion part and it was great.”

Stupp-Ratican said this season will be his last.

“As a senior, I won’t have any more seasons,” Stupp-Ratican said. “While it’ll be nice to have some free time, I’ll still miss it. But Winter Drumline starts in two weeks. And the Guard kids are ready for Winter Guard to start next week.”

“Everyone should come out and support us at Francis Howell this weekend,” Kubot said. “Or come to the football game Friday and cheer.”