On Saturday, October 19, the UIL Pigskin Marching Contest in La Feria brought together 3A and 4A bands from across the Lower Valley for an evening of competition and celebration. The event featured performances from 3A schools including Monte Alto, Santa Rosa, Rio Hondo, Progreso, and Raymondville, as well as 4A bands from Port Isabel and La Feria.
The competition took place between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., with each band showcasing months of preparation and hard work to an enthusiastic crowd and a panel of judges. As the performances wrapped up, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation as students, directors, and families awaited the announcement of their ratings.
One of the highlights of the evening was the Parade of Colors, where each band marched proudly in front of the home stands, playing their school’s fight song and representing their colors with pride. The energy in the stadium was electric as bands filled the field with music and spirit.
When it was time for the ratings to be announced, the stadium grew quiet. Monte Alto received a Division 2 rating for their commendable performance, while all other participating bands—including Raymondville Early College High School—earned Division 1 ratings, securing their spots at the Area Marching Contest.
As the ratings were revealed, the field erupted into a scene of joy and celebration. Students cheered, instruments played, and the Raymondville Bearkat Band, known for their spirited energy, was at the center of the celebration. With a dozen tubas rocking back and forth to the beat of the music, the band formed a lively, jubilant mob as they celebrated their Division 1 rating.
Raymondville’s Band Director, Ben Keltner, expressed his pride in the students’ efforts, saying, “This moment is what it’s all about. Our students have put in countless hours of practice, and tonight they got to celebrate that hard work. We’re ready for the next step at Area.”
With their Division 1 ratings, the Raymondville Bearkat Band now looks ahead to the 3A Area Marching Contest in Beevilleon October 26, where they will compete for a chance to advance to the state competition.
As the evening came to a close, the sense of school pride was palpable as bands continued to celebrate their achievements. For the Raymondville Bearkat Band, this night marked the first step in their march to state, and they are more determined than ever to keep the momentum going.
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