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The marching band was one of a few selected from across the country to perform in several competitions throughout the week and in the parade. The event was a prelude to the college football playoff game between the University of Washington and the University of Alabama. Alabama won handily, 24-7.
And while the Alabama football team enjoyed their time playing in the Georgia Dome, Thomas said the Springfield band did, too.
“Probably one of the neatest rehearsal, performances ever was at the Georgia Dome,” she said. “The kids were kind of in shock getting to perform in such a huge space.”
The marching band didn’t get to play at halftime of the football game, but did get to practice in the dome before the game.
“A lot of the parents were there to see them play,” the band director said.
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Alabama and Springfield High also enjoyed an impromptu dance-off that pitted the Springfield Wildcat mascot and the Alabama Elephant Mascot in a battle for the title of best dancer before the parade started Saturday. The winner of the dance-off wasn’t as clear as who won the football game.
“The last day they got to perform in the Peach Bowl parade and that was one of the most memorable experiences they will probably take back,” Thomas said.
Along with competing and performing, the band did get to relax a little and enjoy the sites.
“Even on the ride down, once we got to Tennessee the kids started seeing mountains and I don’t think many of them saw mountains before,” Thomas said.
In Atlanta, the band members got to visit the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola and Olympic Park. The trip cost each student $781. The band raised money throughout the year to help cover costs.
The Springfield High School Marching Wildcats are led by Thomas and Co-Band Director Brad Dragics, Assistant Director Giovanna Pinto and Drill Team Advisor Regan Rakestraw.
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