Return to issue home

HMB unites high school rivals

As part of its community outreach and recruiting efforts, the Husky Band traveled to Olympia on Friday, September 12, to perform during the big game between intra-city rivals Capital High School and Olympia High School. The standing-room-only crowd enjoyed the band’s pregame and halftime performances at the annual “Spaghetti Bowl” game between the two teams. Olympia High School Band Director Joe Boertmann commented:

First, it was amazing to see five of my former students participating in a college band and watching my current students treat them like rock stars. Second, after our combined rehearsal and the performances, along with the demonstration by the Husky Band, I had kids telling me they were sold on the idea of playing in the band in college. With the focus on K-20 education and finding ways to connect kids to college before they leave high school, this visit by the UW marching band was by far one of the strongest demonstrations of that focus and the energy around the band program at OHS was through the roof.

[This was] probably one of the most memorable musical events in the Olympia area ever. Having the Husky Band, UW Dance Team and announcer Frazier Cook combine with the Capital High School and Olympia High School Bands made for an unforgettable evening. Over 500 band kids all with smiles and "can you believe this is happening to us" looks on their faces.

Husky Band Director Brad McDavid stated:

The members of the Husky Band and I can’t begin to thank the Olympia community and directors Dan Lundberg and Joe Boertmann enough for their willingness to have us perform at their game and for the collective efforts of their respective bands and booster programs. Their hospitality was incredible, and it was an honor to be a part of their cherished rivalry game festivities.

Return to issue home