They say military bands never advance at UIL marching contest.

The Grand Band from Eagle Land proved that wrong this year.

The band competed in the UIL marching band contest at McGregor High School this past Saturday and received three 1’s for the first time in 18 years. The band has advanced to area and will compete at 3:45 p.m. in Robinson this Saturday.

“This was a complete shock,” band director Russell Holland said. “I knew we were doing well but straight ones has completely blown us all away.”

Holland became band director this year after former band director Bill Large retired. Holland had previously served as assistant band director under Large.

“I feel very excited,” senior drum major Yadira Yepez said. “Right now we’re all trying our best to advance to state. I think the way we are working right now, we have a very good chance. Sometimes we get on the field, and it’s just amazing.”

The band has been working on the routine, which includes a waterfall step and the traditional starburst configurations, since August.

“We worked hard with all of those Monday night practices and marching those mornings,” senior drum major Nicolas Martinez said. “It really paid off.”

The band practices every day at school and every Monday evening.

“We just have to clean up what we are already doing and discipline ourselves to the very best every time,” Holland said. “I’m so proud of the Grand Band From Eagleland for what they did. Their hard work is finally paying off.”