Marching Spartans win at competition

SPARTA — The Sparta High School Marching Band recently competed in the 2014 Tournament of Bands Atlantic Coast Championships at West Shore Stadium in Camp Hill, Pa.

The Marching Spartans secured their slot and were invited to perform in the tournament after earning the title of 2014 NY Metro Group 3A Region Champion on Oct. 19, which was held at West Essex High School in North Caldwell.

Only the top scoring groups were represented in the competition.

Under the direction of Dr. Deborah Gianuzzi, the Marching Spartans did not let the 39 degree temperature stop them from having their performance of a lifetime.

In the end, scoring 95.1 points, the Marching Spartans received awards for Best Music, Best Visuals and Promotion from Class A to the more competitive Open Class.

They were crowned The 2014 Tournament of Bands Group 3A Atlantic Coast Champion.

Also at the competition, senior field captain Jack Donahue was awarded a $750 scholarship for his continual dedication to the marching band and music.

The competition capped a season that began with practices in July under the leadership of Drum Majors Katie Scaglione and Madeline Abatemarco, Junior Drum Major Kristen Petrucci, and Captains Eric Philippou, Madison Colaco, Megan Coyle, Brendon Strowe, Rohan Drummond, Brittany Rivera, Julian Buttitta, Nicole Sileo, Kira Manniello, Matt Rotondi, Robin Chaney and Jack Donahue.