Write a commentA tradition has continued as once again there will be Oswego High School Marching Buccaneers at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio.
Last week, Emily King and Cassandra Hondro were officially invited to the Jan. 4, 2014 event as they were presented with their shako, jacket and cap signifying their induction into the U.S. Army All-American family. They were just two of four New York State High School students who will participate in this elite program.
For the past six years, an Oswego High School Marching Buc has been part of the San Antonio event. King and Hondro join the honor roll that includes Adam Dristle, Amanda Donovan, Heather Buske, Chelsea Bartlett, Kristen Bartholomew, Jacqueline Hondro, Thomas James, Gina Bartholomew, Jeffrey Murray and Joseph Bertonneau who have been among the elite.
"This is truly one of the highlights of the year," Scott Ciesla, Marching Bucs director, said. "These two individuals represent all that is right with Oswego High School, and all that is right in our music program. These two students are the perfect selection for this great honor. Every endeavor they pursue, they undertake with passion, integrity, dedication and a wonderful attitude. As an educator, I am inspired by students who can rise above everything and achieve something of this nature and truly set a fine example for what it means to persevere and strive for excellence."
Hondro and King had to tape auditions and complete numerous forms to be involved in the nomination process. This included a self introduction video as well as marching and music videos.
The applications went in several months ago and they were notified in August, but Hondro said, "We found out, but had to keep it hush, hush. "
This achievement means quite a bit to both young women.
"I was so excited," Hondro said. "It's really an honor to be a part of such an elite group. I was really surprised, really surprised. You kind of think about it, it would be great to be selected. It's kind of a dream. And then when you actually get the call and you have been selected, it's the greatest feeling the world. You don't expect it. And then ... it's like, wow, I am an All-American!"
King thanked her parents, friends, family, band members, the school district and U.S. Army representatives as well as her current and former teachers Stephen Defren, James Peer and Ciesla.
"I am proud to be able to represent New York State, but more importantly our school and music program,"she said. "It is no secret that Oswego has a sort of expectation to fulfill when it comes to All-American members, so it is exciting to be added to the list of students from here that have experienced what we will in January. Hopefully, we can keep the tradition going ... so juniors start working on the box drill."
Hondro, who plays piccolo, is involved in Area All-State Band, the Conference All-State Women's' Choir and Oswego High School Winter Guard.
King, who plays trumpet, is a member of the Area All-State Orchestra, the Conference All-State Band and is first chair in the Oswego High School Wind Ensemble, jazz and symphonic band.
Both Hondro and King were very appreciative of the fact that the U.S. Army is supporting high school music and providing the elite high school band members in the nation the unique and rare opportunity to perform at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
