“All three of us were nominated by our marching band director, Steve Aylward,” Lutz said. “After we were nominated, we had to send in three video auditions: one video was of us spinning flag, one was of us spinning rifle, and the last one was a self-introduction video.
“We were not chosen based on just our spinning capabilities. They took into consideration our grades, volunteer history and other hobbies and jobs we have outside of color guard. … I went into the process with my expectations set very low, and, when I found out that I had made it, I was pleasantly shocked.”
The U.S. Army All-American Marching Band recognizes the top 125 high school senior marching musicians and color guard members from across the country, showcasing their talents during the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, held Jan. 9.
“I was with Devin and Emily when we received our emails, and we were all so honored and excited to have this prestigious opportunity to represent our school,” added Bennett.
The MHS seniors receive an all-expenses-paid week-long trip to San Antonio to rehearse and perform with the finest young musicians in the country. Only six other students from Ohio were selected, including Troy High School student Kane Feltner who plays tenor saxophone.
Bennett, Goralski and Lutz will keep their spinning and performing skills sharp in the coming months as part of the school’s fall and winter guard seasons. Once they arrive in Texas, they will spend most of the week rehearsing.
“The guard doesn’t learn any of the show until we get there, but I’ll be keeping my skills sharp with my team over the coming season before the bowl and getting excited for the bowl,” Goralski explained.
“I am actively involved in fall color guard with the marching band, and winter guard kicks off shortly after the season ends. This allows me to continue my technique and practice etiquette throughout the time leading up to the bowl,” added Bennett.
This trip will offer the girls an opportunity to connect with other marching band members across the country.
“I’m very excited to get this opportunity to meet people from all over the country who love what we love as much as Sierra, Devin and I do,” Goralski said.
“It will be a transformative experience to meet people from around the country. Also, performing in the Alamodome is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I wouldn’t trade for the world,” Bennett said.
For Lutz, the experience will also include her first airplane trip.
“I can’t wait to perform in front of such a large audience, and this will be my first time on a plane,” she said. “I’m a little nervous, but mainly excited, especially because the other two girls offered me the window seat.”
After graduation, Bennett plans to attend The Ohio State University to study biological sciences with the long-term goal of attaining a doctorate to pursue medical research. Goralski wants to study mechanical engineering at a large university. Lutz hopes to attend Kettering Medical College and major in ultrasound.
“I’m so unbelievably lucky to receive this once-in-a-lifetime chance, but I’m even luckier to be able to share it with two of my closest friends,” Lutz said. “I’ve been spinning with Sierra since second grade and with Emily since sixth grade. We’re with each other all of the time, even over the summer when we lifeguard together, and I definitely consider them family. I love these girls and can’t wait to have a fantastic time in San Antonio together.”
The All-American Marching Band's performance can be viewed live on NBC and will also be available online at www.banddirector.com.
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