When the chance to compete for a state title comes around every other year, you have to make the most of your opportunity.

The marching bands of Bowie and Nocona High Schools will take to the field for University Interscholastic League marching contests on Oct. 17 as they bands pursue a chance to advance to the state competition.

Unlike other UIL team contests, marching bands do not advance to state each year in every category. The conferences alternate years.

The Mighty Marching Maroon will travel to Wichita Falls for the UIL Marching contest on Oct. 17 at Memorial Stadium. Director Aaron Martin said the 3A bands will march starting at 1:15 p.m. with Jacksboro opening the division, followed by Henrietta, Breckenridge, City View, Bowie (2:15 p.m.) and Holliday.

All bands that receive a first division will advance to area on Oct. 24, with those top performers going to state.

Pride of the Tribe Nocona High School Marching Band will perform at 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 17 for UIL contest in the Denton Collins Athletic Complex.

Director Patrick Flanikan, who is in his first year as NHS director, said they will be the fourth of six 3A bands as they fall in the middle of the pack on the schedule. Callisburg opens the division, followed by Boyd, Ponder, Nocona, Paradise and Pilot Point.

Read the full story on these bands in the mid-week News.