The Bison Brigade and directors Jeff Villarreal and Eli Lopez have been spending hours in the hot Texas sun perfecting their competition routine. They’ve been adding a set at a time to halftime performances in preparation for next month’s competition. The group is hoping to earn their best score ever. 

  “This year’s Brigade has so much ambition,” Villareal said. “The outlook is so positive now, and especially for the future.” 

  Assistant Director Lopez is new to the Brigade family this season. He started over the summer and works with both the junior high band students and the Brigade. 

  “Having Eli working with us has made things better,” drum major Emma Cocking said. “He has helped the band improve in so many ways, and he worked especially hard with the drums.” 

 The Brigade will compete in Teague on Saturday and again on October 18 for their official UIL contest. They will showcase the performance, titled Legends of the Norse, at the remaining football halftimes this season. 

  “Our first few games have been fantastic, Villarreal said. “We had a great first show, which has never happened before. The confidence really keeps the energy and excitement up with this group.”