The halftime shows here at Rocklin High will be forever changed after this Friday.

Rocklin High has great Friday night traditions revolving around sports, school and spirit. However, on this upcoming Friday, Oct. 30, Rocklin High is adding a new tradition to the list: marching band.

To add on to the “pink-out” football game against Granite Bay, Rocklin will be having their first marching band performance to close the halftime show. The new music teacher this year, Mr. Tom Douglass, has worked hard on getting this long-awaited program added to the long list of Rocklin High extracurriculars.

“We have rehearsal every Monday night for two and half hours. And we have been doing this for about two months now,” Douglass said.

Just like everything else, learning something new has its challenges. There is a lot that goes into every movement, from taking precise steps to keeping bulky instruments up and balanced. Even though all the students know how to play their instruments, they still had some challenges getting started.

“I have been playing music for 10 years, but it’s still difficult playing my drums while moving at the same time, all while not bobbing and staying in line to the person next to you,” Connor Bickford explained.

Band uniforms have a very classic style that has not changed much over the years. Even though there was no marching band when the school opened, Rocklin High has had their uniforms since its opening in 1993. The uniforms were never used for competition or halftime performances, so they are essentially brand new. All they needed was a little cleanup to get the dust off and a fitting to make sure the performers look sharp.

However, with all the different pressures and distractions, everyone still seems to have their composure.

“I am extremely excited, I think we are going to do great,” said Douglass.

This Friday night should be one for the books.