Two Bands, One Proud District as Alexander and United March to UIL State Competition

United Independent School District is celebrating an outstanding showing by all four of its high school marching bands at the UIL Area G 6A Marching Band Contest, where students competed against some of the top marching band programs in the region. The competition ended with two UISD schools, J.B. Alexander High School and United High School, earning their spots at the prestigious UIL 6A State Marching Band Contest in San Antonio.

Among 16 competing bands, Alexander and United delivered impressive performances in the preliminary round, finishing first and second, respectively, and advancing to the finals. Alexander went on to claim first place and the UIL Area G Championship, while United secured third place, earning UISD two of the three available qualifying spots for the state competition.

“This achievement is a testament to the dedication of UISD's student musicians, band directors, support staff, and our families, whose months of early morning practices, long rehearsals, and countless hours of preparation have led to this moment,” said UISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz. “We are all cheering you on, and I know you will continue to make UISD proud when you compete at the state level.”

The victory marks the Alexander High School band's fifth UIL Area G Championship and eighth consecutive trip to the State Marching Contest, continuing a tradition of excellence that has become a source of pride for the Bulldog community.

"Behind every successful performance is an extraordinary collective effort from our students, directors, families, and volunteers," said Alexander High School Head Band Director Ricardo Fuentes. "At the heart of this journey are 325 students, each with a different story, struggle, and aspiration. Yet despite their differences, they have learned to move together, breathe together, struggle together, and ultimately succeed together."

As Fuentes reflected on the program's success, he shared that this major win is not just about the trophies and competition results.

"Trophies will eventually gather dust, and championships will become part of our history. But the character developed, the relationships formed, and the lives changed through this experience will endure long after the final performance. That is the true measure of our success, and a legacy worth celebrating."

For the Mighty Longhorn Band, this latest accomplishment marks another proud chapter in the program’s history. Their strong and meticulous performance at Area G secured United High School’s return to the state stage, carrying forward a tradition of excellence built by generations of talented students and dedicated directors.

"Our program is just so excited to return to the State Marching Band Contest for the first time since 2023 and making our 5th trip in school history," said United High School Head Band Director Samuel Hjort.

Hjort credited the students' dedication and the strong foundation established by the program's former leadership, middle school music educators, and supportive families.

"It's no easy feat following in the footsteps of a legend like Mr. Mallon, and these amazing students have made our whole staff feel welcome and like we have been a part of the Mighty Longhorn Band tradition for years," Hjort added. "Now that we have crossed this line, a new standard has been set, one which future Mighty Longhorn Band members are able to strive towards."

He also recognized the parents whose fundraising efforts, assistance with props, and continued support have played an important role in the band's success.

UHS performing at the UIL Area G Marching Band Contest.

This year's competition also marks a special milestone for United ISD. Alexander and United have advanced to the State Marching Contest together only twice before, in 2018 and 2023. Their third shared appearance is another proud moment for both schools, and the Laredo community.

"Our students, educators, families, and community are putting Laredo on the map, elevating excellence, and setting the standard as the beacon of excellence in South Texas," said UISD Fine Arts Director Joshua Martinez.

Martinez also encouraged the community to come together in support of both bands as they prepare to represent Laredo on the state's biggest marching band stage.

"Let's show up with pride and give them the support they have earned," Martinez added.

The UIL 6A State Marching Band Contest will take place on Monday, November 9, at the Alamodome in San Antonio. The Longhorn Band is scheduled to perform at 11:45 a.m. and the Bulldog Band will take the field at 9:00 p.m. later that day.

“Congratulations to you all on this incredible accomplishment! Thank you, Mr. Fuentes, Mr. Hjort, all our directors, and everyone involved for all you do to support our students and provide them with these amazing opportunities,” shared Rebecca Coss-Morales, UISD Superintendent of District Administration and Student Services. “We are so proud of all of you! Way to represent UISD at the state level!”  

As Alexander and United prepare for state, the district invites families, alumni, and the entire Laredo community to proudly wear their school colors and fill the Alamodome stands in support of these talented student musicians.

The community is also invited to wish both bands the best of luck at their send-offs, scheduled for this Sunday, November 8. Lineup for United High School will begin at 11:30 a.m. along International Boulevard near UHS. Alexander will line up at the SAC along Santa Claudia Lane beginning at 3:30 p.m. Bring your signs and make some noise for the state-bound send-offs!

UHS directors proudly displaying their State-Bound banner.

AHS directors proudly displaying their Area Champions banner.