The Pride of Eufaula band earned the OSSAA State Sweepstakes Award in Class 4A during the OSSAA State Concert Band Contest held Thursday, April 2, at East Central University.

The Sweepstakes Award is the highest honor a high school band can achieve in Oklahoma. To earn the distinction, bands must receive superior ratings at the OSSAA Regional Marching Contest in the fall, as well as superior ratings at both the district and state concert band contests in the spring, including performance and sight-reading components.

The Pride of Eufaula met each of those standards, showcasing consistent excellence throughout the school year.

Band members performed on stage at the state contest and were also recognized alongside senior band members and directors Rusty Helms and Michelle Barnes.

Directors credited the achievement to the dedication and hard work of the students, as well as the support of band boosters, parents and the Eufaula community. They also expressed appreciation for Eufaula Public Schools administration and staff, the Eufaula School Board and local first responders for their continued encouragement of the program.

The award marks a significant accomplishment for the Pride of Eufaula and reflects months of preparation, discipline and commitment by its student musicians.