The Free Press, Mankato, MN

Tue, Nov 24 2009

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Wearing hearing protection during an indoor practice, percussionist Jeremy Friedrichs feels the beat through his bass drum Tuesday at Dakota Meadows Middle School. The Lancers are holding their annual weeklong preseason training to prepare for the summer season.
John Cross / The Free Press

Precision and perfection are the standards this week as the Mankato Area 77 Lancers look to follow up on last year’s record-breaking season. Pictured are Lancers working on a drill routine Tuesday at Dakota Meadows Middle School.
John Cross / The Free Press

Lancers gear up

Preseason camp kicks off competitive summer for marching band

By Tanner Kent
The Free Press

As any Lancer can attest, the preseason camp is legendary for its rigor.

“When I started as a rookie,” said senior color guard member Colleen Ehrke, “I came on Monday not knowing what to expect. But as the day progressed, I knew it fit me.

“It’s work — but a lot of fun.”

To stay relaxed during training, Lancer members enjoy daily yoga breaks and stage lunch-time cheer competitions. During the season, the team will have bike rides and movie nights.

But this week, fun takes a backseat to focus.

“The fun stuff comes later,” Blaschko said. “In other sports, you have bench players and starters. Here, everyone is a starter. Everyone has a role.”

The Lancers are coming off one of the most successful seasons in their 33-year history. In 2008, the Lancers set a record with an average judge’s score of 85.6. They earned six grand champion awards, including two during a tour of California.

The 2009 season begins Saturday with a parade in Buffalo. This year’s competition music is “Strawberry Soup.”

For more information on Lancers history and performances, visit 77lancers.fullswingsolutions.com.

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