Pride of Eufaula Earns Top State Band Honor

High school band receives prestigious OSSAA State Sweepstakes Award

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:08am

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A bold, abstract composition of stark, jagged geometric shapes and heavy black silhouettes in high-contrast red and white, conceptually representing the Pride of Eufaula band's accomplishment.The Pride of Eufaula band's achievement of the prestigious OSSAA State Sweepstakes Award reflects the power of dedication, discipline, and community support in building a world-class high school music program.Eufaula Today

The Pride of Eufaula band earned the OSSAA State Sweepstakes Award in Class 4A during the OSSAA State Concert Band Contest held on April 2 at East Central University. The Sweepstakes Award is the highest honor a high school band can achieve in Oklahoma, requiring superior ratings at both the regional marching contest and the district and state concert band contests.

Why it matters

The Pride of Eufaula's achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of the student musicians, as well as the strong support of the band boosters, parents, and the Eufaula community. It also highlights the excellence and consistency of the band program, which has maintained a high level of performance throughout the school year.

The details

To earn the Sweepstakes Award, 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.

  • The OSSAA State Concert Band Contest was held on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at East Central University.
  • The Pride of Eufaula band earned the OSSAA State Sweepstakes Award in Class 4A during this contest.

The players

Pride of Eufaula

The high school band from Eufaula, Oklahoma that earned the prestigious OSSAA State Sweepstakes Award.

Rusty Helms

Director of the Pride of Eufaula band.

Michelle Barnes

Director of the Pride of Eufaula band.

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What they’re saying

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

— Rusty Helms, Band Director

“We are grateful for the support of band boosters, parents and the Eufaula community, as well as the encouragement from Eufaula Public Schools administration and staff, the Eufaula School Board and local first responders.”

— Michelle Barnes, Band Director

The takeaway

The Pride of Eufaula's achievement demonstrates the power of dedication, discipline, and community support in building a world-class high school music program. Their success serves as an inspiration for other bands in Oklahoma to strive for excellence.