In only their second year competing in the 5A division, the Melissa High School Mighty Cardinal Band capped off a standout season with a 6th place finish at the UIL 5A Area B Marching Contest, a significant achievement that highlights the program’s continuous improvement and growth.
Their season included several major accomplishments, such as:
• Celina Marching Invitational 1st Place Finish
• UIL Region 25 Marching Contest Division I Rating
• UIL 5A Area B Finalist
• UIL 5A Area B Marching Contest 6th Place Finish
Band Director Kevin McNulty shared his thoughts on his first season with the Cardinals and what the show represented, "The 2025 Melissa Marching Band show titled, Growing Forward, celebrates the growth of the band, Melissa ISD, and the community of Melissa. In my 20 years of teaching, I've never witnessed a band develop at such a remarkable pace. The achievements of these students are truly incredible. With 67% of the band consisting of underclassmen, they competed successfully at a high level by the end of the year. The future looks exceptionally bright for the Melissa band!"
Student leadership echoed that pride, “This season’s success went far beyond placements. This year’s band redefined our culture and what is possible.” Band President, senior Steven Rodriguez, spoke to the deeper meaning of the season’s work, “Real success came when we learned to take pride in our day-to-day operations, embracing grit, valuing every rep, and understanding that perfection lives in the details.”
Drum Major Addie Thomas reflected on the experience from start to finish, "From our first day at band camp all the way to our final performance, I'm so grateful to have watched the band grow together. At the end of the day, I can look back and say that all of those long days were worth it."
Melissa ISD congratulates the Mighty Cardinal Band on an exceptional season. Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence continue to inspire our students, families, and community. We are proud of everything they accomplished this year and look forward to what the future holds for this outstanding program.
The band will perform Growing Forward one final time during the special post-game Fifth Quarter Showcase at this Friday’s football game, giving the community one last chance to enjoy the show that defined a remarkable season.