Due to the collaborated efforts of the Becton principal, Dr. Sforza, the music instructor, Mr. Moore, and the president of the band parent booster club, Mr. Wojna, the marching band has received new uniforms for the first time in approximately ten years.

According to Mr. Moore, who noted that the band participates in football games, competitions, festivals and parades annually, these uniforms will serve many purposes as far as representing Becton Regional High School.

“The purchase wouldn’t have been possible without the rigorous efforts of the principal, the parents and the generous funds provided by many, including Jersey Mike’s Subs, a band parent booster club and the Becton Board of Education,” mentioned the music teacher.

“A group of band parents met with the administration and school board during the 2016-2017 school year regarding funding for band uniforms,” said Dr. Sforza, and as opposed to waiting, the school pushed forward with making the purchase possible.

The Becton principal noted that one very proactive parent in the process was Mr. Gene Wojna. “Mr. Wojna and I have been in constant contact since the initial meeting for the uniforms. He was extremely dedicated in making sure that the overall project went through,” stated Dr. Sforza.

“It was a year-long journey, but right from the start, our organization was fortunately acknowledged and supported by the Becton Board of Education and Administration. We also formed a beneficial and productive partnership with Dr. Sforza. He genuinely committed to helping our cause and was always responsive and willing to help us when we needed him. Thank you, Dr. Sforza,” said Mr. Wojna.

The final cost of purchasing 33 uniforms is approximately eleven thousand dollars. “The uniforms will not be leaving the building unless a student is wearing one for a performance,” said Mr. Moore.

When asked how the band members reacted to the new purchase, the music instructor beamed with excitement, describing how enthusiastic the students were and how much better they perform due to their pride.

Similarly, Dr. Sforza stated, “They finally feel like a team, and in my eyes, they sound like a true band program and even seem to be sounding better than ever. They coordinate, and the uniforms instill in each member a sense of school pride and commitment to the band program, to themselves and to the school. It really portrays what being a Wildcat band member is all about.”

Lastly, the Becton principal mentioned how the new uniforms provide an added incentive for other students who have been reluctant to join the band. “They may now want to be part of a team that they know the school is investing in and will continue to invest in,” he said.