Jordan-Elbridge Marching Eagles Capture 15th State Championship Title

The Jordan-Elbridge Marching Eagles soared to victory once again, capturing the New York State Field Band Conference Small School 3 Championship title at the JMA Wireless Dome with a score of 83.2. This marks the band’s 15th state championship and first since 2018—a fitting triumph in the program’s 50th anniversary year.

Under the direction of Dan English, the Marching Eagles impressed both judges and fans with their 2025 field show, “Play Well, A LEGO Story.” The imaginative production explores the boundless creativity of a child through the medium of LEGO—where there are no preconceived rules or limits, only pure invention. As the show unfolds, the audience is invited on a vibrant journey through the child’s mind, watching ideas come to life and build in real time on the field.

“We are so proud of all our students in the Marching Eagles,” said English. “This is our district’s 15th state championship, and it fell on an extra special year being our 50th anniversary. The students showed heart all year, never giving up under any circumstances. They pushed through the hot days of summer and the rainy days of fall, all while having the same goal in mind. Their commitment to the process and love of the journey is inspiring to the staff. We are so excited to see what comes next for these students and the program here at Jordan-Elbridge.”

Adding to what was already a memorable day for the Jordan-Elbridge community, former JE teacher and longtime marching band director Jim A’Hearn was inducted into the New York State Field Band Conference Hall of Fame. The honor highlighted his decades-long influence on music education and the marching arts across New York State.

In a remarkable full-circle moment, four of A’Hearn’s former students—now accomplished marching band directors themselves—presented him with the award. Those four directors led their bands to the top four scores in the morning show at the state championships:

• Oswego (SS2 #1) – 87.350, Director Kim Miller

• Mohonasen (SS2 #2) – 86.250, Director Jason Varga

• Westmoreland (SS2 #3) – 85.000, Director Kristyn Cutler

• Jordan-Elbridge (SS3 #1) – 83.200, Director Dan English

The moment reflected both A’Hearn’s lasting impact and the strong legacy of mentorship that continues to define the Jordan-Elbridge music program.

The 2025 season will long be remembered not only for its championship title but also for its celebration of creativity, community and tradition—values that continue to make the Marching Eagles one of the most respected and inspiring programs in New York State.