(Photo source, University Interscholastic League)
October 30, 2026 - The Shelbyville High School Dragon Band competed among the best in Texas at the UIL State Military Marching Contest in Conference 1A/2A and earned a bronze medal for 3rd place on Tuesday, October 27, at Baylor Stadium in Waco. The Dragon Band’s road to State included straight 1 ratings by all three judges at the 2A Region 21 Contest held in Hallsville on October 17.
(Photo source, University Interscholastic League)
The finalists competing at State against Shelbyville were Overton, Carlisle, Beckville, and Union Grove. Carlisle took first place and Union Grove second.
The band is under the direction of John Lennon and assistant directors Marcia Castaneda and Daniel Castaneda. The band is led by Kaden Sims, Drum Major. To view the 2026 UIL Military Marching Band State Program, click here. The Shelbyville Band is featured on page 11.
The Dragon Band State Military Marching Contest legacy includes:
2025 - 3rd in Finals and 2nd in Prelims (9 bands)
2024 - 2nd in Finals and 2nd in Prelims (11 bands)
2023 - 3rd in Finals and 4th in Prelims (7 bands)
2022 - 5th in Finals and 5th in Prelims (9 bands)
2020 - 5th in Finals
*State Marching Contest alternated every other year between UIL Conferences
2015 - 4th in Finals and 4th in Prelims
2013 - 4th in Finals and 3rd in Prelims
2011 - 8th in Prelims
(Photo source, University Interscholastic League)
