The U.S. Army All-American Marching Band is in its ninth year of recognizing dedicated athletes from around the country. The band plays during the halftime show of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, the nation’s premier high school game with 90 of the nation’s best football players.

Senior Kelsey Cullen was accepted into the U.S. Army All-American Marching Band, being 1 of 25 color guard members in the nation to go and represent their school.

“I thought [that it] was a great opportunity and a great chance to work with the best of the nation and being able to grow as a leader,” Cullen said.

Cullen has been in color guard for four years.

“She has a natural talent,” color guard director Mrs. Kim Booher said.

She has been on the band leadership team for two years and is now looking forward to performing with an national advanced group.

“You don’t know if you’re going to make it until you get the email,” said Cullen. “It’s an honor.”

The process of being chosen is extensive and nerve racking. Only high school seniors can apply online by director recommendation. The students selected must obtain qualities such as musicianship, leadership, trustworthiness, and honesty. It takes athleticism and dedication to be chosen for this elite band. It creates an opportunity for hardworking students to collaborate.

“[I had] lots of practice, and support [from] my directors Mrs. Booher and Mr. Keyes, especially from my guard family,” Cullen said.

Cullen, along with 124 other students from around the country, will perform at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. NBC will live broadcast the game on Saturday, January 9, 2016.