Garinger High School’s Blue Funk Sound Machine has been named the official band for the Carolina Ascent FC professional women’s soccer team. The school website highlandrenaissancees.cmsk12.org reported that the ensemble made its debut at the team’s home opener on Aug. 29 at American Legion Memorial Stadium.
Band director Chevis Anderson stated that this season-long partnership provides students with professional performance experience while introducing the soccer team to more students and families in the community. Anderson noted that students reacted with excitement upon learning of their selection and maintained high energy throughout the event by leading chants and dance moves. He added that the group performed from a position behind the crowd, projecting sound across the stadium.
Tenth-grade section leader Casey Diaz emphasized the rigorous rehearsal process required to prepare music and coordinated movements for the occasion. Senior band captain Johnston Romero described the opportunity as a significant milestone, noting that seeing audience members dance along and chant increased student confidence. Anderson expressed deep pride in the students’ ability to balance academic responsibilities with extensive band commitments throughout the day. The director characterized the group as more than a marching band, calling them a family. The ensemble is scheduled to perform during pregame, halftime and postgame activities at home matches.
For more information, visit highlandrenaissancees.cmsk12.org.