The Mineola Mustangs Marching Band won its seventh New York state championship on Nov. 1, taking the 2026 New York State Field Band Conference Championship at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse with a score of 94.025 in the SS1 division.
According to longislandpress.com, the victory marks the program’s fourth SS1 title in five years, adding to championships the district said the band earned in 2022, 2023 and 2025, when it set a division record with a score of 95.050.
Band Director Ken Kamping, the marching band staff and student performers were recognized by the district for their dedication throughout the season. The district noted that the students’ musicianship, perseverance and commitment brought another championship home to Mineola.
After the competition, students returned to Mineola High School to a celebratory welcome from families, friends, school staff and community members, who cheered as the band arrived with the trophy. The reception recognized the months of preparation, rehearsals and teamwork behind the performance.
The district said the championship reinforces the program’s standing among New York’s top marching bands and highlights the consistency of the Mustangs’ success in one of the state’s competitive divisions.
For more information, visit longislandpress.com.