Two local students had the time of their lives in San Antonio, Texas. Megan Sibley and Matthew Krieger recently returned from playing in the U.S. Army All-American Band at the All-American Bowl. The bowl game teams are made up of the best high school football players from around the country. Likewise the band, now in its second year, is comprised of the best high school marching band members from across the U.S. Sibley and Krieger auditioned and won spots in the band earlier this year.

"It's the best experience I've ever had," Sibley said from San Antonio during a phone interview Friday, Jan. 2. "Most of the techniques are the same as the ones we do in Fort Mill, but there are all sorts of choreography that's pretty crazy."

"It's very challenging, but we're all capable musicians and doing well," Krieger said the same day. "We're learning a lot from teachers from all over the country."

One of those teachers was already very familiar to both Sibley and Krieger. Nation Ford Band Director Martin Dickey was also invited to San Antonio to help the players practice. Dickey was asked to become a staff member with the band after sending two students to the program last year.

"It truly was an all-American group," Dickey said after returning from Texas. "I want to keep working with [the All-American Band], but I don't want to stand in anyone's way if they want to do it."

Dickey and other band directors pitched in to help Western Carolina University Band Director Bob Buckner, who led the All-American Band this year. Each year, the Army invites a college level band director to take the helm and brings in high school band directors to assist and learn. Dickey isn't sure if he'll be asked to participate again next year, but said he would love to have the opportunity again.

Sibley and Krieger had 13 and-a-half hours of practice spread over three days to learn their marching routine and songs. The band had it down in 10 and-a-half hours, Dickey said. When they weren't practicing, the kids got to take in a rodeo, a boat tour and a stroll down San Antonio's Riverwalk. They also got free meals and first class treatment, including a band lounge with all the Gatorade they could drink, he said.

"These kids were treated like Division I college football prospects," Dickey said. "All these kids will get scholarships to play in college."

"Everyone was so dedicated," Sibley said after returning home. "We didn't know each other, but we worked together well."

The experience formed several friendships, she said. Though spread across the country the students plan to keep in touch with new friends via e-mail.

"My favorite part? I just love marching around the field," Krieger said. "I miss marching season."