It is a big honor for high schools in Elkhart County ― they have not one, not two, not three, but four high school marching bands heading to the state finals.

Northridge, Concord, Fairfield and Goshen high schools will all compete, and Goshen is ready for a challenge.

The Goshen High School marching band has been to the state finals more than 20 times, but this year is different. For the first time, they are the smallest school in their class.

“We definitely do feel a little pride in that aspect,” said Josh Kauffman, asst. band director. “That we are a smaller school and were competing with schools twice our size. And they have twice the student population to pull from, so, you know, we've worked hard and we are just going to bask in it when we're done there.”

“It is a bit overwhelming to be in class A,” said senior drum major Erica Badowski. “This is our first time making it to state in class A, and its definitely a big deal, where we’re with all the big dogs now. We made history and we're excited about that.”

Students have put a lot of time, practice and effort to get them to this point, and hope to end this competition on a winning note.

“I know that it’s not necessarily the place we get, but that we did our personal best and that's what matters,” said Elise Goodman, who plays the flute.

Goshen will have its work cut out for them. Five of the Class A marching bands competing with them have gone on to win first place in the national competition.