Eastern Regional’s Marching Vikings going after three-peat

VOORHEES, N.J. (WPVI) — Hailing from Voorhees, New Jersey, the Marching Vikings of Eastern Regional High School are making noise-and not just with their instruments.

Led by Marine veteran and professional musician John Stanz, the band is chasing its third consecutive Atlantic Coast Championship.

“The idea of teamwork, being accountable for yourself and for others, we really push teamwork,” Stanz said.

These student musicians dedicate hundreds of hours to rehearsals, performing in front of judges at competitions and energizing football crowds on Friday nights.

“We feed off the crowd whenever they’re cheering. We use that and take it as a way to be better,” said Color Guard Captain Minna Saad.

The Marching Vikings carry a motto with them: “Be exciting, not excited,” said trumpet player Charlie Erickson, quoting one of the band’s instructors.

On Saturday, the Vikings will face tough competition at the Tournament of Bands in Williamstown, New Jersey.