By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
The Otsego Band Invitational celebrated its 40th anniversary with this year’s edition, which took place Saturday, Sept. 27, at Bulldog Stadium.
The fact that the event continues to thrive is a testament to Otsego High School band family, according to OHS band director Mitch Piersma.
“I think 40 years in a row says a lot about our students, former students, parents and booster organization,” he said. “I know other festivals that have had to discontinue due to lack of help, so to be a part of something so rich in tradition and history makes me feel blessed.”
As has been the case for several years, the OBI took place the same day as the Bulldog Invitational cross country meet across the street and the Creative Arts Festival in downtown Otsego.
The OHS band participated in the Creative Arts Festival parade before heading back to the school to prepare for the OBI.
The OHS band gave the final performance of the night, meaning the band members were at the OBI for several hours.
“Our band did a great job, and I want to give a shout out to them for doing a parade, working shifts, attending the festival to cheer on other groups and then give it their all in a performance at the end of the night,” Piersma said.
And it wasn’t just Piersma who was impressed with the OHS band members.
“I also had a band director email me saying how he appreciated our students cheering them on while they performed, and how it had a positive impact on his students,” Piersma said.
In addition to seeing his own band in action, a highlight for Piersma was the participation of White Pigeon, which took part in its first competition in a long time, possibly ever.
“They did a great job,” Piersma said.
Piersma also had a “proud dad moment” when he watched his son Caleb lead the Hastings High School band as its director.
“And Hastings won the Class B part of the competition,” Piersma said.
“Honestly, every band did great, in my opinion, and it is fun to see former intern teachers directing other groups having great success, such as Mr. Sean Keck at Cassopolis. Their shows are always great.”
The Otsego Band Boosters help ensure the day runs smoothly by forming committees that handle different tasks associated with the OBI.
“We communicate with the school personnel, and they help make sure the facilities are ready to go,” Piersma said of the Band Boosters. “We coordinate with other activities that day—the Bulldog Invitational and the Creative Arts Festival—and talk with city leaders/ and law enforcement as well.
“Fortunately, we have great folks in Otsego that want to see all programs and students succeed. It takes a village, and we have one. I love Otsego.”
Piersma said the OBI judges were also impressed with how well the event ran.
“The judges really enjoyed the day and had many positive comments to the folks in the press box, such as our great announcer Dan Bushouse, Trey Dendel, who handles food services, and our videographer, Andy Leneway.”
