The Panther Pride, led by director Susan Clothier and drum majors Kristen Wheeler and Joe Whiteley, won first place in the class 6A preliminary competition, then followed that up in finals competition by winning the first place trophy for highest overall score. The band also had the highest marks in the competition for music, visual appeal and general effect.

Putnam City North Band's 2006 program, titled "Dancing Through Life," is based on the music from the musical Wicked.

"We had a great day at this event. Our students have worked very hard, and that hard work showed up on the field," says Clothier.

Clothier says directors Joel Illgen and Rober Hullet and technical assistants Travis Gunnells, Walker Matthews, Veronica Johnson and Ashley Bruening contribute daily to the band’s success, as do the supportive parents of band members.

"Our band booster parents are always there to help us with props, uniforms, transportation and food. We couldn’t succeed without them," Clothier says.