For many people, fall marks the start of football season. And while this is true for my family (Go Steelers!), fall is better known to us as marching band season.

Some people don't understand what all the band does, other than march at half-time at football games for the entertainment of the crowd. But that isn't the sole purpose of a high school marching band. Believe it or not, there are actually competitions in which these kids go and compete against other bands. They are judged for their musical abilities, their movement, visuals, and practically anything else that the judges think they should be critiqued on.

Competition time can be stressful for everyone involved; from the smallest freshman who is scared out of their mind of their first performance, to the directors running around all day and night to make sure everyone is where they're supposed to be and behaving as they should. For me, I've seen both sides now. I've been the scared little freshman, and as I write this article, my roommate (who got a job as a high school colorguard director this season) is running around the apartment at light speed fixing uniforms for upcoming contests. It's a stressful time, with what seems like very little pay off if your band doesn't do well in competitions.

But I'm here to tell you that it doesn't really matter.

Sure, you need to put your best out there on the field. Give it your all and make every moment count. Remember your step sizes, wherein the rests you've learned to strategically take a breath before playing again, and think about the strength you put into your tosses. Think about all of that and show the world what your band can do. But it is not the end of the world if you don't do well.

Throughout my early band years, I was used to making 3rd or 4th at state competition. My senior year, well, we made 11th. I remember not talking to anyone that night. I ignored my parents, my brother, and everyone else who tried to console me. I just couldn't believe that my last year, my last chance to leave my mark on the world of the Crimson Cadets, and we did horrible.

But does it matter? No.

The truth of it is, it doesn't matter. It may seem like a big deal if your band doesn't do well, but it won't matter years from now.

In a few years, when you're reminiscing with your past band friends, you won't talk about losing at competitions. You'll talk about the bus rides there and back. You'll talk about the times you spent laughing and having the time of your life. You'll remember the great shows you managed to put on together, and making something wonderful as a team, despite what the judges thought.

So this contest season, try your hardest, but don't think your whole life revolves around winning a competition that won't matter in 10 years. Just remember the good times with your fellow band kids, and you'll thank me later.

Good luck out there!