CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — While the Illini football team was away competing in Washington on Saturday, Gies Memorial Stadium was buzzing with excitement for a different event.

Hundreds of spectators filled the stands to witness the State Marching Band Championship, where over forty teams from various parts of Illinois, categorized into six classes, showcased their talent in pursuit of top honors.

Among the competitors was Mahomet-Seymour, the current Governor’s Grand Champion. Their band director, Michael Stevens, shared that the team had been diligently preparing for this championship since June.