By Marisa Dawson
The Bennington High School Badger Band had a memorable moment on Sunday, January 11, stepping into the CHI Health Center Omaha to perform as the pep band for the Creighton University women’s basketball team’s matchup against the top-ranked UConn Huskies.
Despite the Bluejays falling to the undefeated Huskies 95-54 in a game that drew 6,372 fans (one of the largest crowds in program history) the Bennington band’s energy and talent helped amp up the atmosphere in the arena. With 74 of their 106 members in attendance, the group delivered a standout performance throughout the contest.
The invitation came directly from Creighton Athletics, which runs a program inviting local high schools to fill in for their pep band during winter break. Band Director Cassi Vallis explained that Creighton initially reached out before the holidays with some dates that didn’t work, but they followed up again on short notice specifically for this high-profile women’s game against No. 1 UConn (moved to the larger CHI Health Center to pack the house).
“I think it’s just a testament to how hard they work and all the school spirit that they have- also their pride in themselves, in their band,” Vallis said in an interview. “This is not something that a school can reach out and just go to. Creighton has to reach out to those schools and invite them. So I think just having that honor of someone else, especially at Division 1 college… to think of us, especially to reach out a second time is just something that I think speaks volumes to our school, our community, and the pride that we have in what we do.”
Vallis, who previously worked at Creighton as an administrative assistant and played in their pep band as a student, called it a “full circle moment” to now lead her group there. The band played their normal hits, some new classics, and Creighton’s fight song “White and Blue,” a fun coincidence since Bennington’s pep bands are nicknamed the White Band and Blue Band.
The students were thrilled about the opportunity. “They’re really pumped about it,” Vallis noted. “They’re excited to be able to perform in an arena of that size… They’re eager, they’re hungry, they’re excited.” Creighton provided pizza for the performers, and discounted tickets were available for family, friends, and community members to support the band and help pack the house.
This performance highlights the growth of the Badger Band under Vallis’s direction. With the ensembles combined this year, there’s a stronger sense of family and confidence. Vallis praised the students for leading sections, passing on traditions, and supporting one another to push beyond their comfort zones.
Vallis emphasized the broader impact: “I think it just shows just how big the world is… It just kind of shows them that they can really pursue all of their passions in ways that maybe are more detailed than they could have thought or more unique.” The experience working with Creighton on the logistics of this event showed students how a passion for music can come through in a variety of different careers.
The band performed wonderfully throughout the game, showcasing their talent on a major scale. This opportunity highlights the excellence of the Bennington High School music program, which continues to thrive with upcoming events including district music contests, spring concerts, honor band performances, and more.
Congratulations to the Badger Band and Director Cassi Vallis on this well-deserved honor! The community is proud of how you represented Bennington in Bluejay territory.
Photos By Marisa Dawson
