Oakton High's marching band puts on a halftime show at every home football game. Homecoming was no different.

"It's not about doing something different," said Dr. Cheryl Newton, band director. "The reason marching band exists is to support the football team. We do our halftime routine and we have songs we play in the stands, all to support them."

Oakton High celebrated homecoming with a 35-21 victory Friday and a dance Saturday.

Hope Payne, junior sousaphone player, and Jennifer Riddle, senior trumpeter, said that though the halftime show didn't change, the atmosphere at homecoming is different from a typical football game.

"We had to play extra loud and energetic for this crowd," said Riddle, of Oakton.

Payne, of Oak Hill, enjoyed the lively climate.

"It's exciting because usually the games don't have this many people," said Payne, who hopes to pursue a music major at James Madison University and participate in the marching band at the collegiate level.

Oakton Band Boosters hoped to reap the benefits of the increased attendance.

"We were told to expect a bigger crowd, so we've got two more people than normal helping us," said Lisa Stewart, whose freshman son plays the trumpet.

Proceeds from the boosters' clothing and accessories sales, after the cost of materials, go toward instruments, equipment and the band trip. The boosters help students who cannot afford the annual event. This March, the band will travel to Florida and Disney World for competition.

The marching band will compete Saturday in the fourth annual Showcase of Bands, hosted by Midlothian High School. On Oct. 16, Oakton High will host the Oakton Classic, which will feature an exhibition performance from West Virginia University's Pride of West Virginia marching band.