How many state champions do we now have for most sports? 2 per conference. Do you think that division 2 trophy for winning state gets looked at the way you're saying? No, they're going to have a parade and celebrate that win just as much!
I firmly believe we are our own worst enemy when we take the tact of your second paragraph. That belief that the kids won't put together a quality performance is the reason ATSSB was founded - TMEA made the same arguments at the time against a small school All-State band. Thank God for our students that those who founded our organization ignored these types of comments.
In the years since ATSSB was founded the programs and students across the state are better for it! That DOES make it about the kids! More kids get the opportunity to be members of an All-State band does not denigrate another All-Stater. The same way a 1A football champion is not taking away from a 6A football champion.
Coaches figured out how to garner support a long time ago. Too many of us in our profession are hung up on things about 'it won't be comparable.' I've seen what can come of things being built. Let's keep building, not just getting in our own way.
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