GUYTON, Ga. — Under the blazing July sun, South Effingham High School band students hit the field with water bottles in hand and determination in their steps, kicking off another spirited season of band camp.

The camp, which began July 7, marks the official start of preparations for the Mustangs’ fall performances — including a new theme show titled “Parkour.” For 123 student musicians, color guard members and percussionists, the weeklong camp is a mix of sweat, teamwork and tradition — and it’s all orchestrated by longtime band director Sean McBride, now in his 27th year.

“The kids are putting in nine and a half hours a day,” McBride said. “It’s slightly more than we do once school starts, but they come ready to work.”

Each day begins with a stretch block and count recitations, followed by uniform fittings, music preparation and movement training. The goal: to master complex formations, memorize music and build the physical stamina needed to perform with precision.

On the field, numbers and rows drawn into the grass help guide students to their spots. Off the field, hydration and meal breaks offer moments to recharge and connect.

“We have a hardworking group of students who are eager to learn,” McBride said. “It’s been a very positive atmosphere.”

That sense of camaraderie is central to the camp experience, said junior drum majors Kaylee Risher and Trenton White — who refer to themselves as “partners in crime.”

“Band camp is such a bonding experience,” Risher said. “We’re all tired, hot and sweaty — but we’re doing it together. We make sure no one is left sitting alone.”

The camp includes meet-and-greet activities to welcome newcomers, along with fun traditions passed down by alumni. One favorite: the paddle, a decorated wooden board awarded daily to the “best section” of the band.

“Everyone gets so excited about it,” Risher said.

The band’s fall performances — especially the energetic “Parkour” show — have been in development since last year. McBride and his team oversee every aspect, from music and choreography to props and drill design.

White hopes audiences appreciate the skill and effort behind each performance.

“We have to know exactly where to be, when to move, how to move — and what to play while doing it,” he said. “People don’t think it’s a sport, but it definitely is.”