By Scott Metz

Altus High School junior Gunnar Doughty is passionate about band. He plays flute and has been playing it for six years.

Gunnar is involved at Altus High School with marching band, pep band, and traditional band. Gunnar elaborated, “We do not have chairs for marching season, but typically top three for the lower band, ‘traditional’ band, marching band, and pep band.”

Asked what it means to represent his school and community while in band, Gunnar has the following belief, “Show up to any game possible and set a good example for future classes.”

In regard to a teacher that has made an impact on Gunnar’s life, he did not hesitate to answer. Gunnar stated, “Without question, Mr. Hastings has impacted me.  If it was not for him, I would not be in band.”

To get where he’s gotten in band, Gunnar chalks it up to a recipe of “practice, not getting too frustrated, and patience.”

When it comes to motivation for Gunnar, he looks towards those close to him. Gunnar accounted, “Friends and family definitely motivate me. Without them I would not wake up mentally ready to go every day to do my best.”

Many memories are made in high school, especially in band. Asked his favorite memory thus far of being in band, Gunnar stated, “My favorite memory was getting my letter.”

In terms of honors and awards Gunnar has received while a student at Altus High School, Gunnar stated, “I have won 3 CrossFit competitions, I have won 1st place in a science fair, and letter in both band and powerlifting.”

Besides being a part of bands at Altus High School, Gunnar is involved in powerlifting, is involved in track, and plays football.

After graduating from high school, Gunnar plans on pursuing higher education. Gunnar stated, “After high school, I plan to possibly go to Western Oklahoma State College for engineering, or somewhere for powerlifting.”