ALJ Marching Crusaders Prepare for Fall 2026 Competition Season in Clark

Three afternoons a week, the Arthur L. Johnson Marching Crusaders are back on the practice field in Clark, preparing for a fall competition schedule that runs through November 1.

The band's 2026 halftime show is called "Fractured." On Friday evenings, members perform in the stands alongside the ALJ football team before shifting to weekend competition mode.

Competition Schedule

The Crusaders' first away competition is Saturday, September 19, at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School. From there, the schedule continues: September 26 at Union High School, October 3 at John P. Stevens High School, and October 17 at East Brunswick High School.

The final two dates are NJMBDA-sanctioned championships. The NJMBDA Class Championships take place October 24 at Piscataway High School, followed by the NJMBDA Garden State Cup on November 1 at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ).

Looking Ahead

Senior spotlights on Paige Porciello, Angelica Milara, and Elle Reichenbach are planned as the season progresses.

Union County Life covers Clark school programs and community events as part of its ongoing coverage of Clark and the other 20 Union County municipalities.

Find more Clark events, school news, and community information on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: When does the ALJ Marching Crusaders' fall season start?
A: The band practices three afternoons a week starting immediately, with the first away competition on Saturday, September 19, at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School.

Q: What is the 2026 halftime show called?
A: The 2026 halftime show is called "Fractured."

Q: Where can I watch the Crusaders perform?
A: Band members perform in the stands on Friday evenings with the ALJ football team. They also compete at various high schools during weekend competitions throughout September, October, and early November.

Q: What are the away competition dates?
A: The competition dates are September 19 at Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS, September 26 at Union HS, October 3 at John P. Stevens HS, and October 17 at East Brunswick HS.

Q: When are the state championships?
A: The NJMBDA Class Championships are October 24 at Piscataway High School, and the NJMBDA Garden State Cup is November 1 at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ).

Q: When does the fall season end?
A: The fall competition season runs through November 1, 2026, when the final championship competition takes place at TCNJ.

Q: Are there senior spotlights planned?
A: Yes. Senior spotlights on Paige Porciello, Angelica Milara, and Elle Reichenbach are planned during the season.

Q: Where is Arthur L. Johnson High School?
A: Arthur L. Johnson High School is located in Clark, New Jersey.