From the sunny west coast of Los Angeles to the east coast of Boston, former Hoover alumni Gabe Salas made history with the Boston Crusaders on August 9, securing a groundbreaking first place with their 2025 production BOOM.

Previously a snare player in the Hoover Tornado Marching Band, Salas continued his passion for drumming by competing within various Drum Corps International and Winter Guard International groups, including Pulse Percussion and the Boston Crusaders.

“One of the most valuable lessons I learned during my summer with the Boston Crusaders was that confidence…was essential to executing our objectives at the highest level,” said Salas. “Now, I feel empowered to reach for things I once thought were out of reach.”

Salas’ mentality and ambition was one of many that brought the Boston Crusaders a record high score of 20/20 percussion. Additionally, his experience in the HTMB heavily influenced the type of drummer— and person— that he is today.

“Ever since my time at Hoover, [integrity] has been the word I’ve believed in the most. To me, integrity means doing the right thing when no one is watching. It’s about holding myself accountable…even when the circumstances don’t go my way,” explained Salas.

Current HTMB staff, many of whom marched with him, have recognized Salas for his distinct personality and as a role model for students who are currently in or are thinking of joining the HTMB program.

“[The] energy that he brought to the band was amazing— he was always so kind and positive to others. His performance energy was so intense that it was contagious,” claimed HTMB battery caption-head Erik Guzman.

“You’d be surprised at how far you can get from this band alone. Hoover has pumped out so many people who have gone on to do amazing things in the activity, just the name alone carries a reputation,” said HTMB battery tech D’Mitri Asulei. “I think Gabe is a perfect example of what happens when you have a dream and you’re hungry to make it happen.”