Mighty Hawk Band Boosters Tee Off for a Cause

(This article was written by Beth Marie Cantu Ensign and was featured in the November 2025 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine.)

When the Harlingen South Mighty Hawk Band steps onto the field, their performances are a result of countless hours of dedication—not just from the students and staff, but also from a devoted group of parents and supporters working behind the scenes. The Mighty Hawk Band Boosters, a nonprofit organization, is committed to ensuring band students have the best possible experience.

“We’re separate from the school, and we’re there just to support the Harlingen South Band program,” says treasurer Nathan Echon. “We’re made up of the parents and friends of the band students, and our mission is really just to create an environment where our students can have the best possible experience in the band program, in whatever form that takes.”

The band boosters provide support in many forms, from financial contributions to hands-on help. “We support the band in a lot of different ways,” Echon explains. “A big part of our support comes from… fundraising and purchasing of things that the band needs, whether it be equipment or meals or things like that. But we do everything you can think of—from handing out water after performances, providing moral support, even washing uniforms. Anything the band needs, we are there to support them the whole way.”

What truly sets this group a part, Echon believes, is the dedication of its members.

“Everyone in the organization is very dedicated to the band and to the kids. They’re putting in tons of volunteer hours to help the band with whatever they need. I can’t even count how many hours we put in, but the parents and their dedication really make it unique.”

This year, the boosters are stepping up their efforts with their first ever Mighty Hawks Band Boosters Fundraiser Golf Tournament. “The usual fundraisers are great,” Echon says, “but this year, we wanted to have an event that really brings the community together. It’s kind of different from the norm—selling popcorn or candy bars—and while raising funds at the same time. It’s going to be a memorable event, bring the community together, and be a lot of fun for everyone.”

The tournament is set for November 22 at the Tony Butler Golf Course in Harlingen. Registration begins at 7 am with tee-off at 8 am.

Photo courtesy of Mr. Frank Garcia Photography

To keep the energy high throughout the day, the tournament will offer plenty of ways to get involved and have fun. “We have a ton of contests and activities planned,” says Echon. Highlights include a putting contest, a golf ball drop, door prizes, and an online auction.

Prizes range from premium golf gear to cash awards, while auction items feature experiences such as a Kentucky Bourbon Trail trip for two, tickets to any college sports game in the U.S., guided fishing trips to South Padre Island, and more. Generous local sponsors are helping to make these activities and prizes possible.

And for those who don’t golf but still want to enjoy the festivities, the golf ball drop offers a fun way to participate. “It’s a raffle, almost like a lottery,” Echon explains. “As long as you’re a Texas resident and over 18 years of age, you can go to our website and buy golf balls. The Harlingen Fire Department is going to lift them up on the fire truck ladder and drop them over a target. The person that has the ball closest to the [center of the] target will win half of all the money that was raised.”

Funds raised during the tournament will help cover essential needs for the band throughout the year, including meals, travel expenses, props for performances, and clinician costs. “We don’t have a specific target for the funds right now—we’re trying to get a leg up on next year.”

Photo courtesy of Mr. Frank Garcia Photography

Beyond playing in the tournament, community members can support in many ways. “We’re always looking for volunteers,” Echon shares. “Donations are always welcome. If you go to our website, there’s a bunch of info on how to contact us and ways you can get involved.”

Volunteer support plays a crucial role in making the event a success. “Since we’re going to have so many contests and events going on that day, we just need a lot of hands to make sure everything goes smoothly,” he says. “All hands on deck.”

Echon hopes the community understands the lasting impact of their support. “Whether you’re playing in the tournament, cheering from the sidelines, or participating in the golf ball drop, any support is going a long way to helping these kids become better students, better musicians, just better all around. We really appreciate everything you guys are doing.”

If you or someone you know is interested in getting involved with the Mighty Hawk Band Boosters Golf Tournament Fundraiser, you can reach out or register at https://mhb-golf-tournament.perfectgolfevent.com.