Campus Forum | August 25

Give the band its seats

As a former member of the N.C. State Marching Band, I hold much respect and appreciation towards this great organization. Sadly, others show such a lack of respect towards the marching band that they are unwilling to give the band adequate seating at football games.

This year's marching band, with a membership of approximately 280, is about 40 members larger than last year's band and is the largest in NCSU's history. Therefore, it only makes sense that more space will need to be reserved for the band at Carter-Finley Stadium. Even last year, space in the band's section was scarce-our 240-piece band had little space to carry out various dance routines to accompany drum cadences. It's obvious that the band's section must be expanded.

I realize that by giving the band more space, it will reduce the number of general seats available. However, the band is made up entirely of students who would probably still be at the games even if they were not in band. The marching band also does the best job at creating a positive and exciting atmosphere during games. Lastly, most students appreciate the marching band. If you truly support a cause, you are willing to make sacrifices towards that cause.

Ultimately, the issue of overcrowding will continue until Carter-Finley Stadium is expanded, a process that would take many years. Until then, please give the marching band as much room as it needs, so it can fully exhibit the product of their hard work.

Adam Philyaw junior, computer engineering