Despite the dreary weather, Gator Marching Band members and their families came out for Gator Band Parents’ Weekend during the UF vs East Carolina University game on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2015.
This was the second year the event has been held, and it had a high turnout. Families watched their Gators at band practice that morning, followed by a tailgate exclusively for Gator Band members and their families.
Megan Backus, a freshman who plays the clarinet in the Gator Marching Band, attended the event with her family. “I really liked Gator Band Parents’ Weekend,” she says. “It was nice to see all of the families of marching band members come together to support the band and the football team! I especially enjoyed the barbecue we had together.”
At the tailgate, Gator Band members and their families were provided with seating to watch the SEC Network’s pre-game coverage, as well as a barbecue lunch catered by David’s BBQ. The University of Florida Alumni Association even brought “Big Boom,” a giant UF drum, to the event for band members and families to take turns posing with.
"It was great to see our daughter and the band,” said Chris Backus. “Unfortunately, the band did not get to march during halftime because of the weather, but they sounded great in the stands! We really enjoyed watching the practice in the morning, and seeing all of the work that goes into their show."
Though stormy weather threatened to put a damper on the festivities, Gator Band members and their families came out to show their spirit and show that Gators really do stick together in all kinds of weather.
To view photos from the event, click here.
