Where Was the Band?

I've been a loyal supporter of Daniel Hand football since 1984. The Daniel Hand Marching Band has always been a huge part of Hand football and always a very large sense of pride as we went on the road. They were truly the 12th men and women of Hand football. The wonderful video Tiger Pride: The Story of Hand Football by Mike Seib recognizes the tremendous contribution the band made to the football program.

The Daniel Hand football team played one of the biggest playoff games in recent years against undefeated Masuk High School last Saturday night. Hand was the underdog, according to the experts. There were more than 4,000 people in attendance. These types of games were always when the Daniel Hand Band stood out. The band, then under the dedicated direction of Richard Fasano, now deceased, was the best and most supportive in the state. It always made Madison residents proud and helped the team play harder.

I was shocked and disappointed when I realized the Daniel Hand Marching Band wasn't there last Saturday night. I couldn't believe it. All of the people I talked to couldn't believe it as well. We wondered why-if this was some kind of school budget issue. I was told that wasn't the reason.

I think whoever made the decision for the band not to participate needs to think a little more about Madison tradition. This has been one of the great Hand football trademarks and a sense of pride to all residents who cheer for Hand.

My final comment is a question. Why do we have a marching band at Daniel Hand High School if it isn't going to march in the semi-finals of the Class L State Championship game? It was a nice night. The weather couldn't be an excuse!

Bill Porter
Madison