The University of Georgia Redcoat Marching Band dedicated its new practice field in the intramural fields with a performance and ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 5.
“I don’t have to tell anyone here that the Redcoats are one of the most highly visible representatives of the University of Georgia,” UGA President Michael F. Adams said at the event. “They are one of the university’s greatest traditions we enjoy.”
“This is the culmination of a tradition here today. This is what happens when you have a tradition as vital and as inspired as the Redcoat Band that exists over generations,” said Dale Monson, director of the Hugh Hodgson School of Music. “They are a proud and a strong inspiration for all of us at this university. They combine the past, the present and the future into something that endures across generations.”
Recreation Sports Field No. 9, located near the back of the complex, was designated as the new Redcoat Band Practice Field last year. Since then, construction crews have overhauled the field by installing a retaining wall, drainage system and perimeter lighting for night practice. Its completion marks a unique and important moment in the band’s 104-year history, according to Michael Robinson, director of athletic bands at UGA.
“This is the first time that the Redcoats have had a practice facility of their very own,” he said.
“Typically we’ve used the same field for practice as the football team does, which can limit the amount of rehearsal time we both have. When you only rehearse two or three times per week, it’s important to be able to count on getting all of that time.”
Band member Katie Rogers agreed.
“Having a practice field of our own has been a completely different experience this year,” she said. “It has brought rehearsal consistency to the Redcoat Band, resulting in more efficient rehearsals and higher quality performances. Never before have I received so many remarks on how good the band looks and sounds than this year.”
The band’s alumni program is currently raising money for Phase II of the field’s construction, which will include stadium seating, storage space and an instructional tower.
When not in use by the Redcoat Band, the field will be made available to the department of recreational sports for intramural activities.