I often find myself relieved when I am with the band because I am in the present moment and all of my stress dissipates. The five exams I have the next week feel a bit less daunting, the three group projects all due at the same time seem more bearable and all of the homework in between finds its way to the back of my mind. I do not know how to describe it, but the feeling is addicting. I feel at home with the band.
After being on the executive board my freshman year, I wanted to keep giving back to the band, so I ran for the social media chair position. Check us out on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, because I post on all three platforms!
How Long Does the Season Last and How Many Games Do You Play For?
This past year, the first game we attended was the women’s hockey game at Syracuse University on September 27. Of course, we had practices before then to prepare for the game. Between the men’s and women’s teams, we play over 60 games. The season lasts from late September to mid-March if either team makes it to the playoffs.
There are typically six combined away trips, such as Harvard-Dartmouth, Colgate-Cornell, Quinnipiac-Princeton, Yale-Brown, Rensselaer Polytechnic-Union and, of course, St. Lawrence. This means that our hockey team plays against both of these teams once in the same weekend.
How Often Do You Practice and Play for Games?
We practice every Monday to get ready for the games. After all, we have to sound good while we are having fun! As for playing during games, some members make it to all four games in a weekend, and those with more homework try to make it to at least one. The great thing about Pep Band is that you do not have to go to every game or practice. Pep Band is as much of a commitment as you want it to be.
Is there a Catch?
Dues are as low as possible in order to be inclusive. The first year is $25, and all subsequent years are only $15, which is the minimum amount for clubs here at Clarkson. Why is the first year more? Simply put, we give each new member a polo once they come to enough events.
Really Interested and Want a Better Feel for the Band?
Last year, the Pep Band offered its first pre-Orientation trip, and we will have another one this year, packed with many fun events. Playing music, bowling, eating and hiking are some of the activities that we have in store for those that attend.