August 19th, 2025

Happy Tuesday -Marching Tigers and Parents,

We made it!  It's finally game week and with that our weekly FYI for the Marching Tigers and families.  In these FYI's I provide specific information regarding the current week's schedule and expectations for students. Listed below are the topics covered in this rehearsal. 

1. Practice Schedule.
2. Parking for students, volunteers and band parents.  
3 Friday night timeline
4. Summer uniform dress code/full uniform dress code for photos.
5. Behavior Expectations
6. Volunteers for Friday 
7. PTP vs Booster fees. 

Practice Schedule and Changes from last year
Last night we had a great practice, attendance was very good.  During the summer I keep a very open mind, understanding that this is a time for family.  Now that school back in session, we need to minimize the number of absences taken by our membership.  Missing practice for unapproved reasons can impact the student’s 3rd quarter time and potentially their membership in the organization.  Students who are no-call, no-shows for practice will spend 3rd quarter in the band stands.  It is also the responsibility of the student to know the rehearsal schedule and give those dates and times to employers.  "I had to work" is not a responsible excuse, as everyone has had the calendar for months at this point. 

Just like in years past, students have important benchmarks to meet weekly regarding attendance and music checks.  Students who have not met the requirements for music checks will spend 3rd quarter in the band stands on Friday nights. 

Any student who loses 3rd quarter privileges WILL be given time to get food or use the restroom after 3rd quarter without the company of their friends.    

Parking for home games at Tiger Stadium
All students will park in the lot back by the tennis courts.  Students should not be parking back in the "cove" by the loading dock or band room doors. There is no need for parking passes, as their report time is well before the influx of spectators begins. 

Parent Volunteers, either for concessions or equipment help will be allowed to park in the lot behind the tennis courts as well.  With that said, anyone arriving later than 5pm will most likely be rerouted to the Hill Rd parking lot by parking attendants.  

General spectator parking will be in the Hill Rd parking lot (aka the front of the school).  Parents will then use the sidewalk to the main gates for NEW Tiger Stadium.  Handicap and QB Club parking will be in the Bus Lot.  This lot requires parking passes or handicap credentials. 


Friday Night Timeline
3:10 - Dress rehearsal on turf field
4:10 - Dismiss.  Leave sound EQ and front ensemble on the field by the band stands.
5:00 - Band room opens 
5:45 - Report to flag poles in uniform 
6:00 - Warm-up and pep session. 
6:35 - Parade from Flag poles to (NEW) Tiger Stadium
6:50 - Pregame
7:00 - Kick-off


Full Uniform Dress Code
Given the game time temperatures on Friday we will be wearing our summer uniforms.  Students will wear their marching band shoes and short white socks.  As always hair needs to be off the shoulders and no large or colorful jewelry.  I will ask you to remove any unacceptable jewelry to maintain a uniform look.  Gentlemen,  It seems like cargo shorts are back in style, however the Marching Tigers do not wear cargo khaki shorts.  Chino style khaki shorts are what we ask you to wear.  Please plan accordingly. Uniform moms will have extra shirts and some shorts for sale in the case of emergency. 

Behavior/expectations at games
Students represent our organization and the school when wearing the uniform.  At no point will any behavior outlined as inappropriate in the student code of be acceptable.  Public displays of affection are not permitted as well.  As a person who met his spouse in band I can attest that it is possible to maintain a healthy relationship without being in constant physical contact with your special someone...   😅 (Mr and Mrs Hakes also met in band and agree, it will be ok!!!) 

Students are expected to return to the band stands before the start of 4th quarter.  Yes, students are at the mercy of the game clock, but our responsibility is to perform at the games.  We will start each 4th quarter with a full band fight song, then dismiss the 4th quarter band members to the student section. 

Uniform pieces are to be worn at all times unless directed to remove by a director.  (for example: Hats and jackets) 

Concession preorder form
Want to skip the line and avoid being late for 4th quarter?  Preorder your concessions snacks by clicking this link!  

Concessions order

​Volunteers for Friday 

After some discussion with the athletic department our field helpers will simply check in at the pass gate before entering Tiger Stadium.  No badges this year!  For home games our traditional "truck loaders" will simply help move any last pieces of equipment into Tiger Stadium and help pre set podiums for pregame and halftime.  This, too is a much better than loading as if every game is an away game! I'm kind of pumped for it!  The band nurse and booster president should stay close to the band all night.  Field helpers should report to the field when they see the band go to warm-up for halftime.  A huge thank you to our new Volunteer Coordinator Chris Mirakian for  for organizing our volunteers! 

Nurse
Kelly Long

Field Help
Chris Mirakian
Barb Gilbert
Jennifer Dryer
Heather Edwards
Joy Shaw
Melissa Wyatt
Kristie Blanton
Dan Kruse
James Pelfrey

Pay to Participate vs. Booster Fees
I have yet to receive any updates from the district regarding balance due for Pay to Participate fees.  This is simply a friendly reminder to get it on your "family radar".