Is Marching Band a Sport? By: Eva Long

At many high schools, there's an ongoing debate: Is marching band really a sport? While some folks see it as more of an art form or just another school activity, the students in marching band argue that the physical challenges and competitive spirit definitely put it on par with traditional sports. 

Marching band members dedicate months to perfecting intricate routines that blend music and movement. They endure long rehearsals, often referred to as “nine-to-nines” because they stretch from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., pushing the limits of everyone involved. “We travel to different parts of the country to compete against other amazing bands,” shared one band member. “We also practice a ton… just like any regular sports team would.” The level of physical and mental dedication rivals that of many athletic squads. 

Some students think the main reason marching band doesn’t get the sports label is because there’s no ball or physical contact involved. Band member Joshua grant stated, “People say it’s not a sport just because there’s no ball in it,”. But holding instruments for hours while maintaining perfect posture takes a lot of strength. “You have to keep your form right, or it’s going to look messy,” Joshua Grant explained.

Others who are not in the band recognize the hard work that goes into it. Student Armando Ocasio Negron remarked, “They overlook how much effort they put in… sometimes they can’t even attend sports games because they’re busy playing their instruments.” Still, he does not see marching band as part of the athletic community, pointing out, “Most sports involve contact or physicality… and in marching band, you’re just playing your instrument.” 

Student athlete Sean Grandison emphasized the band’s vital role at sports events: “They really get the crowd pumped up and make everything more exciting.” While he thinks band members don’t put their bodies through the same physical challenges as athletes, he respects their “consistency". Whether or not it gets the official title of a sport, it is clear that marching band demands a unique blend of skill, dedication, and teamwork.