Uploaded April 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
With dozens of universities football programs hosting their Spring Game activities this upcoming weekend, I thought it would be fun to speak with two of my longtime friends, Geoff Carr and Trent Hoverman, to talk about what it really takes to be part of an elite collegiate marching band. Both earned their spots in the The Ohio State University Marching Band (my alma mater!), which here in Ohio we proudly call The Best Damn Band in the Land. But what they describe applies to many of the great bands across the country.
From grueling auditions and summer preparation sessions to marching at 180 beats per minute while playing, it is a commitment that rivals varsity athletics. We talked about the adrenaline of stepping onto a field in front of 100,000 fans, the constant challenges that keep members sharp, and the lifelong friendships that grow out of shared discipline and tradition.
Beyond the spectacle, the real story is about teamwork, excellence, and striving to be part of something bigger than yourself. I hope you enjoy!
Join my free substack newsletter for more! johnkasich.substack.com
With dozens of universities football programs hosting their Spring Game activities this upcoming weekend, I thought it would be fun to speak with two of my longtime friends, Geoff Carr and Trent Hoverman, to talk about what it really takes to be part of an elite collegiate marching band. Both earned their spots in the The Ohio State University Marching Band (my alma mater!), which here in Ohio we proudly call The Best Damn Band in the Land. But what they describe applies to many of the great bands across the country.
From grueling auditions and summer preparation sessions to marching at 180 beats per minute while playing, it is a commitment that rivals varsity athletics. We talked about the adrenaline of stepping onto a field in front of 100,000 fans, the constant challenges that keep members sharp, and the lifelong friendships that grow out of shared discipline and tradition.
Beyond the spectacle, the real story is about teamwork, excellence, and striving to be part of something bigger than yourself. I hope you enjoy!
Join my free substack newsletter for more! johnkasich.substack.com
