migblog

to the newmen class of 2004:

congratulations on finishing your first game, a glorious defeat of the new mexico state university aggies, 41-14.

congratulations on completing the silent walk, and in accepting the charges we've all asked of you. (we know you'll do a great job.)

there's a sense of duty attached to being a cal bandsman, and you entering lot have just experienced firsthand what it means to serve the university, in remembering who you are and what you represent, in meeting and surpassing the standards set by your predecessors, in imparting the california spirit to others as you carry it with you always, and by performing to the best of your ability.

when i congratulated some of you during that cool night in memorial stadium, i could tell that you were moved, that something clicked and made sense and made your eyes light up and mist a little bit.

it's that exact feeling you get when you've just completed a good pregame, after rejoicing when you hear the click, after your heart beating so fast in anticipation after "sticks up," after you rush out of north tunnel to be almost blinded by the afternoon sun.

it's the exact same feeling you get when you take off your vest after your first game.

it's the exact same feeling you get when someone tells you, "good job, newman."

it's the exact same feeling you get when someone calls up a packet song and you know all the horn flashes.

you are cal bandsman. never be ashamed of that.

"what you have done today has linked you to generations past, and will link you in many years to come."

you are our future, newman class of 2004, you are our spirit, our hope, and our dreams.

as your recruiter, i am very proud to welcome you to the university of california band, its tradition, its excellence, and its legacy.

we welcome you with open arms.

posted by Open Source Food @ 1:55 PM