Morgantown, West Virginia — In a thunderous moment of pride and joy, ESPN’s annual collegiate marching band power rankings have officially ranked the West Virginia University (WVU) Marching Band, fondly known as “The Pride of West Virginia,” first in the NCAA.
Mountaineer fans and alumni are not surprised by this accolade, since the WVU Marching Band has long been regarded as one of collegiate athletics’ most enthusiastic and recognizable icons. The Pride of West Virginia, known for their booming brass, precision drill motions, spine-tingling pregame rituals, and electrifying halftime performances, continues to demonstrate that they are much more than just a band; they are the beating heart of the Mountaineer gameday experience.
The ESPN panel, which comprised musicians, sportscasters, and college football historians, graded bands on musicality, field execution, tradition, audience participation, and visual innovation. The WVU band stood out in all categories.
One judge commented, “The WVU Marching Band doesn’t just perform; they command the stadium. Their versions of ‘Simple Gifts’ and ‘Country Roads’ bring audiences to tears, while their military precise entrances and dynamic sound raise the roof of Milan Puskar Stadium.”
Under Dr. Cheldon Williams’ leadership, the band has continued to innovate while maintaining the essential traditions that have distinguished it for decades. Whether it’s the soaring brass section during the national anthem, the spine-tingling pregame drill that forms the legendary “WV,” or the exquisite choreography during halftime shows, every note and step is executed with pride and purpose.
Beyond the music, what distinguishes the WVU band is its strong commitment to the Mountaineer community. Fans stay in their seats during halftime solely to see the band perform. Players frequently discuss how the band stimulates their energy and emotions prior to start. And no moment is more poignant than when the band leads the entire stadium in singing “Take Me Home, Country Roads” – a West Virginia hymn that echoes through the hills and hearts of the state.
The ESPN accolade is more than just a ranking; it represents years of discipline, effort, and unrivaled school spirit. Band members practice for extended hours in the heat, rain, and cold. They give up weekends and spare time not for glory, but because they love their school, their team, and the art of performance.
As college football season heats up, one thing is certain: no band can rock the stadium like the Pride of West Virginia. Congratulations to the WVU Marching Band on their well-deserved No. 1 ranking; your rhythm, passion, and pride lift Mountaineer Nation a little higher. 💙💛🎺
Let’s go, Mountaineers—and let the band perform!