National Champion majorette

On 3 September, the University of Washington Huskies beat the Eastern Washington University Eagles, 30-27. The first home game of each new season is known to the bands as the “Varsity/Alumni Game,” because it is the only game for which the Varsity and Alumni bands combine to march on the field and play in the stands.

Matt and Cam, my two great "Guide-on's," wearing our "W" caps backwards to signify another Husky victory!

Only those alumni members who volunteer get to do it, and this year I did so for the first time. One night at practice, I realized

that I had not marched on that field since the 1961 season! Back then, I played 1st trumpet, had all the music memorized, and always did the marching performances without flaw—just like today’s students. Fifty years later, I discovered that I can now either march or play—but not both at the same time. Good thing the director, staff, and young band members are patient and tolerant of imperfection! Indeed, they were much more than that: they were warmly hospitable, helpful, encouraging, and supportive.

In these photos, you will see that the uniform for this game consists of purple “Touch of Class” polo shirts, khaki pants, white shoes and socks, brown belt, and Husky cap with a “W” on the front. Pressbox photos are by Garry Nakayama; field photos by Louis Figueroa.