Athletic Band pride of Lakers

Ashley Viszneki, Staff writer

When the football team scores a touchdown, the first thing you’ll hear is the Mercyhurst “Fight Song.”
Have you ever wondered who is playing this song?
The answer to that question is the Laker Pride Athletic Band.
This group was started by the previous athletic director, Joe Kimball, in 2014, and is now under the direction of Bob Reid.
The Mercyhurst Athletic Band performs during athletic events in both the fall and spring semesters.
The band also performs a yearly show with popular stand tunes and, of course, the school’s Alma Mater and “Fight Song.”
Reid said that his favorite part about directing the Laker Pride is the excitement, working with the students, working towards a final production and getting to see the final product.
Reid also said that his favorite event with the band is “anytime the band plays.”
The band plays football games, basketball games, hockey games, campus events (such as the annual bonfire and the open houses), as well as high school band competitions such as the North Hills circuit competition and LMBA Championships.
Reid said that a show is selected by consulting the staff and ultimately deciding on a show that appeals to all ages.
This was true for the band’s 2018 show, “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
The show is performed during halftime at the football games, and the music from the show can also be heard at open houses.
The purpose of Laker Pride, Reid said, is
“to enhance the experience of anyone who visits or attends Mercyhurst University.”
Whether it is game day, or an open house, Laker Pride is there and ready to perform.
Christopher Manley, a junior Psychology major, has played in the Laker Pride Drumline for three years and said his favorite parts about being in the band are the people he has become friends with as well as the band pushing him to become a better developed musician.
If you are interested in joining the Laker Pride Athletic Band, contact Bob Reid at 814-824-2005 or rreid@mercyhurst.edu.
You can also talk to a current band member to learn more about it.