Va. — Virginia Tech’s Marching Virginians are reviewing heat safety practices following the death of a University of Iowa marching band member
Derek Phillips, 20, died after collapsing from the heat before halftime of a University of Iowa football game two weeks ago. He played mellophone in the Iowa band.
Virginia Tech Athletic Band Director Polly Middleton directs more than 300 musicians and has worked with several thousand during her years at Tech. She did not know Phillips but said his death has affected her.
“Marching bands are so close-knit. It’s such a tight community, because we spend so much time together, and we work so hard together. And then, losing someone is just devastating,” Middleton said.
Now, she is thinking about heat safety. Middleton stressed the heat is even more intense when you factor in the uniforms
“They’re really heavy uniforms. They’re not breathable. It’s not a breathable fabric. It’s not something that allows any kind of breeze,” Middleton said.
Middleton said the physical demands extend beyond marching during halftime performances.
“Most people don’t realize that while you see students marching halftime, playing in the stands is almost just as difficult,” Middleton said.
Drum Major Gwendolyn Moore described conditions in the stands.
“You’re kind of right in the sun the whole time, pretty much,” Moore said.
Band leaders are discussing heat and safety measures
“We’re not just assuming, if they just go sit in the shade, they’ll be fine. But making sure there’s somebody with them,” Middleton said.
That includes not wearing uniform jackets on hot days, keeping water available, and building more breaks into practice sessions.
“All of the things that we think about having in place for athletes really apply to the marching band, too,” Middleton said.
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