My first-ish March Madness

You probably read that headline and thought, “What the heck is she talking about?!” Well, this is my first March Madness experience, but only sort of. I have traveled for March Madness before and have photographed before, but not necessarily for a basketball team. 

When I was the photographer for the Flyer Pep Band, I had the opportunity to travel to Salt Lake City for the first round of the NCAA Tournament when our Dayton Flyers were sent to play. I got to observe and learn about all of the behind-the-scenes action for March Madness and the literal “madness” that came with it while taking pictures of the University’s rowdiest band. 

Now I’ve been sent to the First Four of March Madness by my on-campus employer, UD Magazine and wow; I have found so many connections to that first experience. It is my second day and already I have had so many opportunities that have blown my mind and opened new doors for my career. 

The background noise of the First Four

As all the action and attention is toward the court and the incredible teams putting their all into the game, there are other teams shining in the background — the pep bands.

For those who don’t know, wherever most college basketball teams travel for conference tournaments or March Madness, the school’s pep band follows along to support and cheer on the team like they are playing at their home court. They are allowed to bring up to 30 students to play loud and proud to any corner of the country. So, not only do student-athletes get to make these unforgettable memories, but so do the student-musicians.

Various media bringing the First Four to you

Many members of the media are present for the First Four, giving viewers a variety of ways to consume the teams and games — radio, TV, social media, newspapers, podcasts, etc. All eyes in sports media are on UD Arena. Seeing the game through these different mediums reminds me of how big a deal this time of year truly is and how honored these teams must feel to be here.

A sign of the times at UD Arena 

Right now, the beloved University of Dayton Arena is completely transformed to an even playing ground for the eight teams coming from across the country to fight for a spot in the NCAA Tournament. Everywhere you look, you see indications of the biggest month in basketball, with of course more than a few signs of our beloved Flyers.