Reported by: Meredith Wood
Videographer: Jim Reed
Web Producer: Meredith Wood Updated: September 5, 2008 11:07pm
EYEWITNESS NEWS ONLINE VIDEO C L I C K T O P L A Y
Every step these WVU students take is about pride.
Being the best, the brightest, and most of all in tune.
Ryan Boyd, Equipment Manager, "Just because you step out on that field does not make you The Pride of West Virginia. You have to earn that every year, every performance."
And according to veteran Sarah Nunley this year will be no let down.
Sarah Nunley, Band Member, "This has been the best band I've been in for 5 years."
That's thanks to the nearly 400 students who march, twirl, play and pour their hearts on the football field.
The band is like a big family and in the case of the Walker brother's from South Charleston it's inspired a little sibling rivalry.
So tell us boys, who's got the musical edge?
Brian Walker, Band Member, "He started playing trumpet before I did but I think I am now."
All competition aside, the band has put in long hours through rain and shine getting ready for the season.
And every week all the hard work pays off.
Brian Walker, "It's exciting seeing all the crowds go crazy. It's a rush."
For Sarah, her final year as a member of The Pride started off with a bang.
The Charleston native got engaged to a fellow musician during band camp.
She starts a new chapter of life after the final down is played this winter.
Sarah says no doubt the tears will flow.
Sarah Nunley, "It's breaking my heart. I actually should have quit last year but I couldn't imagine going to a game with out being in the band."
The Pride of West Virginia plays during every Mountaineer home game at halftime.
MORE NEWS FROM EYEWITNESS NEWS
UNDERWOOD REMEMBERED Pastor Shares Memories on Eve of Memorial Service
November 30, 2008 6:21pm At Christ United Methodist Church, the place former governor Cecil Underwood attended service for more than a decade, he is remembered by its pastor not as a former governor...
MARQUEE CINEMAS ROBBED Suspect Walks Out With Undetermined Amount of Cash
November 30, 2008 5:21pm People enjoying their movie at the Marquee Cinemas Saturday night had no clue what was going on in the lobby.
LAYAWAY RETURNS Layway Programs Increasing in Popularity
November 29, 2008 6:06pm For Tammy Withrow shopping for eight grandchildren can get expensive, but K-Mart's layaway program helps ease the strain on her budget.
Ohio prosecutor requests execution in murder spree December 01, 2008 1:50 PM An Ohio prosecutor has requested an execution date for a man charged with murdering a hitchhiker in 1991 during an alleged multistate killing spree.