Washington State University band declines travel for Sunday Apple Cup game

The Washington State University Cougar Marching Band will not attend this Sunday's Apple Cup game at Husky Stadium in Seattle. Athletic department officials cited logistical challenges resulting from recent stadium seating adjustments that moved visiting school bands to the upper deck. According to WSU vice president and director of athletics Haarlow, the site changes prevented the group from maintaining the desired game-day experience. Former band member Flores noted that transporting 260 performers and instruments from the upper deck to the field would force the ensemble to miss significant portions of the first, second, and third quarters. The decision follows policy changes made after the University of Washington joined the Big Ten Conference in 2024. WSU officials have encouraged supporters to maintain the game-day energy in the band's absence.

• 11:08 PMYahoo Sports — WSU Cougar Marching Band won’t play at Apple Cup