The University of South Florida’s Herd of Thunder marching band will bring green and gold to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers halftime show this Sunday, Oct. 12.
The performance will feature 348 student musicians and field formations at Raymond James Stadium as they perform an energetic Motown-inspired musical arrangement that celebrates rhythm, unity and school pride.
For many band members, this is the second year in a row to play during a Bucs game. It’s one of the university’s many ties to the NFL team, which hosts a number of fellowship and mentoring opportunities for USF students.
Whether at USF football games, university ceremonies or community and national events, the Herd of Thunder is known for delivering high-energy entertainment that connect people through music.
Band captain and social media coordinator Emily Towner still remembers what first drew her to the ensemble.
“I was inspired to join after attending HOT Day as a high school student,” she said. “Performing on the field with so many talented musicians created a true passion for performance within me.”
Since then, that passion has shaped both her college experience and career goals.
“Being in the marching band completely altered my college experience, giving me 300 immediate friends as a freshman,” Towner said. “It’s also how I discovered my passion for media and my future career path.”
Beyond the music, the Herd of Thunder has become a source of connection, leadership and pride for its members. The group’s influence extends far beyond the field, building confidence and friendships that last long after graduation.
For Emily Morris, a senior marketing major and fellow band captain, game day brings an unmistakable surge of energy that unites everyone in the stands.
“When we step out onto the field, you feel the immediate impact of the green and gold everywhere,” she said.
That excitement fuels every performance.
“We’re the heartbeat for the university and the fans,” Morris added. “During pregame, when the whole crowd is on its feet and cheering to our music, that connection is electric, it makes all the hard work worth it.”
The Herd of Thunder serves as one of USF’s most visible and enthusiastic ambassadors. Members balance their rigorous rehearsal schedule with academic commitments, showcasing dedication and discipline in every performance.
For David Washington, a second-year member who plays tuba and serves as a new member advisor, the band quickly became his home on campus.
“Marching band has shaped my college experience by providing key relationships that I’ll carry with me after I graduate,” he said.
That sense of connection extends across every section of the band, strengthened by shared customs and time-honored rituals.
“It’s important that we keep these traditions alive,” Washington said. “They help entertain fans and keep our history moving forward.”
With each performance, the Herd of Thunder delivers more than music, they bring the heartbeat of USF to every event. And when they step onto the field at Raymond James Stadium, the sound of Bull pride will once again take center stage.