“The prospect of turf at both Panther and Tiger Stadiums is one eagerly awaited by both North and Central High School’s Band Programs.  First and foremost, student safety is considered when taking the field on a football Friday night or a competition Saturday for our students.  A level, stable, and consistent surface provides the opportunity for our students to be at their best and showcase the level of performance they work tirelessly to perfect.  In the modern age of the marching arts, what we are asking of our students from a performance level is ever increasing in difficulty, demand, and breadth.  Directors across the country seek turf as a performance surface for their ensembles to preserve and enhance their students’ abilities to perform at their best, in addition to the long-term sustainability of their equipment.  Turf in Pickerington would make the Pickerington Band Festival once again a destination performance opportunity, and would allow our students to take the next steps in the great band traditions that we have been blessed with in our town.

We are extraordinarily grateful for the support of our arts and athletic programs by our school district and the Pickerington community, and will continue to return this support through performance and service.  The PHSN Bands are thankful for the members this committee and community working tirelessly on the effort to bring turf to Pickerington.  We look forward to one day in the not-so-distant future when the Marching Panthers and Marching Tigers can take the field on their brand new turf surfaces!”

Gregory Benson - Director of Bands, Pickerington High School North