Karsceal Tuner
I Got Next!
Special to West Orlando News Online
As much as I want to talk an abundance of trash following the Wildcat’s 26-16 win over arch-nemesis Florida A&M in the Florida Classic. As Much as I want to spread a sprinkle of salt on how the Marching Wildcats stole the Battle of the Bands and the accompanying half-time show. As much as I want to relish the redemption B-CU felt by ending the three-game losing streak at the hands of the Rattlers.
I am painfully reminded that in the midst of all this hoopla, pomp, and circumstance, Robert Champion performed for the last time.
In the midst of all the celebrating, all the saturation and publicity surrounding the contest, the big push for a possible playoff berth for the game-winner and the big pay-off for vendors who lined the streets around the Orlando Citrus Bowl. This whole thing is just a game. There are things more important.
“Rest Easy” Robert Champion
Champion, 26 was found unresponsive in a parking lot outside the Rosen Plaza Hotel where the “Marching 100” was staying. Champion started to throw up and complain about his breathing in a bus parked outside the Hotel on International Drive just hours after the “100” performed at the 32th Florida Classic.
His friends performed CPR and called the paramedics but by the time Champion reached Dr. Phillips Hospital he was reported dead. The Orange Country Sherriff’s Department is investing the death but have issued a statement saying that they did not suspect foul play.
I simply could not lift the pen to focus on the aspects of the game. I simply didn’t seem proper to me. Instead, I shall pay homage to a young brother who did what he wanted to do. He was a drum major for one of the most-storied HBCU bands in this nation.
As much as people clown about the rivalry between B-CU and FAMU, many fans don’t understand the mechanics of being a drum major. Not at all an easy task at all. Folks trust me; those guys go through a personal hell. I’ll say it right now, there is speculation of hazing.
Ya’ll think hazing is only associated with fraternities and sororities? Think again! I know a lot of former and current band members who will laugh in your face if you are a non-believer. Still, that isn’t my point. My point is a young man has ascended and is beyond this place of pain. There will be no more band camps for Champion, who just finished his first full season as a FAMU drum major. He will never compete in another “Battle of the Bands.” He will never again perform at the Florida Classic.
Drum majoring ain’t easy
This past weekend, it was reported that Champion dropped his mace on the field. People in the crowd ohh and ahh but don’t understand how much practice goes into manipulating the mace. There is much more to leading a band than meets the eyes. It is also teaching and leading, conducting, and making decisions. A good drum major can lead a group to perform its best.
It was ironic how the announcer clowned about the number drum majors FAMU had on the field. They regularly have 10 drum majors at any given performance and are notorious for setting a certain standard among their peers.
Robert Champion gave his life performing the duties of a leader. He spent his last hours in pursuit of helping others perform at their very best. I cry not for the young brother, I weep for his family who are left behind to carry his torch. To his family I say, honor Robert through your honorable deeds from this day forward. To Robert, who looks down from the band room on high, I say rest easy young brother, rest easy, you are the Higher Power’s Champion now.
You couldn’t have said it better. Great job!!!