CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The University Interscholastic League also known as the UIL wants to make sure marching band students are healthy enough to participate. What that means is band members will be required to have a physical just like athletes.
Today is the first day of practice for all CCISD high school students in marching band. And according to a letter sent to parents, band students have until August 1st to turn in their newly required physicals.
“Just being a former coach and students who have a lot of demand in marching band I was surprised that this wasn't something already put into place for every band student,” said Denise Martinez, a parent of a band student and a teacher at Miller High School.
The change in UIL requirements, requires students to provide both a pre-participation physical exam and a marching band medical history form to their schools.
All students are expected to be medically cleared for the role they will perform with the marching band.
“As a parent I definitely support the health screening and physical for every band student,” said Martinez.
She says the new requirement gives her peace of mind. Her daughter is athletic and participates in sports all year round, but for students who only participate in band she says it'll allows band directors to be more aware of students with underlying physical conditions.
“Long hours and the heat they might feel the pressure,” said Martinez. “And they need to take care of themselves and listen to their bodies.”
The UIL changes also extend to middle schools. 7th and 8th grade band students are now required to get a physical done at the beginning of the year, and then again when they enter 9th grade.
“I've heard some buzz, like now this is something extra that I have to do for my student but there shouldn't be a cost factor,” said Martinez. “If you have insurance it should be free, if not the community has been very helpful.”
CCISD is partnering with the Corpus Christi Medical Center to offer free physicals to athletes, band, drill, cheer and NJROTC members. Moody High School is hosting the event in its gym Saturday, July 27th from 9 AM to Noon. Moody is located at 1818 Trojan Dr. People are asked to register ahead of time by clicking on this link:
