1. How many members do you accept?
There is no limit! But, you will be asked to demonstrate basic movement skills during the audition.

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2. What piece of equipment will I audition on?
Flag only. We do have rifle and saber; however those auditions will occur during Field Guard Pre-Camp.

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3. Do you provide our equipment for auditions?
Yes. We supply each student with a 6ft pole and flag. We recommend you bring water and a healthy snack for endurance.

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4. Do you need to have dance experience?
You will be asked to demonstrate basic movement skills during the audition.

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5. How difficult is it to join?
Previous flag experience is imperative for membership in the Field Guard. This includes the following advanced skills: drop spins, double fast, carves, tosses with various preps, and basic movement under the equipment. You will learn an “On the Spot” routine during auditions, which will include all the fundamentals on flag.

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6. What should I wear to the audition?
Generally, form fitting clothes tend to be less obtrusive when spinning equipment.

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7. If you are unable to attend the audition, will a video tape suffice?
Clearly, attending the audition is preferred but in the event no other option is available you may submit a video including various tosses, movement skills with equipment and without, one minute of work you have prepared to taped music. Please feel comfortable including pieces from your past performances, along with a short interview about yourself. Send your video to the following address:

ATTN: Mary Dooley
School of Music
University of South Florida
4202 East Fowler Avenue FAH110
Tampa, Fl. 33620-7350

Please contact Mary Dooley before sending tapes.

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8. Is there a camp?
Yes. Field Guard Pre-Camp is right before full Pre-Season Camp in August.
Both camps are mandatory. 

Please visit the Pre-Season Camp page for more details, CLICK HERE!

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9. What is your practice schedule?
The Field Guard practices three days a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Occasionally, we will have an extra practice or weekend camp.
Please click here to find current practice times.

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10. How do I sign up for the class?

A few things:

1. Your Intention: Let us know your intention to join by CLICKING HERE!  All incoming members must "reserve" a spot!
2. Class Information: All marching band members must register for the marching band class. Listed in the course book as MUN 1110, the Marching Band meets for rehearsal as a class on Monday, Wednesday, and (on performance weeks) Friday. There will also be a limited rehearsal prior to departure on game days (Saturday). Permits are not required for registration. You may register for 1, 2, or 3 credit hours with this class.  
3. How to sign up for the class:
   1. Log onto OASIS (Online Access Student Information System)
   2. Click on Advising and Registration
   3. Register/Add/Drop my classes
   4. Under the CRNs area insert the reference number.
4. Cross-Enrolled Students (Non-Degree Seeking Students)

For non USF students who are interested in being a part of a college marching band!

It is possible to dual enroll at USF from the other local institutions.
There are two ways to apply to be a Cross-Enrolled student:

1. Fill out the form by clicking here >>> Non-Degree Seeking Student Application (.pdf file)
   Instructions are included in the document. Mail to the address on the form, not the H.O.T. office.
2. Go to the USF registrar (SVC building, Tampa Campus) and pick up a form for "non-degree seeking students."

NOTE: You can not turn in the form until a date in August. Check with the Office of the Registrar for details.

Cross-Enrollment Information: You may enroll in up to 8 hours per term as a cross enrolled student. After you have been accepted to take classes as a Non-Degree seeking student, follow the steps for "how to sign up for the class" listed under number 3 above

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11. How many performances does the band and guard participate in?
We have approximately ten performances in the fall. This would include seven homes football games and three exhibitions.

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12. Do you have a Winterguard program?
YES!! Please visit the Winterguard page for additional information. Announcements will be posted on the main page of this site.

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13. How much does it cost to be in the Fall Field Guard?
You are responsible for paying for the class, plus any personal items you wear: shoes, t-shirt, gloves, warm-up, hair products, make-up. These items usually will not exceed $150.00 dollars. The uniform is supplied by the University.

Please check out the Pre-Season Camps page by clicking here!

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14. Does the University supply my Equipment?
The university will supply you with all of your equipment, flags, rifles, sabers, and uniforms.

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15. Where does the band practice?
Fowler field (across from the Sun dome) is the H.O.T. practice field.

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16. Does everyone receive a scholarship for band?
Yes. You will receive a scholarship at the completion of the term as long as you receive an A in the class.

TALENT GRANTS for Fall 2006:

The breakdown for Marching Band:

• Marching Band - First Year: $200.00  

• Marching Band - Veteran: $500.00  

• Marching Band - Officer: $600.00    

*Membership in the fall field guard will reduce your financial dues during Winter Guard, if you join.*

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17. Is the Field Guard open to everyone?
YES. USF is an EO/EA/AA institution. Every section is open to everyone!

Events, activities, programs and facilities of the University of South Florida are available to all without regard to race, color, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, age, Vietnam or disabled veteran status as
provided by law and in accordance with the University’s respect for personal dignity.

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Please read the Marching Band Information page for more details.