At most UNC Asheville home games, the sound of Bulldog pride is impossible to miss. From the opening warmups to the final buzzer, the UNC Asheville pep band plays a constant role in shaping the energy inside the Justice Center, Kimmel Arena and other campus athletic venues. More than just background music, the band serves as a driving force behind the Bulldogs’ home game atmosphere.
Every sport appreciates their unconditional excitement and support. “They bring a ton of energy and enthusiasm,”Assistant Coach Jason Morris said. “They make it an interactive game environment for the fans and for the athletes competing in front of their home crowd.”
Throughout the season, band members show up ready to perform, cheer and rally the crowd. Whether the Bulldogs are on a scoring run or pushing through a tough defensive stand, the band responds with fight songs, drum cadences and familiar crowd-pumping tunes which keep fans engaged and loud.
Junior sousaphone player Bryce Hall is especially enthusiastic at these events. “I like yelling at the opponents and of course being supportive of our Bulldogs.” Bryce has been playing the sousaphone for 11 years.
During timeouts and breaks in play, their performances keep momentum alive and prevent the energy in the arena from fading. The UNC Asheville fight song, in particular, has become a staple of home victories, often played as the crowd rises to its feet.
“Our main job, our hard work, is to keep up the momentum and the energy of every game,” junior trumpet player Aiden Doss said. “It’s hard work to keep up the hype and of course provide music for everyone’s entertainment. I also see it as kind of an outlet that people don’t normally get to just, be loud and respectfully heckle. Just to get out of that comfort zone and be loud and being told that you are providing value because you’re giving constant support is a really fulfilling feeling.”
The band’s role extends beyond music. Members actively lead cheers from the stands, encouraging students and families to get involved in supporting the Bulldogs. Their enthusiasm often spreads across the arena, turning ordinary moments into memorable ones. When the student section gets louder, the entire venue follows.
Like many college bands across the country, the UNC Asheville pep band also participates in playful rivalry traditions. Lighthearted ‘crap talk’ aimed at visiting teams kept within the spirit of good sportsmanship adds humor and intensity to the competition. These moments help build camaraderie among Bulldog fans while reinforcing the home court advantage.
Consistency is what makes the band such an important part of UNC Asheville athletics. Game after game, they show up prepared and enthusiastic, reinforcing traditions that connect students, athletes and alumni. Their presence reminds everyone in attendance how Bulldog sports are about more than competition, they are about community.
As the Bulldogs continue their season at home, one thing remains certain: the band will be there, instruments ready, cheering loudly and proudly supporting UNC Asheville every step of the way.
