One trombone, three family members, countless memories

November 18, 2016

Lincoln, Neb. — When Dylan Dam steps onto the field on Saturday for his final home performance with the Cornhusker Marching Band, he’ll be carrying much more than a trombone. That trombone was with him when he stepped onto the field for the very first time three years ago, and there for the big win against Michigan St. in 2015. The senior Agricultural Leadership Education major from Hooper has been inseparable from that trombone during his time with “The Pride of All Nebraska,” but that doesn’t even begin to describe its significance in his life.

Dylan is the third member of his family to play that same trombone as a member of the Cornhusker Marching Band.

Dylan's father, Dwight got the trombone when he was in grade school in the mid-1970s. He was a member of the Cornhusker Marching Band from 1981-83 before passing it to Dylan's uncle Eric , who was a member of the Cornhusker Marching Band from 1993-95. The trombone has been through a countless number of practices and big games. It's been to eight bowl games, including five national championship games. 

“We rehearse at 7 a.m. every day so it’s tough to get out of bed sometimes, but gamedays make it all worth it,” Dylan said. “I’m very thankful that I’ve had the opportunity to be a member of the Cornhusker Marching Band and I don’t take it for granted."

Following graduation in the Spring, Dam plans to pursue law school. As for the trombone? It may not be on the sidelines for long. 

“There’s definitely a possibility it will be used again,” Dam said.