The University of Wisconsin Marching Band performed at Saturday's Badger match against Penn State after university officials suspended them Oct. 3 for allegations of hazing.
The suspension was lifted last Friday, allowing the band to play at home games but barring them from traveling until further notice as the investigation into hazing allegations remains open.
During its suspension the band missed the Oct. 4 home game against Ohio State - the first time in at least 40 years.
I thought it was nice [the athletic department] tried to fill in for the band last week, but it didn't compare to having actual live music to listen to,"" UW-Madison freshman Hannah Kaster said.
Although the Badgers faced a frustrating game, students said the band provided an exciting atmosphere with its return.
UW-Madison sophomore Laura Rortvedt said the band's presence added to her overall game experience.
""I don't have season football tickets but I wanted to come because I knew it was going to be a good game,"" Rortvedt said. ""I knew it would be like every other game I have been to with the band playing '¦ Even [if] we are getting beat, they are keeping our spirits up and keeping us cheering for our team.""
Elizabeth Zipperle, a senior at the University of Virginia, said her first Badger game was ""amazing"" because of the school spirit the band provided.
""I haven't been to that many college football games but Wisconsin seems to have way more school spirit,"" Zipperle said. ""I loved how the band walked and played through the aisle to get the students excited '¦ Their halftime show was great too because they had so much technique.""
Kaster said the most important part of having the band at the Badger games is to provide spirit and entertainment for the entire stadium.
""I think it is great the band is back because of the school spirit they provide,"" she said. ""The songs they play get us to sing along together '¦ They keep one of the great traditions of Wisconsin alive.""
