51ĀŅĀ×

From prestigious events like the Macyā€™s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade to countless performances on football fields across the nation and world, the 51ĀŅĀ× Marching 110 has been renowned for its unforgettable performances, unique marching style and unparalleled precision for more than a century.

And soon, for the first time in its , the ā€œMost Exciting Band in the Landā€ will have a new, state-of-the-art practice facility to call home thanks to support from President Lori Stewart Gonzalez and a transformational $1 million gift from Marching 110 alumni Shawn Hurley and Tracey (Hanna) Hurley. The project will be presented to the 51ĀŅĀ× Board of Trustees for their review and consideration at an upcoming meeting.

ā€œThe Marching 110 is one of 51ĀŅĀ×ā€™s most valued traditions of excellence, and for decades they have been without dedicated space on campus to rehearse,ā€ President Gonzalez said. ā€œIt is a priority for me to build a permanent home for the Marching 110, and, thanks to the Hurleys, we will be able to move this project forward. We will name the new practice field in their honor.ā€

The new Marching 110 Band Complex, featuring Hurley Field, promises to be the pinnacle of its kind within the Mid-American Conference and will boast state-of-the-art features tailored specifically for the needs of the Marching 110. It will be located along South Shafer Street adjacent to OHIOā€™s Chessa Field soccer facility. Among its highlights will be a turf installation to support rehearsals in all weather conditions, a directorā€™s tower for optimal viewing of formations, restroom facilities to accommodate both band members and visitors to the nearby soccer field and additional amenities aimed at enhancing the band's practice experience.

ā€œOur time as members of the Marching 110 was such a gift. Not only did we experience unforgettable rehearsals, performances and travel across the country ā€“ we got to do it alongside a group of individuals who became lifelong friends and family,ā€ said Shawn Hurley, a former Marching 110 trumpet player who also served as the band's Field Commander in 2004. ā€œWeā€™re so proud to help build a forever home for the 110 and give back to an organization that has always felt like home to us. Both Tracey and I hope this gift will ensure the continued success and growth of the Marching 110 for generations to come.ā€

51ĀŅĀ× aims to complete Hurley Field in time for the Fall 2026 band season; however, further support is needed from Marching 110 alumni, fans and friends to realize this ambitious vision. 

The University has set an initial fundraising goal of $3 million to construct the Marching 110 Band Complex. Numerous opportunities are available for donors to join alongside the Hurley family and leave a lasting legacy through naming gifts.

For those eager to contribute to the band's future home, . To learn more about how to get involved, visit ohio.edu/marching-110/band-complex.