LAFAYETTE — Drum lines across the country competed on Monday at Cajun Field. "Drums Across Cajun Field" happens every year, but for many, there's a reason they keep coming back.
If you were anywhere near Cajun Field Monday evening,it may have sounded like halftime on game day.
Ten drum lines from all over were in Lafayette for the yearly Drum Corps International Competition.
"There's usually weeks and weeks of training and hours of individual practice time at home. We are out there 12 hours a day, practicing and perfecting a 12 minute performance just for fans and people who like the sport," said Snare Drummer, Conner Holmes.
The participants start practice in early summer and spend the summer on the road and perform more than 30 shows, all in hopes of making it to the championship.
"This is kind of a sport of its own. They even refer to it sometime as a sport of the arts. This is a good time for people to come and listen to some really great music and watch a marching band live and loud," said Assistant Director of bands, Brett Landry.
Teams from as far as New Jersey were in Lafayette, happy to experience what they call "The Swamp".
"It's so cool just seeing the different venues of each stadium and the places around because I've never been to Louisiana before so its kind of neat to visit all these states," said Color Guard Captain, Caroline Method.
As much as the performers enjoy it, supporters come for a good time as well.
"For them to leave home and leave their own band and music programs and to bring their ideas and skills to do something like this are all the skills companies are looking for. How to work with others, how to collaborate, how to get our of your comfort zone..Drum Corps will do that for you," said former band director, James Square.
