Documentary captures impact of Wisconsin fight song
A documentary highlighting the powerful history, rich culture and impact of the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s fight song, “On, Wisconsin!” premieres on the Big Ten Network at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 21.
In commemoration of the song’s 100th anniversary, “100 years of ‘On, Wisconsin!'” explores the upbeat complex march through song, footage and exclusive interviews, including Al Toon, former football and track star; Mike Leckrone, director of the UW Marching Band; and Barry Alvarez, director of athletics and former head football coach.
Produced by University Communications in collaboration with John Roach Projects, an award-winning production company based in Fitchburg, Wis., this half-hour special explains how “On, Wisconsin!” almost belonged to another Big Ten university, how it inspires athletes and fans and what it means to alumni.
To get you in the spirit for the upcoming bowl game, “100 years of ‘On, Wisconsin!'” also features videos of the band on game day, an original a cappella arrangement and photos dating back to the university’s beginnings, including the first known photo of the UW Marching Band.
In conjunction with the anniversary, UW–Madison is sponsoring a video song competition. To find out how to participate and to view submissions, visit http://onwisconsin.wisc.edu/.
Early contest submissions are making their television debuts during the documentary. Tune in for a funky rendition from UW Hip Hop; a group effort from first- and second-graders at the Illinois elementary school attended by Badgers quarterback Scott Tolzien; and a high-stepping vocal performance from UW Marching Band members warming up before practice.
Learn more about the history of “On, Wisconsin!” courtesy the UW–Madison Libraries archives.
The documentary will be rebroadcast on the Big Ten Network at 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 28; at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 12; and at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 26.
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