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Stop right there! No, literally — stop your knee. Hold it up right there at the top, with your toe pointed down. This move, known as “stop at the top,” is one of the UW Marching Band’s signatures, introduced by longtime band director Mike Leckrone upon his arrival in 1969. In this variation of a high step, a musician raises their knee and “hesitates” when their thigh is at a 45-degree angle. Though it may sound simple, achieving this iconic visual requires perfect execution of several key elements. But don’t take our word for it. Drum major Caleb Monge x’26 will show you how it’s done. What really makes the UW band stand out, though, is the legendary Fifth Quarter. While some bands pack it up when the final whistle blows, Bucky’s crew takes it up a notch with a rambunctious postgame performance. The band takes center field for a medley of UW hits, including polkas, crowd sing-alongs, spontaneous dancing, and a whole lot of Badger spirit. It’s not just music — it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and joy. When you’ve said Wisconsin, you’ve really said it all.

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