UPDATED: UT says it supports marching band, counters allegations

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

photo University of Tennessee's marching band takes the field before the first half against Austin Peay at Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2013, in Knoxville, Tenn. (ADAM LAU/NEWS SENTINEL)

KNOXVILLE - University of Tennessee officials said Wednesday they support the Pride of the Southland and its students, but insisted many of the accusations the band made against the athletic department were incorrect.

The campus administration sent out its own news release late Wednesday afternoon, countering a two-page "fact sheet" the band circulated to media earlier in the day that accused athletics of trying to eliminate band performances during football games.

The band's statement details a two-year contentious relationship with Athletics Director Dave Hart, accuses the department of slashing budgets, reducing band travel and limiting when during football games the musicians can play.

Read more at Knoxnews.com.