Script Ohio and the Art of “Dotting the I”: A History of Ohio State’s Grand Tradition
In the landscape of American college football, few traditions are as iconic or deeply woven into the tapestry of a university’s identity as Ohio State’s “Script Ohio” and the subsequent “dotting of the i.” A spectacle that invokes chills and emotional surges for the fans, it’s not just a halftime show — it’s a revered ritual that symbolizes Buckeye pride.
The Inception of Script Ohio
The history of Script Ohio can be traced back to October 24, 1936, when the Ohio State Marching Band first performed the intricate maneuver. The concept was created by Eugene Weigel, who was the band’s director from 1933 to 1939. Weigel was inspired by the looping and swirls of a signature or script, hence the name “Script Ohio.” The idea was to spell out “Ohio” on the field in cursive script, creating a spectacle that would be visually enthralling from the stands.
Contrary to popular belief, Ohio State wasn’t the first school to attempt a script formation. The University of Michigan had experimented with similar concepts, but it was at Ohio State that the formation gained its legendary status and became synonymous with the university.
The Choreography of Script Ohio
The choreography involves more than mere marching; it’s a calculated and intricate performance. Approximately 225 band members assemble at the sideline, waiting for their cue. Then, with trumpet fanfare and drumbeat, the band members flow onto the field like ink from a quill, creating a script “Ohio” that stretches from sideline to sideline. The formation starts with the “O,” proceeds with the “H” and “I,” and culminates in the “o” before the ceremonial “dotting of the i.”
“Dotting the I”: The Culmination of Tradition
While the Script Ohio formation is visually stunning, the emotional apex is the “dotting of the i.” In this finale, a senior sousaphone player, selected well in advance, struts to the top of the “i” with a high-kicking, arm-swinging gait. Upon reaching the spot, the sousaphone player takes a bow and points to the crowd, a salutation to the fans and a nod to the tradition that has become larger than life. The crowd erupts in applause and cheers, completing the ritual that has become a sacred Ohio State tradition.
The Prestige of Dotting the I
The privilege of “dotting the i” is one of the highest honors within the Ohio State Marching Band, usually reserved for fourth- or fifth-year sousaphone players. The selection process is meticulous, taking into account seniority, musicianship, and marching ability. It’s an honor that band members vie for from the moment they join, knowing the deep cultural significance and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of something that is cherished by the Ohio State community.
The Exceptional “I-Dotters”
Though the honor of dotting the “i” is almost exclusively reserved for sousaphone players, there have been rare occasions when non-band members were granted this esteemed privilege. Notable examples include legendary Ohio State coaches Woody Hayes and Earle Bruce. Astronaut and Ohio native John Glenn also had the honor of dotting the “i,” showcasing the reverence and broad appeal of this tradition.
Script Ohio in Modern Times
Today, Script Ohio is often considered the “signature” formation of the Ohio State Marching Band, often referred to as “The Best Damn Band in the Land” (TBDBITL). With advances in technology, performances are now recorded and shared widely on social media platforms, allowing Buckeye fans around the world to partake in this long-standing tradition.
Moreover, the band has taken Script Ohio to new venues, including NFL halftime shows, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and even overseas performances. Yet, despite its global reach, the formation’s most poignant renderings are still those performed in Ohio Stadium, also known as “The Horseshoe,” in front of a sea of scarlet and gray.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The influence of Script Ohio extends beyond the university and has found its way into the larger cultural narrative of Ohio and college football. It’s a source of state pride, a staple in the history of marching band formations, and a symbol of the community and unity that college sports can bring.
Final Thoughts
Script Ohio and the “dotting of the i” are more than just halftime entertainment. They are time-honored traditions that encapsulate the spirit, pride, and community of Ohio State University. From the meticulous choreography to the honor of being the “i-dotter,” every aspect of this ritual is steeped in meaning. For the players, the fans, and especially the band members who keep this tradition alive, Script Ohio is a symbol of unity, a performance of skill, and a declaration of identity that resonates with the Buckeye community, young and old alike.
So the next time you find yourself in the heart of Ohio, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, don’t miss the chance to witness one of the most iconic traditions in college football history. When the sousaphone player dots that “i,” you’re not just watching a performance; you’re experiencing a piece of living history. — Brad Kern
