Just to the left of “Gator Nation” and in the bleachers behind the far baseline of The Swamp sits a newly formed student group clad in a purple and yellow rugby styled shirt and blue jeans. The group has been slowly increasing in numbers and making itself heard at Gator home basketball games.

They are the Pep Band.

Directed by music education major Lance Ohnmeiss, 25, for the past four months, the band has played during the men’s basketball home games this season and boast musicians with varied musical experience. Some members played in high school marching bands and others are perfecting their instrument and song in front of the Gator crowd.

“We’re about mid-level,” Ohnmeiss said. “But we’re building everyday and getting better.”

Although practices are not held daily, the group can be heard holding practice and auditions every Friday in the Creative Arts Building from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on their wind, brass, and percussion instruments.

“People think you have to be a music major to play,” Ohnmeiss said. “ All you have to do is play an instrument. The more it takes hold, the more support it will get.”

At the moment, the Pep Band has about 20 members on their list, with about 10-15 showing up to games on a regular basis, mainly due to family responsibilities and school scheduling issues.

“Everyone in the band keeps a positive attitude that helps [us] get through some of the stress college has to offer,” 19-year-old trombonist Kyle Hildebrant. “We always find room to laugh and have a great time no matter what situation.”

To some, the important thing is that they are having fun and enjoy what they’re doing.

“It makes games more special, it’s very exciting,” men’s basketball coach, Bill Treseler said. “They’re one of the real key points of the home atmosphere for the team.”

Treseler only had one recommendation for the band when it comes to music, as they currently play typical fight songs and marching band tunes.

“Maybe they can get a list of my favorite songs,” he said jokingly. “I hope they have enough people to play during the break at home games. Parents have good responses about the band.”

Over the break, the Gator men’s basketball team will host five conference opponents, Humboldt State, Sonoma State, Cal State Dominguez Hills, Cal State L.A. and CSU Monterey Bay, in which one can relish the excitement.

“We would love to have more people to come play with us and join in on the good times,” Hildebrant said. “Let’s show our SF State spirit!”