Washington State pays tribute to Washington after band involved in bus crash

The Washington student band won’t be at the Apple Cup but the Huskies fight song will still be played by the rival Washington State band after a bus crash kept them from attending.

Rivalries in college sports are known for the hatred between two programs but Washington State is changing that perception.

The Apple Cup between Washington State and Washington will determine the winner of the Pac-12 North but that wasn’t the story before the game. The story prior to kick was the Thanksgiving night bus crash that was transporting the Washington student band. The bus rolled onto its side and 25 band members were treated at hospitals near George, Washington, but thankfully, none were life-threatening injuries.

Unfortunately, the band will not make it to Pullman for the Apple Cup.

In their absence, the Washington State band will play the Washington fight song in a sign of great class by the rival school.

This is another example of sports bringing out the best in people, but really, this is about more than sports. This is great sportsmanship and shows a lot of respect for their rival. In an era of toxic fandom and the worst fan behavior in the spotlight, this is a great gesture that should not be overlooked.

The Washington fight song was played before kickoff as seen in the video below.

This is certainly not what the Washington band members hoped would happen on their Thanksgiving, and for many, this will be their final Apple Cup. The memories may not be entirely pleasant, but through this classy gesture, they’ll have a pleasant memory they can tuck away in their hearts thanks to the Wazzu band.

Let this be an example for others to follow. Not all rivalries have to be about out-hating the other side. A lot of respect for the rival and a touch of class goes a long way.

Here’s to the Washington band making it home safely.