**Ohio State Thanks Netflix for Groundbreaking Documentary on Team and Band Group**
*Columbus, OH – January 23, 2025* – Ohio State University, one of the most iconic athletic institutions in the country, has issued a heartfelt public statement expressing gratitude toward Netflix for its recently released documentary, *The Heart of the Buckeyes: A Journey Through Team and Band*. The documentary, which delves into the intricate dynamics between the university’s athletic teams and their legendary marching band, has received widespread acclaim for its ability to showcase the human side of sports and music at Ohio State.
In a press conference earlier today, Ohio State’s Athletic Director, Gene Smith, alongside the Director of the Ohio State Marching Band, Dr. Christopher Hoch, expressed their deep appreciation to Netflix and the documentary’s filmmakers for shedding light on the often-overlooked relationship between the athletes and the band members. The film takes viewers on an emotional and inspiring journey through the rituals, traditions, and untold stories that make Ohio State football and the accompanying band one of the most unique experiences in collegiate sports.
“I think one of the most beautiful things about this documentary is that it paints an honest and comprehensive picture of what makes our Ohio State community so special,” said Smith. “We’ve long known that our fans love the electric atmosphere at the Horseshoe, but *The Heart of the Buckeyes* elevates that experience by showing the behind-the-scenes bonds that exist between our student-athletes and the talented musicians who accompany them.”
The film, directed by acclaimed documentarian Ava Patel, features an intimate portrayal of key players from both the football team and the Ohio State Marching Band. Through in-depth interviews, archival footage, and exclusive access to training sessions, practices, and performances, Patel brings to life the collaborative energy that fuels the Buckeye spirit. The documentary explores how the football players and band members support each other, from the roar of the fans in the stadium to the electrifying halftime shows that have become synonymous with Ohio State football.
“We’ve always said that football isn’t just about the game on the field, but the community we build around it,” said Dr. Hoch. “Our band is a crucial part of that community. The partnership between the band and the athletes is not just a symbol of Ohio State spirit; it’s a tangible expression of the hard work, dedication, and joy we share as a collective unit. We’re incredibly thankful to Netflix for helping tell that story in such an authentic way.”
The documentary also highlights some personal stories of athletes and band members whose lives have been impacted by their experiences at Ohio State. These narratives range from players who grew up dreaming of playing in front of the Buckeye Nation, to band members whose pride and passion for music have shaped their college experience. The touching moments showcase how deeply ingrained the tradition of Ohio State football and its halftime shows are in the lives of those who participate in them.
“It’s truly an honor to be part of such an incredible tradition,” said senior linebacker, Kevin Walker. “Watching the band perform at halftime, feeling that energy from the crowd, and knowing we’re all in this together—it’s a feeling that transcends words. The documentary captures that spirit perfectly, and I think it will resonate with fans, athletes, and students alike for years to come.”
Ohio State fans, who are known for their unwavering loyalty to the team, have expressed immense pride in seeing their beloved school and its traditions represented so authentically. Social media has been buzzing with praise for the documentary, with many viewers sharing personal memories of their own experiences with Ohio State football and the marching band.
“I’ve been to every home game for the past 15 years, and I’ve never fully understood just how much work goes into those halftime shows,” said longtime fan Jill Thompson. “The documentary gave me a whole new level of appreciation for the band and the athletes. I had tears in my eyes watching how they come together to create something magical for us every Saturday. Thank you to Netflix for giving us a closer look at the heart of Ohio State!”
The collaboration between Netflix and Ohio State was a long time coming. Over the past few years, both the athletic department and the university’s music program had been in talks with Netflix about creating a project that would showcase the powerful connection between sports and music at the school. After a series of interviews, discussions, and countless hours of planning, the documentary was born.
Netflix executives, particularly the series’ executive producer, Tony Hill, shared their gratitude for Ohio State’s willingness to open up to the world. “Ohio State’s commitment to excellence in both athletics and music is unparalleled,” said Hill. “It was a privilege to work with such an iconic institution to bring this story to life. The passion and dedication of everyone involved—athletes, band members, coaches, and directors—was truly inspiring.”
Moving forward, Ohio State is hopeful that the documentary will help inspire a new generation of students to appreciate the broader significance of collegiate sports and the arts. The university has already seen an uptick in applications from prospective students interested in both athletic programs and the music school. The documentary’s success has also sparked conversations about how to further foster collaboration between different student groups, encouraging more multidisciplinary projects within the university.
“The message of this documentary is clear: Ohio State is more than just a football team,” said Smith. “It’s about a community, a family, a culture that thrives on hard work, passion, and tradition. We’re proud to share that with the world, and we’re grateful to Netflix for helping us do so.”
As for the Ohio State Marching Band, they are already preparing for their next performance, where they promise to bring the same energy and dedication that made them the heart of this unforgettable documentary.
Ohio State’s football team, marching band, and the entire university community are forever grateful to Netflix for bringing their story to the screen, further solidifying the Buckeye legacy in the hearts of fans nationwide.
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