The man who kept marching after the Colts left Baltimore – WISH-TV | Indianapolis News | Indiana Weather

BALTIMORE (WISH) — The story has been informed many occasions over: 1984. In a single day. The Colts pack up and go away Baltimore. However there’s one man who stored marching.

Born and raised in Baltimore, John Ziemann isn’t shy about his love for his metropolis, his groups or his job.

“I went to a Baltimore Colts recreation in 1956, and I noticed that they had a marching band and … I mentioned, ‘That is it. I’ve obtained to be in that band.’ After which (on) April 4, 1962, I auditioned. I used to be solely 14 — I lied about my age. You needed to be 15,” Ziemann mentioned.

That audition changed into a lifetime position — one which continued on even after the Colts left city.

“I stepped ahead and mentioned we’re holding this group collectively — not solely me, however each member mentioned we’re staying collectively to deliver soccer again to Baltimore,” he mentioned.

In 1984, the band participated in parades and concert events, and in 1985, the group determined to go on the street — and that’s what they did till 1996 when the Baltimore Ravens have been born.

Ziemann, now 74, serves because the Baltimore Ravens marching band president.

You’ll be able to watch the Ravens play Colts reside on WISH-TV Monday, together with in depth post-game protection.