Navy band kicks off TPC in new clubhouse

The Players Championship Journal
Friday, May 11, 2007
Navy band kicks off TPC in new clubhouse
Vic Micolucci

Saxophone player David Collins avoids the rain before playing at the new clubhouse.


“You’re not asking about Phil, are you?” asked Musician First Class David Collins.

The Southwest Navy Band has performed for crowds at many events, but lately all attention has centered around American Idol finalist Phil Stacey. Though the star was absent, the band took to the stage and performed at the Players Championship Clubhouse Wednesday. The uniformed sailors of the Southwest band shielded their tubas and trumpets from the afternoon rain in Ponte Vedra. The band quickly toted its equipment from the Navy Econoline vans to the course’s rookie clubhouse.

The Jacksonville crew played for a Hall of Fame induction ceremony at Sawgrass’ new, $50 million clubhouse. Saxophone player David Collins said Jacksonville is a “Navy town” and the Players is trying to support the military as much as possible during today’s intense conflicts.

Though the band was not dry by the time it got inside for its gig, the service men and women enjoyed their time and hoped to even catch a little golf before the day was over.