MANHATTAN (KSNT) – The St. Patrick’s Day festivities aren’t over in the Little Apple, as a familiar face at Kansas State University will take on a special role in the city’s parade on March 21.
Longtime K-State marching band director Frank Tracz has been named grand marshal for Manhattan’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade — leading the festivities ahead of his retirement this summer.
Tracz has spent 33 years directing the Wildcats’ marching band, becoming a staple of game days and campus life. He said he didn’t hesitate when asked to take on the honor, though he joked about initially laughing at the invitation.
“When they asked me to do that, I started laughing… and I said, ‘Sure,’ and I didn’t think twice about it,” Tracz said.
Originally from the Cleveland, Ohio area, Tracz knew as early as seventh grade that he wanted to become a band director. He said the career offered a perfect blend of music and a lifestyle that kept him out from behind a desk.
“You’ve got to find something you really want to do and want to spend your time at,” he said.
When he first accepted the job at K-State more than three decades ago, Tracz admits he had never even heard of the university. What he thought would be a short stop turned into a lifelong career.
“I thought I’d stay here for a year or two and go back home, and it’s been 33 years… This is home,” Tracz said.
Over the years, Tracz says he’s pushed himself physically, undergoing multiple surgeries while continuing to lead and mentor students. Watching those students grow is what he says he will miss the most.
“I feel hopeful about the future, until I go home and watch the news. What’s going on in the world is a dumpster fire everywhere… We’re going to be okay. We just got to get them in charge,” he said.
His wife has dubbed this past year as his “Farewell Frank” tour, as he wraps up his final months as the band director before officially laying down the baton in June.
“Enjoy what you do because it goes fast… this has gone fast. I mean, it’s over,” Tracz said.
Even after stepping away from the field, Tracz says he plans to stay connected to the program and support the band moving forward — ensuring his legacy continues long after the final note. He’ll lead one more celebration this weekend, serving as grand marshal for the marching band in Manhattan’s St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 21.
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