Newark City Schools Dedicates “Randall Lamb Field” in Honor of Longtime Band Director

Newark City Schools proudly announces the official naming of its new turf practice field for the Pride of Newark Marching Band as Randall Lamb Field in honor of former band director Randy Lamb, who led the program with distinction from 1980 to 2008.

Construction of a new turf practice field for the Pride of Newark Band is set to begin in the coming months on the Newark High School campus, with completion expected by mid-summer 2025. The Gilbert Reese Family Foundation and Lou Reese are major donors to the project and are thrilled that the field will bear Mr. Lamb’s name in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the music programs within Newark City Schools.

Randy Lamb played a significant role in shaping the success of Newark’s band program. In 1981, the marching band was officially named “The Pride of Newark” during their performance at the College Football Hall of Fame Contest — the name that has since become synonymous with excellence in Newark’s music program. Earlier that same year, the NHS band made history by reaching the finals of their first-ever prelims/finals contest.

“It is indeed a great honor to have this field bear my name,” Lamb said. “My years at NHS were very special. To all of the band members, my teaching colleagues, the BEST parents club and boosters in Ohio, many great administrators and this wonderful community I owe much gratitude. I must offer thanks to my family and friends, especially my wife and son for their support.”

Under Mr. Lamb’s direction, the Pride of Newark Marching Band consistently advanced to the OMEA State Marching Band Finals — a tradition that has continued since his retirement. The group has earned a superior rating in 34 of their 44 consecutive appearances. The streak of appearances at OMEA State Marching Band Finals is an achievement matched by only one other school in the state. Mr. Lamb’s leadership built a tradition of musical excellence that continues to inspire students and audiences alike.

“Randy Lamb was more than a band director—he was a guiding force for generations of Newark students,” said Lee Auer, Newark Director of Bands since 2016. “His passion and dedication to music education left an indelible mark on our school and community, and we are honored to name this field after him.”

Sarah Wallace, Chair of The Gilbert Reese Family Foundation, added, “We could not be more thrilled to recognize Randy in this way. So many of us who have been in Newark for decades have personal memories of the great work he did with students within the Newark Schools. We think this is a wonderful way in which to recognize his life’s work. We are also very fortunate to have Lee Auer as the current Director of Bands following in Randy’s footsteps and working to ensure the future success of Newark’s music programs. Lee’s leadership and passion for the project has helped to make this a reality for thousands of current and future Newark music students.”

Mr. Auer has been instrumental in the planning and fundraising efforts for the new turf field, ensuring that the Pride of Newark Marching Band has a state-of-the-art rehearsal space to continue its tradition of excellence for years to come.

For more information about the Pride of Newark Marching Band or the Randall Lamb Field project, please contact Lee Auer at LAuer@newarkcityschools.org

About the Pride of Newark Marching Band

The Pride of Newark Marching Band is a premier high school marching ensemble known for its musical excellence, dynamic performances, and deep-rooted traditions. During the 2024 season the Pride of Newark earned superior ratings at 4 local OMEA events along with being named grand champions at the Licking Valley Band Fest for the second straight season. The season culminated with the program's 34th overall superior rating at OMEA State Marching Band Finals. With a long history of success, the band continues to inspire students and audiences alike through its commitment to artistry and discipline.