The Irish Guard is a group of uniformed students that leads the University of Notre Dame Marching Band onto the field at home games. They are considered one of the integral parts in the pageantry, lore, and legend of Notre Dame football.

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History

The Irish Guard was formed in 1949 as a part of the University of Notre Dame Marching Band. The uniform of the guard was based on the pattern of the traditional Scottish kilt and incorporates the unique Notre Dame tartan. When wearing the entire uniform, a member of the guard stands eight feet tall to the top of the shako. They serve as body guards for the Fighting Irish Marching Band as seen at the USC game, November 28, 2008.

Requirements

Irish Guard members must be physically strong, mentally tough, well-coordinated, and most importantly, at least 6'2". Given the popularity of the Guard, tryouts are held annually in August at the beginning of the school year. Up to 60 candidates will try out for the Guard to fill any openings in the 10-member Guard each year.

These representatives of the Notre Dame Irish Guard, past and present, do not seek public recognition for their service to the University or for the hours of work they put each day into maintaining the highest standards of excellence.