A Family Tradition: Sydney Reeves Continues a legacy with Script Ohio
For Sydney Reeves, October 4th wasn’t just another game day at Ohio Stadium; it was the culmination of a lifelong dream. The Dublin, Ohio native was chosen to dot the “i” in the iconic Script Ohio formation during halftime of the Ohio State Buckeyes‘ game against Minnesota, continuing a family legacy spanning generations.
The tradition, now in its 89th year, holds a special significance for the Reeves family. SydneyS mother, Wendy, dotted the “i” as a member of the ohio State Marching band, a feat uncommon for women at the time she joined the band as an 11-year-old persistent to play the tuba. This early achievement inspired both Wendy and, ultimately, sydney.
Sydney learned of her selection in April and immediately began rigorous preparation. She practiced the distinctive strut – 16 kicks with a leaning back motion – in her backyard, receiving detailed feedback from her mother, who analyzed her technique much like a football coach. Further training with the drum major in July focused on coordinating the movement with the sousaphone player leading the way, all while maintaining proper breathing for playing her instrument.
A “practice run” presented itself during the alumni game against Grambling on September 6th. Sydney was one of several students chosen to dot the “i” that day, a particularly meaningful experience as her mother, aunt, and uncle - all band alumni – marched alongside her on the field.
However, the game against Minnesota offered a unique opportunity: the spotlight would be solely on Sydney. As the band completed their halftime performance, the public address announcer introduced her as the one to bring the Script Ohio tradition to its finale.
Wendy Reeves watched from the stands,offering silent encouragement,mentally tracking each step her daughter needed to execute. Sydney, focused on years of coaching, followed the drum major, completing each stride with precision. She dotted the “i” and bowed, outwardly composed, but inwardly connected to her late father.
Sydney carried a buckeye – a small token representing her father’s presence - tucked under her uniform. He had previously dotted the “i” himself, and she felt his encouragement and courage with her on the field. “I do feel like it brought me closer to him,” sydney saeid, acknowledging the emotional weight of the moment. “It would’ve been even more special if he could be there in person. But it was very special that I had his buckeye, and I had his memories.”
The moment passed quickly, and Sydney was met with a wave of congratulations in the stands. Her mother received countless high-fives and acknowledgements, though Wendy humbly insisted she had simply been a spectator.
Sydney’s achievement is historic: she is the first child of two Ohio State “i dotters” to also perform the tradition. She described the experience as “a fairy tale that you see in movies,” a memory she will cherish forever.
Immediately after the performance, Wendy sent a text message to her daughter: “Sweet dot, baby.” It was a simple message, but one that encapsulated a lifetime of dedication, family pride, and the fulfillment of a shared dream.
