The Iowa and Iowa State athletics departments have issued a joint statement about “rude, vulgar and, in some cases, violent behavior” directed at the Hawkeye and Cyclone marching bands during their rivalry games.

The statement indicated both the Hawkeye and Cyclone marching bands “have been the target of unacceptable behavior at football games” in Ames and Iowa City in recent years. The athletic directors said everyone should be embarrassed when students in the bands don’t feel safe when performing at an away game. The athletics directors said fans are “a significant part of the solution” by providing a “safe stage” for both bands inside the stadiums and showing respect to the musicians.