I appreciated the offer, but...

I was honored when one of the high school symphonic band directors asked if I'd like to join the band.  Still, I thought, "I play an upright bass.  Where is there a place for a double bass in the context of trumpets, trombones, clarinets, and so on?  With all these brass and winds players, how would anyone be able to hear the bass?  Also, how in the world would you march with it?"  I think it was best that I stuck to the orchestra.