"I am ecstatic to be of service to the Boston Crusaders organization and to be working with a team of extraordinary professionals. With Tom and Justin's leadership I know that this corps is in very good administrative hands. Facilitating the design process with Ellis, Ryan, Darryl and Matt will be an honor. These folks have all the skills and experience to collectively put together a remarkable program for 2013. In addition, it is a distinct privilege to coordinate the efforts of the dedicated Crusaders staff. My life involved with drum corps has placed me in this unique opportunity and I am very excited to get this rolling!"

Joining Eric will be the following returning members of the design and instructional team: Ryan George (brass arranger), Ellis Hampton (percussion arranger and caption head), Matt Winans (guard designer and caption head), Chad Pence (brass caption head) and Darryl Pemberton (visual caption head). Pemberton will also take over the visual design position from Brian Murphy, who will be focusing on new project development with Executive Director Tom Spataro.

"Brian played a large part in our success in the early 2000s and since his return to us in 2008. I am extremely grateful for the time and dedication he has given to the Crusaders and look forward to his collaboration in one more aspect of our future growth," said Spataro. "Eric and the 2013 team are already hard at work and will have some news to share within the month."

Fill out an application now to register for 2013 audition materials.