FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Spartans Drum & Bugle Corps Announce Collaboration with the DCI Eastern Classic Committee
Nashua, NH — June 10, 2026 — The Spartans Drum & Bugle Corps is excited to announce a new collaboration with the DCI Eastern Classic Committee. The Spartans have been selected by the committee to design and produce the official J. Birney Crum commemorative T-shirt for the 2026 season.
“We are honored to have been chosen by the committee to design and produce this J. Birney Crum commemorative T-shirt,” said Paul LaFlamme, Executive Director of the Spartans Drum & Bugle Corps. “As we enter our inaugural season in DCI World Class competition, this is an exciting opportunity for us.”
“It has been an amazing partnership with the committee, and we are already looking forward to designing the 50th Anniversary shirt for next year,” added Andy Smolko, Marketing & Communications Director for the Spartans Drum & Bugle Corps.
One of the most exciting aspects of this collaboration is that a portion of every commemorative T-shirt sale will help establish a new scholarship program administered by the DCI Eastern Classic Committee. The scholarship initiative will support future generations involved in the marching arts and help continue the legacy of J. Birney Crum Stadium for years to come.
“We are very excited to team up on this project with the Spartans during their first year in World Class competition,” said Mitch Huston, Chairman of the DCI Eastern Classic Committee. “The committee has discussed for many years the need to celebrate this very special and iconic venue with a T-shirt, especially with the 50th anniversary approaching next year.”
“We first approached Matt Mackay of the Spartans at the 2025 DCI Eastern Classic and were impressed with the work being done to build the Spartans’ merchandise program,” added longtime DCI Eastern Classic committee member, Ray Luden. “We knew immediately that they would be the right partner to help bring this idea to life.”
The J. Birney Crum commemorative T-shirt will be available immediately through the Spartans online store and at DCI events throughout the season, including the DCI Eastern Classic. The shirt was designed by Addison Ledley, and fans are encouraged to keep an eye out for several hidden “Easter eggs” incorporated into the design.
To purchase the J. Birney Crum commemorative T-shirt, visit the Spartans online store or stop by the Spartans merchandise booth during the 2026 tour season.
For more information about the Spartans Drum & Bugle Corps, visit the organization’s official website.