Can you believe it? We’re almost here! DCI 2023 is almost underway.
I’ve spent a fair amount of time following off season activity and think that we might have, top to bottom, one of the most competitive seasons in recent DCI history. And not just at the “top” but through each “tier” of competition.
I honestly consider this the first season “since COVID” since last season was marred by it with our guys taking as big or bigger of a hit than anyone. Let’s pray it’s in the rear view.
As I look at our first show, there are some interesting storylines in the competitive realm.
In 2019, I would’ve looked at this first show roster and pre-circled a “win” for our Cavaliers. But it’s 2023 now… Phantom Regiment is thankfully returning to old form. The Blue Stars have improved dramatically. And our guys, like a lot of other corps post COVID, had big ageout classes in 2021 and 2022. Throw in a new direction with teaching staff and what do you get?
The Unknown! Which is super exciting for a fan of the overall activity.
Some other general observations surrounding the “COVID era” of DCI.
1. In general, I think the COVID era allowed corps to tack back a little towards their traditional roots. Phantom put on a more traditional show in 2021 as did our guys. Less props, and a lot of focus on just plain entertainment and fun.
2. That said, two corps chose to use the “unjudged” season of 2021 to hone their design chops and put on a seriously competitive show in a “exhibition year”. Boston Crusaders and Bluestars. You’d have to say it helped their programs significantly in the competition realm as both made significant moves in 2022.
3. That said, I wouldn’t trade “Live From The Rose” for anything! Super fun, crowd entertaining, and not stressing over scores and rewrites was the right call in a year of pandemic stress and the unknowns of touring with it.
So what does this all mean for 2023? No one knows! But the first look at that will be Wednesday night… and I’m predicting without seeing a step or hearing a note that we’ll be in an immediate competitive elbow swing with Phantom and Bluestars.
And that’s what excites me! And to be clear, I want to see the BEST out of each corps. I don’t quietly hope another corps has rifle drops, botched drill, a splatted note, etc. Nope! Let’s see the best! Then the fans win regardless. And when the fans react to our kids’ hard work… they’ve already won. Scores don’t matter.
So here’s to great stepoff Wednesday night. And to the best initial run we have in us . Then letting the scoring chips fall where they may.
Let’s get it, Green Machine!
Rolling With the Cavaliers 