Backyard Brawl: The Cavaliers vs Phantom Regiment

Friday, July 6th, 2012 - 9:25 PM
By Christopher Lugo

The Cavaliers and Phantom Regiment both proudly represent the State of Illinois with long and storied histories since 1948 and 1956, respectively. As the friendly in-state rivalry has grown over the past half century, these two Midwest drum corps are ready to bring the neighborly competition directly to the fans.

Introducing the Backyard Brawl - A Fundraising Challenge between The Cavaliers and Phantom Regiment!

From July 7 to July 25, friends, fans, family and alumni have the opportunity to decide which Illinois corps is really "number 1" by making a tax-deductible donation to The Cavaliers via Cavaliers.org or Phantom Regiment via Regiment.org.

Fans are also encouraged to donate at each corps souvenir booths during the contest.

Along the way, each side will provide updates as to which corps is on top of the battle, giving everyone the chance to push their favorite corps to the 2012 Backyard Brawl championship!

"With less than 80 miles separating our hometowns, this fundraising challenge is a great way to highlight each corps' history and play on the rivalry we've enjoyed over the years," said Adolph DeGrauwe, president and corps director of The Cavaliers.

The contest ends at midnight on Wednesday, July 25, but fans will stay in suspense until the official results are announced at the DCI Atlanta Southeastern Championship on Saturday, July 28 - The winning corps gets bragging rights for an entire year!

"We look forward to bringing the spirit of competition from the field to the Backyard Brawl," added Rick Valenzuela, executive director of Phantom Regiment. "Ultimately, this challenge gives our dedicated friends, fans, family and alumni the chance to support each corps and have a little fun!"

The Cavaliers Drum & Bugle Corps and Phantom Regiment Drum & Bugle Corps are both 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations. Contributions to The Cavaliers and Phantom Regiment are tax-deductible as allowed by the law.

Have fun and let the Backyard Brawl begin!

Backyard Brawl Facebook Timeline Cover

Founded in 1948, The Cavaliers are one of the most successful drum and bugle corps in history, winning 20 national championships, including seven Drum Corps International world championships since 1992. Each summer, 150 male brass, percussion and color guard performers aged 16-22 present a marching music show considered among the most challenging and original in the world.

The group performs at more than 30 competitions across the US and for more than 100,000 fans. Along the way, the young men not only learn about music and performing, but have a life-changing experience based on excellence, teamwork and camaraderie.

The Cavaliers Drum & Bugle Corps is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization sponsored by The Village of Rosemont, Illinois.