MadDadi07

NEVER....EVER....What absolute and utter nonsense.

They are there because DCI has recently had them moved from area 51, where they have been rehearsing for finals. If you havent heard, they got a bye for the entire season and will be competing at Finals. Why you ask? It's a shoe thing (they really do have the coolest shoes).

Dude, step away from the soapbox.....it's a thing called humor...perhaps you've heard of it?

Not to be alarmed...your confusion is understandable, just very inside reference to one of the other Academy threads. Now you may return to your Academy love fest unmolested....or would that be unabated....that is all.

No hatin here, no beatings required either.....I just can't figure out why they won't come out and play with all the other kids. Oh...and what's the deal with them not being able to afford any socks?

I know the part about their socks is not true.....I have it from a well placed source that they could'nt afford socks this year.

In 2005 and 2006, I had the distinct privelege and honor to be associated with the Blue Stars as a Blue Stars parent. I traveled a bit with the Corps in a volunteer capacity both years. During the 2005 tour in Div2, there was much discussion of their impending return to Div1 for 2006. The 2005 tour resembled a full Div1 in terms of the number of shows, as well as the amount of geography covered that year. That 2005 tour was talked about in terms of proving to DCI, that Blue Stars was capable of returning to Div1. The Corps was looked at from top to bottom, from finances, to transportation, to how well the members were being fed. At no time can I recall any discussion of either doing a partial tour, or of even having the option to do so. Perhaps that would have been somewhat above my pay grade, but the impression I had was that the Corps had to prove in all respects that they could hang with the big dogs. The 2006 tour and their successful return to Div1 was an amazing act of faith and determination for that whole organization. Thusfar the 2007 Blue Stars has not only proved that they belong, but that they will compete at the highest level of the activity. Bravo. I've said all that in part to say this...... I'm puzzled then as to why a Corps would have subjected themselves to all of the DCI scrutiny if they had the option of returning to Div1 and participating in some ad/hoc fashion. Why would DCI even be capable of such oversight if it really is just a "loose" affiliation of member associations?

Am I correct in assuming then that DCI has spelled out the criteria regarding number of shows/rankings/show order etc., and that this criteria applies to any/all Corps? If so, the whole discussion would seem much ado about nothing.

I have been watching the back and forth regarding this topic for awhile now. In trying to understand the implications on both sides (there seem to be two distinct factions). In looking at the number of shows, it seems Academy is participating in roughly half the number of most of the other top 12. I've read all the reasons pro and con, financial mostly on the pro side, fundamental fairness on the con. My questions along with my initial thoughts are these. On the issue of finance: If all the Div 1 corps decided to adopt this model for next year, and going forward, what impact would this have on the fan base/revenue base to the activity at large? What would the activity look like? Would this be the growth model? The survival model? On the face of it, it would seem the activity would not/could not sustain the national reach it currently has. Perhaps it cannot sustain itself long term with the current model either. If at the end of the day it is about finance, why not just have each corps compete in 12 shows of their choosing and then show up at Indy in August for Finals? On the issue of fairness: Is there another activity, sports or performance, amateur or professional, where a particpant can opt in and opt out of the activity as finance or circumstance dictate? Presumably DCI allows this, and on that basis it is okay. I'm at a loss to understand that perspective, but I'm trying. You are either in the arena, and competing in the same crucible that is tour or you are not. These are my questions/thoughts on the topic. I'm certain many of you with far more experience could help to enlighten me.

Not Ditka...........Chuck Norris.

I'm stunned that you would even ask. The only reason he is making an allowance for Gravity is to keep the Judges and fans attached to the planet.....for the time being. (btw: I'll talk to Chuck about going easy on you)

Since I began this line of commentary, perhaps I should break it down for those not yet familiar with Mr. Chuck..... His plan is quite simple: Chuck Norris....Madison Scouts.....Gravity.....it's all you'll ever really need to know from here on. For the rest of your natural lives.

Let me guess.....Roundhouse Kick??

geluf, Whilst I am certain you are imminently qualified to make such assertions, give it a rest already. They know the odds, but these kids are on fire at the moment. Besides, rumour has it that one Mr. Chuck Norris is joining tour as we speak. I think you can guess at what that might portend. Strap in everybody.