ROCKFORD (Oct. 2, 2007) – Phantom Regiment is pleased to announce the hiring of Nick Scotella as drill writer for the 2008 season.

Scotella, 28, has been involved in the drum and bugle corps activity for more than 10 years as a marching member, instructor and now designer.

He marched with Phantom Regiment as a mellophone player from 1997 to 2001 and was a member leader of the world-renowned hornline as horn sergeant in 2000 and 2001. He was a member of the visual staff in 2005 and 2007.

“We’re very excited to have someone who has come up through our corps, and who’s doing so well, now take the reins and move us into the future,” said Dan Farrell, program director for Phantom Regiment. “Together with the great people we already have in place, I’m confident that Nick will work out very well for us.”

Scotella joins the design team of Farrell, J.D. Shaw (brass), Paul Rennick (percussion), Adam Sage (color guard), and will work closely with visual advisor Tony Hall and visual caption head Dwight Emmert. He replaces Jamey Thompson, who resigned after three years on the staff.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity, especially since I’ve been a part of the organization for so long,” Scotella said. “I believe I bring a unique experience to the job because of that fact, and I’m looking forward to continuing the corps’ great tradition.”

Currently, Scotella is the visual designer and caption head for Douglas County High School in Castle Rock, Colo. He’s also been a visual designer and leadership instructor for numerous band and winter guard programs throughout the state of Colorado. Among his drill design clients are Douglas County, Western Branch High School in Norfolk, Va., and Rampart High School in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Scotella lives in Westminster, Colo. He has a bachelor’s degree in sociology from University of Colorado.