Veteran members, Eric Hegemann (left) and Jayden Hornburg (right), are looking forward to “sharing the love” as leaders of the 2019 Jersey Surf Front Ensemble.

Eric Hegemann first fell in love with DCI when his band director at Justice High School in Falls Church, VA showed DCI shows to the band during Eric’s freshman year.  Fast forward a few years and Eric is preparing for his second season playing marimba in DCI with the Jersey Surf. As section leader, Eric hopes to lead the front ensemble to achieve great things on the field. “I also hope to help create a cohesive and enjoyable pit for everyone,” he said, echoing the corps’ mantra of “Share the Love.” Eric is particularly excited about returning to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. After the season, Eric will begin his freshman year at the University of Illinois where he will study at the Geis College of Business.

Jayden Hornburg joined the Jersey Surf in 2018 and is returning for his second year playing percussion in the rhythm section. Hailing from Sykesville, MD, Jayden first came to the Jersey Surf looking for an opportunity to improve his musicianship, be a part of a high-performance organization, and travel around the country. This year, Jayden said he is “looking forward to the unique feeling of performing an engaging show and making wonderful memories with new friends.”  Just like Eric, Jayden believes that sharing the love within the pit is just as important as leading the section to strong performances on the field. “I hope to have every member of my section to finish the season feeling like they were part of a family.” Jayden graduated from Century High school in 2018.