The Madison Scouts welcome Jack Pursifull as visual designer and Van Mathews as music coordinator to the 2017 design team.

“Jack brings to us extensive design experience from the world of competitive marching band and indoor color guard,” said KC Michel, Scouts program coordinator. “His groups have won numerous state championships, been BOA finalists, and been WGI champions. Jack is incredibly talented and we look forward to his design contributions.”Jack has been in the pageantry business for over 30 years as a designer, consultant, and clinician. His groups have won state championships in Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, New Mexico, Florida, and California. Some of his most notable bands include Spring H.S. (TX), Park Vista H.S. (FL), Western H.S. (IN), Ben Davis H.S. (IN), Jupiter H.S. (FL), Seminole H.S. (FL), and Northmont H.S. (OH). In the winter guard activity he has been a designer for Spring H.S. (2014 WGI Scholastic Open Champion) and The Woodlands H.S. (2004 WGI Scholastic Open Champion). In addition, Jack was the designer for the Magic of Orlando (DCI) and Connecticut Hurricanes (DCA).“One aspect where we wanted additional expertise is in the coordination of musical and visual effect as it relates to overall design,” says KC Michel. “Van brings an incredible wealth of talent in this area and we are excited to have him join the design team.”

Van is the Director of Bands at L.D. Bell High School in Hurst, Texas. During his tenure, the L.D. Bell Blue Raider Band has been a Bands of America Regional Champion, Bands of America Super Regional Champion, and Texas UIL 6A State Marching Contest Medalist. As well, they have multiple top 3 finishes at the Bands of America Grand National Championships.From 2000-2009, Mathews served as a member of the brass staff for the Blue Devils. Prior to joining the Blue Devils in 2000, Van was the brass caption coordinator and a member of the instructional staff with the Madison Scouts from 1992-1999. Van began performing in 1984 with the Suncoast Sound and aged out as a member of the Madison Scouts.Van received his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of South Carolina and his Master of Science degree from the University of Illinois. While at the University of Illinois, he completed all course work for the Ed. D. in Music Education.