One of the most important developments in the recent history of The Shirt Project has been the growth of the Unveiling Ceremony. What began as a small press conference in 2002 has become an afternoon of fun and entertainment for Notre Dame fans, students, faculty and staff, and families from local communities. It is even estimated that over 3,000 guests attended the Unveiling Ceremonies for The Shirt 2007 and The Shirt 2008.
Although the ceremony blossomed rather efficiently from its humble beginnings, the location of the ceremony has always been the Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore. Traditionally, the event has been held on the Friday of the annual Blue-Gold Game weekend. In 2005, during the first year of his tenure at Notre Dame, The Shirt Project was honored to have Coach Charlie Weis as the marquee speaker for a few hundred fans inside the Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore. Since then, the Unveiling Ceremony has continued to expand, incorporating more of the student body into the official kickoff of each football season.
After the design process is completed, the Unveiling Ceremony becomes the true focus of The Shirt Committee’s work. The marketing and event-planning skills of the students that serve on The Shirt Committee truly shine through in the preparation for the Unveiling Ceremony. By using proven marketing strategies and new, innovative techniques, The Shirt Committee attempts to improve upon the Unveiling Ceremonies of years past in order to draw a larger crowd. In 2009, The Shirt Committee’s goal is certainly to continue this tradition.
The Shirt Committee strives to involve as much of the Notre Dame student body as possible, which is why student groups are a crucial aspect of the Unveiling Ceremony each year. In years past, the Notre Dame Marching Band, Pom Squad, Cheerleaders, Glee Club, Bagpipe Band, Undertones, Harmonia and Irish Dance Team have performed at the event.
Yet again, entertainment will abound this year, as will free food and drink. Lou Holtz, the legendary Notre Dame football coach, will be this year’s marquee speaker. As it is the Twentieth Anniversary of The Shirt Project, the Unveiling Ceremony will be bigger than ever. This year’s event should be truly rewarding for The Shirt 2009 Committee; more importantly, The Shirt 2009 Committee wishes all those in attendance a pleasant and fun-filled afternoon.