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San Leandro, Calif. (January 20, 2009) - JanSport, the original outdoor gear Brand that equips people globally with quality backpacks, travel gear and collegiate apparel, today announced The Broderick as the Grand Prize Winner of its online Battle of the Bands competition (www.jansportbattleofthebands.com).

The Broderick were officially announced as the winners of JanSport's Battle of the Bands competition at the Halfway to Forecastle show in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday evening, January 17, 2009. As the Grand Prize winner, they will also have the opportunity to share the stage with some of the biggest names in music and play in front of thousands of fans, press and industry reps at the Forecastle Festival in Louisville, KY this July 2009.

"Winning this competition is definitely a big turning point and opportunity for us as a band," said Max Mullen, lead singer for The Broderick, after finishing their first set at the Halfway to Forecastle concert on Saturday. "We can't wait to come back to play at Forecastle in July!"

"We couldn't be more excited for The Broderick and the opportunity we've had with JanSport to partner on such an amazing event," said JK McKnight, producer of The Forecastle Festival.

Formed in Vincennes, IN in 2006, The Broderick continues to turn heads with their original blend of clever songwriting and jangly guitar work. The five musicians that form The Broderick each bring a different piece to the puzzle that shapes the band's distinct sound and style of indie rock, folk and pop. Visit www.myspace.com/thebroderickband.

For more information about JanSport's Battle of the Bands competition and its grand prize winner, log onto www.jansport.com/forecastle.

About JanSport(R) Founded in 1967, JanSport is the original outdoor gear Brand that equips people globally with quality backpacks, travel gear and collegiate apparel. Headquartered in San Leandro, California, JanSport stands for fun and discovery. The company's products are sold in retail stores throughout the world. For more information, visit www.jansport.com.

About The Forecastle Festival Forecastle is where the Midwest connects™. Founded in Louisville, KY, the annual gathering is equal parts Music, Art, and Activism. A symposium for musicians, artists, and environmentalists, Forecastle connects the progressive Midwest. The 2009 fest is expected to draw 10,000 patrons to the Louisville Waterfront part of a scenic, 60 million dollar riverfront investment which draws 1.5 million visitors a year. With national headliners and expanded line-ups, the festival will provide an unforgettable experience for all Forecastle travelers, converging in Louisville from the Midwest and beyond: http://www.forecastlefest.com.

Contacts:
Carrie Steinberg, Public Relations Coordinator
JanSport
510-614-4072
carrie_steinberg@vfc.com

Laurie Heller, Marketing Communications Manager
JanSport
510-614-4062
Laurie_heller@vfc.com