The Paw Print

Twirling is the name of the game

Twirler Emily K. is graduating and will enter high school next fall. She’s a motivated adolescent who is able to manage her time between friends, academics and a talent that has taken her across the US and abroad. She is a twirler and has been since the age of two.

“I saw a group of twirlers performing at a high school football game, and I knew that twirling was meant for me,” Emily said. “I loved the sparkly costumes and the unique baton tricks!”

Twirling in Texas is slightly different than in other parts of the country—athletes can practice with their batons outside of a gymnasium because here we have mild seasons—if we have seasons at all.

“I think that practicing outside for 13 years gives me the advantage of being able to handle the heat, sun, rain and wind when I am competing at major events!” Emily said.

She practices at least two hours a day six days a week. During the summer and holiday breaks, Emily practices three times a day every day for a total of six hours. Her baton coaches are world renowned Ava Lyn Dell and Amy Gandy.

“I would not be where I am today without their constant support and guidance.”

Emily's life is all about the sport of baton twirling. She performs across the US and in other countries. Over 120 trophies are displayed some of which include the National Baton Twirling Association (N.B.T.A.) at the state, regional and national levels. Other accomplishments include being a three time champion in the California State Twirl Competition, a two time winner at the California State Strut Competition, a Five-State Twirl Champion Trophy Winner and placing in the "Top Six" nationally for two years. In 1998 Emily traveled to Amsterdam where she earned seven 1st place medals as best soloist at the International Twirling Competition.

“My hope is to live out my dream as a Mc Neil twirler!” Emily said.