Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Collegiate Twirler Spotlight - Southern Methodist University

Hello Texas Twirl Fans!

Can you believe this is the last post of October? This year, and football season, are flying by. We have one more Collegiate post before this month comes to an end. You may have seen the Insta-story take-over on Thursday when today's Spotlight twirler took us from "High on the Hilltop", to Houston, and back.

Today’s Collegiate Twirler Spotlight is on the Southern Methodist University Feature Twirler!



Southern Methodist University is located in the heart of Dallas, Texas, and is the home of the Best Dressed Band in the Land, and their centerpiece, “The Doll”. The position of the SMU Feature Twirler, known as “the Doll”, has been held by a long history of amazing Texas twirlers. Many State, Regional, and National titles have come home to SMU. Continuing the legacy of excellence is the current “Doll”, Rachel Hutchinson!

We were very interested in why SMU calls their Feature Twirler “The Doll”, so Rachel gave us a little overview of the position. “One of the historic nicknames of the band is “96 Guys and a Doll,” which is where the Doll title for the Feature Twirler originated. In the pregame show, the Twirler and Drum Major traditionally do a duet. In the halftime show, the role of the feature twirler is to be a focal point for the show, complementing the band movements and musical selection. The finale of halftime is called “Waring,” where the band stretches the last note of music to match the height the twirler’s high toss.”


Making the decision of where to go to college was an easy one for Rachel. “To reach my career goal, I was looking for a school that could provide a quality education in both STEM and Pre-law, which SMU is known for. I wanted to stay in Texas and graduate without debt. I got to the point in my college search where I would always come back to SMU, and when my scholarships (academic and twirling) came through, my college choice was undoubtedly SMU.”

While the choice was obviously SMU academically, for her freshman year of College, the Feature Twirler position was already filled, and when a twirler is named “The Doll”, they are awarded their spot for a set amount of time without re-auditioning. For example, Rachel will hold the position through her Senior year. This meant she as she was entering college she would have to wait a year as the Freshman Twirler. “For the freshman twirler position, the band director chose the spot based on video submissions. That position was designed to expose the twirler to the band but was a non-performance role. With the opportunity to audition for the Feature Twirler position opening her sophomore year, this required a live performance. Preparation-wise, the audition process was the biggest difference. It was also great preparation for field movements and feature skills.”

We know all that hard work was totally worth it in the end. “Since becoming the Feature Twirler, the greatest feeling is that it is rewarding and motivating to be able to share what I have been working on and contribute to school spirit.”

Now that we have learned a little more about her journey, let’s learn more about Rachel!

Rachel Hutchinson
Competition Level: Advanced

Rachel is a Sophomore Majoring in Engineering and Mathematics and Minoring in Pre-Law, from Houston, Texas. At SMU she is also in the Society of Professional Engineers and Executive Board. She has been twirling for ten years and is currently working with Ashley Moss. The competition title she is the proudest of winning is the 2018 Miss Majorette of the Southwest and Southwest Regional Rhythmic Champion. She was also honored to be a World Open Strut Finalist at AYOP. Her favorite competition trick is a double leg hold spin and her favorite field tricks are leap walkovers and two baton walkover combos. “Anything walkover!” In baton twirling she has been most inspired by Shaelynn Albretch. After she graduates from Undergrad, she hopes to attend Law School. “I want to work in International Law, specifically globally-sensitive engineering developments (biological weaponry, nuclear power, contamination).”

Fun Facts!

Favorite TV Shows – “The Good Place” and “Mindhunters”
Favorite Music – “Anything the SMU Band Plays!”
Favorite Quote – “When life gives you more than you bargained for, you’re usually glad you got it!”

When she is not twirling, she loves to…
“Spend time with friends.”

Something people might not know about her is…
“I love the outdoors, hiking, and going to the beach.”

Most memorable advice from her Coach… 
“Don’t drop and have fun!”

Funniest thing that has happened to her in twirling….
“Just last week I took a baton to the face in rehearsal, which was already such a clumsy sight! The best part is that it resulted in a huge busted lip for band picture day!”

Most fun experience she gets to have as a twirler….
“Camps! Seeing new styles, skills, and nuances always helps me grow. I find that learning is fresh and exciting… and there’s no competition at camp!”


The SMU Marching Band, known as the Best Dressed Band in the Land, is an amazing family away from home for its members. They get to be a part of so many SMU traditions, including Rachel’s favorite tradition, “Boulevarding.” “The boulevard is central to campus and looks out to Dallas Hall. Students and alumni dress in Sunday best and tailgate. Spirit, Band, and the mascot, Peruna the Stallion, parade football players into the stadium.”

With spending so much time together, the BDBITL has many of its own inside jokes and stories. One of their favorites is when they get to use the term HUBBA! “Anytime the band is celebrating a success, good news, or a person, we chant “hubba hubba hubba.” It is best used when an alumnus speaks, because the tradition has gone back to the very beginning of Mustang Band history.”

Over the last ten years of twirling, Rachel has learned many lessons, but considers inclusivity to be one of the most important. “Twirling is highly competitive, and often focused on individual performance. If we step back from the whirlwind, these are the people who share our values and goals. My twirling friends have been some of my strongest friendships because when you are practicing everyday all summer, you get close. My experiences have made me value inclusivity and made me conscious of including others.”

Finally, we asked Rachel what advice she would give to any twirlers wanting to one day twirl on a Collegiate Field, and she told us, “Keep good posture and believe in yourself, body language can make or break your performance.”

We want to say thank you to Rachel and we wish her an amazing rest of the season. Pony Up!


We hope you have enjoyed this blog post. We are always looking for great new stories about Texas twirlers. Do you have an idea or some information we could use to help highlight our sport? Contact us at texastwirlcontact@gmail.com and we would love to hear more about it.

Monday, October 28, 2019

Camp Calendar Series - 2019 Dallas Twirling Clinic!

Hello Texas Twirl Fans!

With only a couple weeks left of football season, it is time to start getting those competition routines ready! Today for our Camp Calendar Series we have the 2019 Dallas Twirling Clinic!


DEADLINE IS THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST!
Registration is $80.00 per attendee. Payment can be made via Cashier’s Check or Money Order sent to Diamond Productions, PO Box 140924, Dallas, TX 75214-0924. Click here to open the registration form and liability waiver to mail in with payment. Need more information? Please contact Miss Shirley at 214-364-9272 or email texastouchofclass@gmail.com.

Who? What? When? Where? Why?
Who: Camp Directors Shirley Payne and Sheila Payne Rigelsky
What: 2019 Dallas Twirling Clinic
When: Saturday, November 9, 2019 from 9am to 1 pm
Where: Ridgewood/Belcher Recreation Center, 6818 Fisher Dr, Dallas, TX 75214


Why: Join the amazing twirlers from Texas Touch of Class at their annual Twirling Clinic! With amazing instructors, twirlers of all levels have a chance to learn some new material and perfect their skills as they prepare for the upcoming competition season.

Clinic Instructors:
This event has four awesome instructors including
* Former Mizzou Feature Twirler and AYOP WOW Award Winner, Halie Hart
* Multi-Grand National Men’s USTA & NBTA Champion and World Gold Medalist, Michael Lopez
* Top 6 USTA Men’s National Soloist and TJC & Fullerton Feature Twirler, Emmanuel Espinoza
* Award winning competitive gymnast and Level 6 USA Gymnastics Judge, Wendy Davidson


Class Sessions:
Each attendee will have the opportunity to learn rolls, feature tricks, and acrobatic elements used in twirling. Novice twirlers will learn new twirling technique tricks, and beginner-advanced twirlers will do multi-baton. 

Want to attend this event?
To register, please download the registration form and liability waiver and mail it in with your $80.00 camp fee before Friday, November 1st. You can also contact Miss Shirley at 214-364-9272 or email texastouchofclass@gmail.com with any questions!


We hope you have enjoyed this blog post. We are always looking for great new stories about Texas twirlers. Do you have an idea or some information we could use to help highlight our sport? Contact us at texastwirlcontact@gmail.com and we would love to hear more about it.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Contest Calendar Series - USTA Twirl Clinic & Compulsory Meet

Hello Texas Twirl Fans!

What a crazy change in the weather. We hope everyone is enjoying the cooler temperatures today. We are finally here at the last weekend of October. UIL Area Weekend for many twirlers around the State with their marching bands. After this weekend, many twirlers will turn their focus from the field to the competition floor, and this upcoming Clinic is the perfect way to make that transition.

Today our Contest/Camp Calendar Series is on the USTA Twirling Clinic & Compulsory Meet!




Registration is $35.00 if you pre-register or $40.00 at the door!
Click here visit the online registration form or check out the TSTC Twirling Clinic & Compulsory Meet Flyer for details and clinician bios. Need more information? Please contact Erica Osgood at (409) 853-0967 or email her at insideouttwirl@gmail.com.

Who? What? When? Where? Why?
Who: Organized by the USTA Texas State Twirling Council (TSTC)
What: November 2019 TSTC Twirling Clinic & USTA Compulsory Meet
When: Saturday, November 2. Doors open at 8:30 am for Clinic. Compulsory Evals start at 1:00 pm.
Where: Hillcrest Baptist Church, 3324 Park Drive, Nederland, Texas 77627
Why: This is a great way to kick off your season for those working on their USTA Compulsories. Enjoy a clinic with some great instructors before working to achieve the next level on your USTA Compulsories all in the same day.

Clinicians:


This event has four awesome instructors including
  • USTA Collegiate National Champion and University of Oklahoma Feature Twirler, Emily Perkins
  • Multi-Grand National Men’s USTA & NBTA Champion and World Gold Medalist, Michael Lopez
  • Former University of Houston Feature Twirler and TSTC Board Member, Morgan Bull
  • Former Round Rock High School Feature Twirler and TSTC Board Member, McKenzie Gomez

Class Sessions:
Class sessions for this event include Exchanges & Fun Tricks, Compulsories, Movement Technique, All Levels of 2 & 3 Baton, All Levels of contact material and rolls, and All Levels of Strut (NBTA/USTA).

Private Lessons with Emily Perkins, Michael Lopez, and Morgan Bull are also available for $50.00/hour. Contact Erica to schedule.

Want to attend this event? 
PRE-REGISTER through the online Google form! Cost is $35 with pre-registration and $40.00 at the door. Fee includes a sandwich lunch. Compulsory meet is sanctioned with USTA. Cost is $10 per level tested, max two levels.


We hope you have enjoyed this blog post. We are always looking for great new stories about Texas twirlers. Do you have an idea or some information we could use to help highlight our sport? Contact us at texastwirlcontact@gmail.com and we would love to hear more about it.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Collegiate Twirler Spotlight - Sam Houston State University

Hello Texas Twirl Fans!

The countdown is on! We are only a little over a week away from November, which means we are only 1.5 weeks away from the USTA Twirling Clinic and Compulsory Meet in Nederland, Texas, 2.5 weeks from the UT Twirler Day & Clinic, a month from the first Contest of the Season! Are you ready?

On Saturday you might have had a chance to see this week’s Feature Twirlers on our Instagram Story Takeover (@twirlingiscatchingtx). We got to see them twirl on and off the field while looking amazing rocking the orange and blue!

Today’s Collegiate Twirler Spotlight is the Sam Houston State University Feature Twirlers!


Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, is the home of the Bearkats, and these two awesome Twirlers. Coached by Kelly McCormick, the SHSU Feature Twirlers Sara Wleczyk and Kasey Strouse, are a centerpiece on the field with the Famous Bearkat Marching Band (BMB).

We asked Sara and Kasey what brought them to SHSU, and they both said that family was a key factor in their decisions, but that they also felt like it was home. Sara told us, “When I toured the university with my mom and aunt, who both attended SHSU, I instantly felt comfortable with the campus. SHSU is not a big campus, but it’s just the perfect size for me, so it felt like home.” Kasey also felt the family connection. “For generations my family has attended and graduated from SHSU and I wanted to continue that tradition”.


With choosing to follow in the footsteps of their family members attending SHSU, we knew the school had to be rich in traditions, so we wanted to know which ones were their favorites. Kasey told us she just loves Fire Fest! “It is a huge bonfire and all SHSU Student come out to cheer on our team!” Sara’s favorite tradition has to do with how the spirit community comes together before each football game. “Twirling with my team members outside Bower’s Stadium with the Bearkat Marching Band, SHSU Cheerleaders, and the SHSU Orange Pride Dance Team is amazing.  This is an awesome opportunity to be up close with our fans and get everyone in the spirit right before the football game.”

As a part of the SHSU Spirit Community, they spend a lot of time with the BMB (Bearkat Marching Band) at practices and events. All this time lends to some great traditions of their own. Sara told us that how they end each practice is something she will always enjoy. “During dismissal for practice, we all gather around the drum major podium listening to the announcements. Afterwards, the drum major gives a cue to the drum line to start a cadence. This signals everyone to shout the Bearkat Marching Band motto ‘Passion, Family, Excellence, BMB is in the house!’ This also ends practice on a good note!” Kasey is also a big fan of all the chants the band has. “My favorite is when the game is close to the end someone starts a chant of ‘Get on the bus’ and someone answers with ‘We wanna go home’.”

Now that we have learned about experiences at SHSU, let’s learn more about these twirlers!

Sara Wleczyk
Competition Level: Intermediate

Sara is a Senior from West Columbia, Texas, Majoring in Human Resource Management. At SHSU she is a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority and Sigma Alpha Pi -The National Society of Leadership and Success. She has been twirling for 18 years and is currently coached by Kelley McCormick and Heather Holland Mikel but sends special thanks to former coaches Jana Reid and Jenna Reid Navarro. The title she is the proudest of winning was the Miss Twirl Mania X-Strut. Her favorite competition trick is a toss reverse illusion, and her favorite field trick is a toss forward roll or any two baton trick. In baton twirling she has been most inspired by several twirlers including Former UH Feature Twirler Heather Holland, and Former UGA and FSU Feature Twirler, Karissa Wimberley. After College she plans to eventually attend graduate school, but her immediate goal is to become employed in a hospital or petrol chemical work environment utilizing her HR background to manage insurance benefits or company employee policies.

Kasey Strouse
Competition Level: Intermediate

Kasey is a Junior from Needville, Texas, Majoring in Multiplatform Journalism and Minoring in Political Science. At SHSU she is the secretary, historian, and treasurer of NSMA (National Sports Media Association for SHSU), a Journalist for the Houstonian Newspaper, member of SPJ (Society of Professional Journalists), and a member of University Heights ministry. She has been twirling for 16 years and works with coaches Kelly McCormick and Cheyanne Forshee. Her favorite competition trick is a toss leap and her favorite field trick is a toss cartwheel. In baton twirling, she has been most inspired by former SHSU Feature Twirler, Kayla Strouse. After College she hopes to become a professional journalist with a major newspaper.





Fun Facts!
Favorite Color – Pink (Sara), Blush (Kasey)
Favorite Movie – “Battleship” (Sara), “The Notebook” (Kasey)
Favorite Music – Country (Sara), Indie Pop (Kasey)
Favorite Food – Mexican Food (Sara)

Favorite Quote…
  • Sara – In the words of Savvy Shields, “If it is in your destiny, it will be!”
Life Motto…
  • Sara – “Be yourself, because an original is worth more than a copy!”
  • Kasey – “Prayer without work is dead”. We have to do our part to receive God’s greatest gifts. 
Most Memorable Advice from their Coach…
  • Sara – “Leave it all on the floor at competitions. Walk away knowing that you've done your best!”
  • Kasey – “Make it big, make it flashy, and have fun while you do it.”


When they are not twirling, they love to…
  • Sara – “Spend time outdoors with my German Shepherd dog, Jethro, and my Cairn Terrier, Abby; and just taking time out with my family and friends. Also, I have a passion for cooking one of my many Pinterest recipes which I have perfected with the help of my dad.”
  • Kasey – “Work on my next story for the Houstonian”. 
Something you might not know about them is…
  • Sara – “I’m involved with our family’s cattle business. You may see me putting out hay during the winter months or bottling feeding a newborn calf.  I take every opportunity to help when I can. It’s the type of work I truly enjoy doing.”
  • Kasey – “I can change a tire”. 
Favorite moment as a baton twirler…
  • Sara – “Honestly, making it as a Sam Houston State Feature Twirler because all of my hard work and determination had finally paid off.”
  • Kasey – “Making Feature Twirler at SHSU! Just knowing all my hard work paid off.”


During the many hours these twirlers spend practicing and performing, they have had their fair share of funny moments. We asked them what they consider to be the funniest thing that has happened to them with a baton. Sara told us about a time her baton and her had a pretty bad run in. “A rather dramatic experience was when I did a toss illusion at a high school football game. The baton landed on my nose with a loud thump. Literally, I thought I broke my nose, but I kept on twirling through the pain with tears in my eyes. Turns out, I just had a really bad bruise the next day under my eye and a swollen nose.” Kasey’s funny experience had more with trying to share baton with someone special in her life. “Attempting to teach my boyfriend how to twirl was hilarious. He always said, 'it can’t be that hard'. He no longer feels that way!”

Baton twirling teaches many different skills, both those related to twirling and those applicable to real life. We wanted to know what skill these ladies felt was the most important. Kasey told us that it was learning that the work is worth it. “Keep pushing through the hard parts of life because there is always a much bigger reward for hard work.” Sara has gained a lot of confidence from her years of performing. “Baton twirling has made me more confident in myself as a person and it has taught me valuable people skills.”

Finally, we asked these ladies what advice they would pass along to a future Feature Twirler. Kasey said to love what you do. “Enjoy every last second of it. Time flies and you perform better when you are having fun!” Sara passed along some advice from one of the greats. “If you don’t succeed the first time, get back in the gym or studio. As Adaline Bebo said, ‘School auditions are all more about heart and less about talent than you might expect!! When you’re performing for your school, the crowd is more entertained by cool tricks done well and showmanship rather than big, hard tricks they don’t understand.’ That, and always believe in yourself."

We want to send a big thank you to Sara and Kasey and wish them a great rest of their season. Go Bearkats!


We hope you have enjoyed this blog post. We are always looking for great new stories about Texas twirlers. Do you have an idea or some information we could use to help highlight our sport? Contact us at texastwirlcontact@gmail.com and we would love to hear more about it.

Sunday, October 20, 2019

University of Texas Twirler Day & Clinic 2019

Hello Texas Twirl Fans!

Today we have some super fun news to announce. The University of Texas is having their second UT Twirler Day & Twirl Clinic, and you still have time to sign up! This will be a fantastic experience for twirlers and we are excited to see this event happening again this year. The deadline is Friday, October 25th, so don't miss it!

The event comes in two parts: (1) The Saturday Twirler Day and (2) The Sunday Twirler Clinic


University of Texas Twirler Day - Saturday, November 9th

On Saturday, November 9th, a select group of high school twirlers will experience a day in the life of the UT Feature Twirler. You’ll spend the entire game day with UT Feature Twirler Caroline Carothers and the Longhorn Band—attending morning rehearsal, eating the pregame meal, marching to the stadium in front of Big Bertha, watching the LMB perform Pre-Game and Halftime, and cheering the Longhorns to victory.

***Please note due to the limited nature of this activity, only 15 twirlers will be able to participate. Preference will be given to high school juniors and seniors.*** 



If you would like to be considered to be one of the 15 select twirlers to participate in the Twirler Day, please fill out the UT Twirler Day Registration Form. If you are one of the 15 selected, you will be contacted by the organizers with information on the game day schedule.



University of Texas Twirler Clinic - Sunday, November 10th

On Sunday, November 10th, twirlers ages 6th grade and up are invited to join us for our Twirler Day Clinic. Taught by current and former University of Texas Feature Twirlers, classes will focus on skills like field tricks, multiple baton, performance and showmanship - all the tools you need to succeed as a school twirler at any level. The clinic will conclude with a showcase of the skills you’ve learned and a photo & autograph session with UT Feature Twirler Caroline Carothers! Parents, coaches, and twirlers are invited to stay after the clinic for a 20 minute info session on the Texas Feature Twirler audition process.


The Clinic will include a Twirler Clinic Shirts as well as instruction from current University of Texas Feature Twirler Caroline Carothers, and Alumni Twirlers Ashley Dolan, Alexa Bourdage, Whitney Coons, Dr. Coral Noonan-Terry, and Lynn Dell Harrell. Sessions for the 2019 Clinic will include: Travel Tricks, Spectacular Tricks, Multiple Baton, Dance Twirl, Rolls, Showmanship, and a new Interview class offered with Caroline Carothers, who was also the 2016 Miss Texas.

Cost for this amazing clinic is only $45.00! To register, please complete the UT Twirler Day & Clinic Registration and Venmo the $45 registration fee to @UTTwirlerDay. Registration & fee must be received by October 25 to guarantee a Twirler Day t-shirt.

If you have any questions about this event, we recommend you visit the Facebook Event Page and message the organizers for the quickest response. If you do not have Facebook, you can email Alexa at asbourdage@gmail.com or Whitney at whitney.coons@gmail.com. Hook em Horns!


We hope you have enjoyed this blog post. We are always looking for great new stories about Texas twirlers. Do you have an idea or some information we could use to help highlight our sport? Contact us at texastwirlcontact@gmail.com and we would love to hear more about it.

Friday, October 18, 2019

Friday Night Lights Feature - Flour Bluff High School Twirlers

Hello Texas Twirl Fans!

Another week of those Friday Night Lights has come and gone, and UIL Region Marching Weekend is here! We want to wish good luck to all our Texas Twirlers performing with their marching bands tomorrow, whether you are playing an instrument, spinning with the guard, or twirling your baton.

Each season this blog likes to get to know our awesome Texas twirlers a little better by learning about them and their experiences. We will be meeting a new High School twirler each Friday and discovering more about our Texas Collegians during the week. Make sure to follow us at facebook.com/twirlingiscatchingtx or on Instagram @twirlingiscatchingtx for live content and Insta-story take overs by some of your favorites.

This week’s Friday Night Lights Feature is the Flour Bluff High School Twirlers!



Flour Bluff High School in Corpus Christi is the home of the Hornets, and a history of wonderful Feature Twirlers. Being right next to the Nancy Eisenhauer School of Baton Twirling, many Stingerettes have continued their twirling into High School with the Hornet Marching Band. That includes the four awesome twirlers we are meeting today… Cayla Watson, Sophie Carnes, Stephanie Garza, and Megan Garcia!

With so many great twirlers in Corpus Christi, we know the audition process is very important. We asked them how that all works, and they told us, “the audition process is very simple. The directors post a sign-up sheet and have tryouts in our band hall a few weeks later. Our 5 band directors plus an anonymous person judges the tryouts.”


 As a part of the Hornet Marching Band, these twirlers get to have lots of fun experiences. They tell us that their favorite Flour Bluff tradition is when the band plays the school song at the beginning and end of every game. They also love those Friday Night Lights. “Friday night games are so awesome! We have a great time performing for the audience and supporting the football team!” While FNLs are the best, they said the moment they will never forget from this year was their first pep-rally performance. “It was so much fun!”

They also have their fair share of funny times together. One such situation was when they had to do a run through of their entire show at practice without batons. Their guard coach called it “air baton”. The band has their own hilarious jokes to share, and the twirlers told us all about the importance of ‘Shants.’ “One of our trumpet players always wears basketball shorts over his jeans and calls them shants. It all started when he didn’t know if we had indoor or outdoor rehearsal, so he decided to dress for both.”

Now that we have learned more about twirling at FBHS, let’s learn more about the twirlers!

Cayla Watson, Senior
Competition Level: Advanced

Cayla has been twirling for 15 years and works with coaches Keely Davis, Michael Lopez, and Nancy Eisenhauer. The title that she is the proudest of winning was the Advanced Senior State Solo Champion. Her favorite field trick is a toss front walkover. In baton twirling, she has been most inspired by Alyssa Beaupré. After High School she would like to attend a university and represent the school as a feature twirler while majoring in Civil Engineering. 

Sophie Carnes, Senior
Competition Level: Intermediate

Sophie has been twirling for 9 years and is coached by Kathy O’Leal. The title she is the proudest of winning was three baton, which is also her favorite field trick. In baton twirling, she has been most inspired by Savannah Miller. After High School she hopes to go to college and major in psychology.




Stephanie Garza, Junior
Competition Level: Intermediate

Stephanie has been twirling for 8 years with coaches Nancy Eisenhauer and Kim Berger. The title she is the proudest of winning was the 2018 Junior Beginner Southwest Regional Pageant. Her favorite field trick is an exchange that they do together. “We had this really cool two baton exchange that we learned during summer band and doing it blows my mind every time!” In Baton twirling, she has been most inspired by Kaylynn Lambert. After High School she hopes to become a writer and possibly a collegiate twirler. 

Megan Garcia, Freshman
Competition Level: Advanced

Megan has been twirling for 11 years and works with coach Keely Davis. The competition title she is the proudest of winning was the 2016 Southwest Regional pageant. Her favorite field trick is a toss walkover. In baton twirling, she has been most inspired by Lauren Castellanos. After High School she hopes to go to Baylor University.




Fun Facts!
Favorite Color – “I like them all!” (Cayla), Teal (Sophie), Yellow & Pink (Stephanie), Purple (Megan)

Favorite Movie – “Soul Surfer" (Cayla), “10 Things I Hate About You” (Sophie), “Beauty and the Beast” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (Stephanie), “Bride Wars” (Megan)

Favorite Music – “I listen to a lot of music, but currently my favorite song is ‘Put your head on my shoulder’ by Paul Anka” (Cayla)

Favorite Book – “The Great Gatsby” (Stephanie)

Favorite Quote…
  • Cayla “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
  • Sophie – “A healthy life is a happy life”
  • Stephanie – “When you feel like nothing, God is up to something”
  • Megan – “This is your world. You are the creator. Find freedom on this canvas. Believe that you can do it, ‘Cuz you can do it. You can do it.” – Bob Ross



When they are not twirling, they love to… 
  • Cayla – “Cook! I enjoy baking for my friends and family.”
  • Sophie – “Hang out with my friends.”
  • Stephanie – “Write and paint!”
  • Megan – “Bake.”
Something people might not know about them is…
  • Cayla – “I currently attend TAMU-CC! The only class I take at Flour Bluff is Band. I will graduate high school with over 40 college hours!”
  • Sophie – “I am a very picky eater.”
  • Stephanie – “I am a huge bookworm!”
  • Megan – “I’m obsessed with Bob Ross!”
Most memorable advice from their coach…
  • Cayla – “Go out there and have fun!”
  • Sophie – “Don’t worry about the competition. Just go out there and have fun twirling. Don’t worry about winning or losing, just have fun and show them what you can do.”
  • Stephanie – “If you don’t practice like you perform, then your practice didn’t mean a thing.”
  • Megan – "Do it no matter what, because if you don’t, you’ll never know what you’re capable of.”


We asked these ladies what they feel the number one skill they have learned from baton twirling is and they told us it was confidence. “Being a feature twirler comes with a lot of performances in front of big crowds that puts you out of your comfort zone but helps you gain so much confidence through time!”

Two of the FBHS twirlers are seniors this year, and after several years of representing their school, we wanted to know what they will miss the most when they graduate. “Twirling with each other. We are so close because we’ve twirler together for several years at the studio but practicing everyday doing something you love is unforgettable.”

Finally, we wrapped up our interview by asking the Twirlers what advice they would pass along to any twirlers wanting to one day twirl for their High School, and they kept it concise… “Don’t ever give up!”

We want to wish these four fantastic twirlers a great rest of their football season! Go Hornets!


We hope you have enjoyed this blog post. We are always looking for great new stories about Texas twirlers. Do you have an idea or some information we could use to help highlight our sport? Contact us at texastwirlcontact@gmail.com and we would love to hear more about it.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Collegiate Twirler Spotlight - University of Houston

Hello Texas Twirl Fans!

Make sure to get your entries in for the 2019 Fall Twirling Festival! Check out the Contest Calendar Series post to learn more about this event. The deadline is Monday, October 21st, and you will not want to miss it!

Last Saturday, if you were following us on Instagram (@twirlingiscatchingtx), you got to see the two awesome twirlers from today’s spotlight, as well as many other great twirlers from around Texas, as they all got the chance to twirl on the field at TDECU Stadium. It was so fun to join them through the day, and even better to watch all the Twirler Day participants experience a Cougar Game!

Today’s Collegiate Twirler Spotlight is on the University of Houston Feature Twirlers!


The University of Houston is the home of the Spirit of Houston Marching Band and the UH Feature Twirlers! The UH Feature Twirlers, led by Coach Jennifer Garrison, are "an elite Team of Baton Twirling Soloists who are integral contributors to the entertainment value of the Spirit of Houston Marching Band". These ladies can be seen rocking it on the field at the TDECU Stadium in Houston. This University has a long-standing reputation for having some great twirlers, and the 2019-202 Feature Twirlers, Jassandra Holbert and Abby Neuman, have done a wonderful job maintaining this tradition for the past few years.

Both Jassandra and Abby came to UH their freshman years and have been returning to the TDECU Stadium each season to continue to represent their University. Being their fourth and third seasons, respectively, we wanted to know what brought them to UH in the first place, and what keeps them here. Jassandra told us that she chose UH for many reasons, including the twirling opportunities. “I chose UH because of the inclusion community, school spirit, amazing school of communications, being in the middle of the 4th largest city, the fantastic performance opportunities through the Spirit of Houston, and the wonderful twirling coach.” Abby had similar reasons, finding the school to be a great mix of education and twirling. “I chose UH because of the opportunities Houston offers as a top medical and research city, the fabulous perks of twirling for the Spirit of Houston, and, after learning more about the school, I felt at home when I visited the campus.”


We asked them what advice they had for High School twirlers hoping to find their home in higher education. Abby told us that she advises keeping an open mind. “Apply everywhere and have an open mind for each school. So many schools are overlooked because they don’t have as big of a reputation, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a great school”.  Jassandra agreed. “Think outside your comfort zone and the Power 5 schools! UH was not on my radar until the very last minute, but it has been the best decision for me! Non-Power 5 universities still have amazing football schools, great performance opportunities, school spirit, and great academics. Find the school that is right for you!”

There have been many moments at the University of Houston where these twirlers get to enjoy the traditions and inside jokes. Jassandra says her favorite tradition is wearing red on Fridays to show school spirit, and Abby loves the school wide practice of rubbing the paws of the Cougar statues around campus for good luck. They also never get tired of the inside jokes they develop together and as a part of the Spirit of Houston. Abby’s favorite inside joke is “Cam’s going to sing us a song! *clap*” and Jassandra's is “Shasta Sugar, Cougar Kiss”. While those don't make a lot of sense to us, we know it is a part of what they love about the UH and the Spirit of Houston Community!

Now that we have learned more about what brought the ladies to UH, let’s learn more about them!

Jassandra Holbert
Competition Level: Advanced/Collegiate
Jassandra is a Senior Organizational & Corporate Communications Major and History Minor from San Diego, California. At UH she is a member of the Sigma Kappa sorority and Residential Advisor at Cougar Place Residence Hall. She has been twirling for 14 years and is coached by Juli Gage and Jennifer Zuber-Garrison. The twirling title she is the proudest of winning was the Intermediate California State X-Strut and Two Baton events. Her favorite competition trick is a double illusion or two baton high low two spin, and her favorite field trick is a toss double leap, catch leap or toss high kick illusion. In baton twirling she has been most inspired by Merri Beth Cox. After College, she hopes to continue her work with Teach for America and help gain equal education for all children in the USA.

Abby Neuman
Competition Level: Advanced
Abby is a Junior Psychology Major and Religious Studies Minor from Cibolo, Texas. At U of H she is a member of the Tree of Life Bible Study and is also a Resident Advisor at Cougar Place Residence Hall. She has been twirling for 13 years as a member of the Twirling Sweet Sensations and is coached by Michele Pangrac, Mary Ann Srulowitz, and Jennifer Zuber-Garrison. The twirling title she is the proudest of winning was the 2016 Intermediate Senior Texas State Pageant. Her favorite competition trick is a horizontal toss left behind back, one spin to the right, catch right hand in to the splits, and her favorite field trick is a toss, leap, forward roll. In baton twirling she has been most inspired by Rachel Reiss. After College, she hopes to do Neuroscience research on diseases and disorders in the brain.



Fun Facts!
Favorite Color – White or Light Pink (Jassandra), Purple (Abby)

Favorite Movie – Mama Mia, “Best Sing-along ever!” (Jassandra), The Greatest Showman and La La Land, “What better songs to sing to?” (Abby)

Favorite Songs – “Make it sweet” by Old Dominion, “Put Your Records On” by Corinne Bailey Ray, or “Stay with You” by John Legend (Jassandra), “Simple” by Florida Georgia Line (Abby)

Favorite Quote...
  • Jassandra – “A girl should be two things: Who and What she wants!”
  • Abby – “Never give up!”
Favorite thing to do on the UH campus...
  • Jassandra – “When its not too hot I love to sit on a bench by the fountains and listen to my favorite songs”
  • Abby – “I love to sit by the Cullen Family Plaza Fountains, sip iced coffee, and read a book…. Usually it’s a textbook, but it is still relaxing”
Favorite thing to do off campus in Houston…
  • Jassandra – “Find the best coffee shops in Houston! I love all types of coffee!”
  • Abby – “Explore the infinite amounts of amazing restaurants Houston has!”
When they are not twirling, they love to…
  • Jassandra – “Drink Coffee and go hiking. I love being outdoors!”
  • Abby – “I think all college students can understand this one… Sleep!”
Something people might not know about them is…
  • Jassandra – “I grew up always being outdoors! I love going to the beach, hiking, camping, or even just going on relaxing walks for no reason! I try to be outside as much as possible!”
  • Abby – “I have four brothers so when I’m not in a sparkly costume, I’m destroying them in video games or climbing trees with them.”



Best Twirling Advice from their Private Lesson coaches…
  • Jassandra – “No matter how bad a routine it was, leave like it was a no drop.”
  • Abby – “Follow through! You are not done with the trick until you’ve caught the baton on your toes!”
Best Twirling Advice from their UH Twirling coach…
  • Jassandra – “Don’t be afraid of the big tricks! Go out there and try everything! Leave it all on the field.”
  • Abby – “Perform so big that the person at the top of the stadium sees YOU amidst the 300 other people on the field.”
Favorite thing about twirling…
  • Jassandra – “Finding such an amazing community to help me grow in to the person I have become, including my private lesson coach Julie Gage. She has become my second mom and a mentor to me. I would not be where I am today without her love, patience, and guidance.”
  • Abby – “I love seeing my friends succeed in school and competition twirling. It inspires me to work harder and it makes me thankful for my superstar friends."

Twirling at UH has given these twirlers many memorable experiences. Abby told us the one that will always stay with her was twirling in the 2017 Astros World Champions Parade. “It was the most exhilarating, wild, and energetic performance I have ever twirled for. Seeing an entire city come together, just a couple months after being devastated by Hurricane Harvey, for a celebration everyone could participate in, was incredibly memorable”. Jassandra has also enjoyed the many opportunities. “There are way too many awesome moments to name just one! I am so grateful and in awe of all the amazing performances that I have been able to do since being at UH. However, one of the highlights will always be my freshman year in 2016 against OU in NRG and beating the Sooners. Never underestimate the Cougars!”


Along with the many amazing experiences, they have also had plenty of fun. We asked them what was the funniest thing they have done while twirling at UH. Jassandra told us about a time when they had to do some quick thinking. “Last year during a halftime performance, I accidentally put down 2 batons, instead of one, on the sidelines and leapt to my next spot. Coach Jennifer had to throw it to me from the sidelines! My family said I played it off very well!” Abby finds her funny moments often have to do with her baton liking her face a little too much. “In January my baton landed on my forehead while doing a high toss double illusion and my baton broke in half! Then, recently, while doing a 4 baton trick, a baton landed on my nose and I had to get stiches! It wasn’t funny in the moment, but it definitely is now!”

Baton twirling has taught these twirlers so much about themselves, and has given them many skills besides just twirling a baton. We asked them what they consider to be the best life skill they have developed through their years of training. Abby told us that her key take away has been balance. “Both mentally and physical, because it has taught me how to juggle being a student, working, community involvement, competitive twirling, and collegiate twirling. All of these skills are transferable to the real world.” While Jassandra agrees that balance is important, she has really grown in the area of time management. “I am an extremely busy person, but I love being as busy as I am! It keeps me motivated, but with growing up and having to practice every day, on top of everything else, twirling taught me the importance of using my time wisely! I will always be thankful for twirling teaching me to “suck it up” (along with my mom), and get everything done!”

Finally, we asked these ladies for their last comments on attending the University of Houston. Jassandra said, “I am so grateful for the University of Houston and the Houston Twirling program for pushing me out of my comfort zone, giving me a great support system, and a second family." Abby appreciates the experiences the University has given her. “Moving from a small town to a big city has been one of the scariest things I’ve done, but I am so thankful for the experiences and opportunities the 4th largest city in the country has to offer!”

We want to thank Jassandra and Abby for all the great advice, and we loved learning more about UH. Good luck on the rest of the season for these UH twirlers, and Go Coogs!


We hope you have enjoyed this blog post. We are always looking for great new stories about Texas twirlers. Do you have an idea or some information we could use to help highlight our sport? Contact us at texastwirlcontact@gmail.com and we would love to hear more about it.

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Contest Calendar Series - 2019 Fall Twirling Festival

Hello Texas Twirl Fans!

You know competition season is here when we are within a week of the first contest entry deadline. We are currently only thirty eight days away from the first contest of the season! Wow! Make sure you have www.texastwirl.com/contests.html bookmarked on your phone or computer so that you always know where to find the upcoming contest calendar and links to all the entry forms as they become available.

Today we have our first Contest Calendar Series of the new season, the 2019 Fall Twirling Festival!


Please note that the deadline for this competition is Monday, October 21st!
You must have your entries submitted online or postmarked by this date. Click here to download the entry form or you can visit the super easy to use Online Registration site. For more information, please contact the contest director at michele.pangrac@gmail.com.

Who? What? When? Where? Why?
Who: Contest Director Michele Pangrac
What: 2019 Fall Twirling Festival
When: Saturday, November 23, 2019. Facility opens at 8:00 am. Contest begins at 8:30 am.
Where: Antioch Community Sports Complex. 1001 N. Walters, San Antonio, TX 78202.


Why: This is a great contest to jump start the competitive twirling season and put new routines and tricks on the floor! Casual atmosphere, cozy facility with great floors, and ceiling height, makes for a wonderful event!

CONTEST HASHTAG: #falltwirlfest2019
For this event we would love to see our Texas twirlers utilize the hashtag #falltwirlfest2019 when posting photos of this competition on social media. Don't forget to tag @twirlingiscatchingtx on Instagram or Facebook and we may share your pic on one of our pages.

Playoff Holds for HS Twirlers:
If your twirler would like to attend, but is not sure of availability due to potential playoffs for their High School, they can still enter the contest with a "Playoff Hold". To do this, either mail in the entry form with a cashier's check and PLAYOFF HOLD on the entry form, or they can fill out the online registration form and mail in a cashier's check instead of doing the online payment. If doing this, please email michele.pangrac@gmail.com so she knows to expect the cashier's check in the mail.


Highlighted Event: 
The headline events for this contest will be the Fall Festival Majorette pageant and the Fall Festival Model Pageant. The contest is also offering first contest basic strut and first contest solo events.

Comment from the Director: 
The concession stand for this event promises to have healthy options for those in attendance so that they do not have to leave to find good food. Also, there will be a vendor on site selling items for those looking for a fun gift idea for their twirler.

Want to attend this event? 
Please visit the Contest Online Registration Page, download the 2019 Fall Twirling Festival entry form, or contact the director at michele.pangrac@gmail.com with any questions!


We hope you found this edition of the Contest Calendar Series useful. We are always looking for new stories about Texas twirlers. Do you have an idea or some info we could use to help highlight our sport? Contact us at texastwirlcontact@gmail.com and we would love to hear more!

Friday, October 11, 2019

Friday Night Lights Feature - Whitehouse High School Twirlers

Hello Texas Twirl Fans!

Football season is in full swing, and so are those band competitions! We hope Band-Tober is going well for all our Texas Twirlers, whether they are performing as a musician, guard member, or twirling in their competition show. So many great twirlers in such amazing band programs all over the state!

Each season this blog likes to get to know some of these awesome twirlers a little better by learning about them and their experiences. We will be meeting a new High School twirler each Friday and discovering more about our Texas Collegians during the week. Make sure to follow us at facebook.com/twirlingiscatchingtx or on Instagram @twirlingiscatchingtx for live content and Insta-story take overs by some of your favorites.

This week’s Friday Night Lights Feature is the Whitehouse High School Twirlers!


Whitehouse High School, located in Whitehouse, Texas (south of Tyler), is the home of the Wildcats, and the Whitehouse High School Twirlers! With so many great twirlers in Whitehouse, WHS is able to offer both a Varsity and JV Twirling Line. For this year, there are eight twirlers on the Varsity Squad and six twirlers on the Junior Varsity Squad.

We asked the Wildcat Twirlers what they had to do to make the line, and they told us about their audition process. “For try outs, each girl comes to the school on a Saturday and learns the routine in four hours. After a lunch break, everyone comes back to tryout with the group routine and a solo.”

These twirlers get really into the traditions at Whitehouse High School. Their favorite is when they all sing the school song as they pull into the high school when they are on the band buses coming back from a game. They also love that before every game the whole band joins hands and recites the Lord’s Prayer.

Now that we have learned a little more about WHS, let’s learn about each of the Wildcat Twirlers!


First, let's meet the eight twirlers that make up the Whitehouse High School Varsity Squad!

Ainsley McDonald
Varsity Squad Leader, Senior
“But as for me, I know my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth last” – Job 19:25
Her favorite trick is either a three-baton backhand box or a toss illusion catch pick off. She competes in Twirl Productions Unlimited and is the proudest of receiving a Judge’s “Shout out”, qualifying for Premier Performer, and receiving a division one rating at UIL TSSEC in 2018 and 2019. When she is not twirling, she loves to hang out with friends and watch Netflix. After High School she hopes to twirl at a university, major in education, minor in psychology, and “become an educator of tiny humans!”

Morgan Robertson
Varsity Squad Leader, Senior
“Fix your ponytail and try again”
Her favorite trick is horizontal box juggles. In NBTA she has won beginner three baton, strut, and solo. She also qualified for Premier Performer and has received three division 1 ratings for UIL Solo & Ensemble. When she is not twirling, she likes to spend time with her family and friends. After High School, her dream is to twirl in college, major in political science, and study pre-law, then pursue a law degree and become barred in the state of Texas.

Avery Smith
Varsity, Junior
“God is within her she shall not fail” - Psalms 46:5
Her favorite trick is a three turn. She competes in the Twirl Production Unlimited competitions. When she is not twirling, she is usually with friends or family, or is doing stuff for school. After High School she hopes to attend Texas A&M University and become a learning disability diagnostician.


Danielle Cassady
Varsity, Junior
“You can do all things if you have the courage to pursue them” – Walt Disney

Her favorite trick is a toss illusion. When she is not twirling, she likes to watch TikToks or YouTube. After High School she plans to attend college to become a pediatrician.

Julia Boucher
Varsity, Junior

“Every next level of your life requires a different you”
Her favorite trick is a three turn. She competes in the Twirl Production Unlimited competitions. When she is not twirling, she likes to show cows and participate in FFA activities. After High School she hopes to possibly twirl in college and pursue a veterinarian degree.



Kamryn Bisnette
JV, Sophomore

“You know it is cold outside when you go outside, and it is cold”
Her favorite trick is a three turn. She competes with dance twirl in level two. When she is not twirling, she loves to make TikToks. After High School she plans to move off and go to college.



Madelyn Burlingame
Varsity, Junior

“For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand and say to you: Do not fear, I will help you” – Isaiah 41:13
Her favorite trick is a toss illusion. She competes in the Twirl Production Unlimited competitions and has received Premier Performer and Division 1 Ratings at UIL, as well as first place in several competitions. When she is not twirling, she likes to hang out with friends and family. After High School she would like to twirl in college and go to school to become a Game Warden.
Nevin Fields
Varsity, Sophomore

“Feel what you need to feel and then let it go. Do not let it consume you” – Dhiman
Her favorite trick is a toss cartwheel. She competes in the Twirl Production Unlimited competitions. When she is not twirling, she loves acting and hanging out with friends. After High School she would like to twirl in college and pursue a career as an astronaut or surgeon.






Next, let's meet the six twirlers that make up the Whitehouse High School Junior Varsity Squad!

Charity Volkman
JV Squad Leader, Sophomore

“She believed she could, so she did”
Her favorite trick is juggles. She competes with 9-10 2 baton at Twirl Productions Unlimited competitions. When she is not twirling, she likes to play the ukulele. After High School she hopes to become a college majorette and get a degree in physical therapy.




Carmen Vansickel
JV, Freshman

“FEAR has two meanings – Fear Everything And Run or Face Everything And Rise. The choice is yours”
Her favorite trick is juggles. When she is not twirling, she likes to sing and do theater. After High School she plans to go to Baylor University.




Elizabeth Brown
JV, Sophomore

“Just because my path is different, doesn’t mean I’m going the wrong way” – Gerard Abrams
Her favorite trick is any type of juggles and she competes in category 1 two baton. When she is not twirling, she likes to hang with friends or catch up on Grey’s Anatomy. After High School she wants to go to Baylor University and graduate with her doctoral degree to become an Adoption Counselor.


Ginger Garred
JV, Junior

“Oh how the turntables” – Michael Scott
Her favorite trick is a catch behind the back roll. She currently only competes with her high school line but used to compete in Twirl Productions Unlimited competitions. When she is not twirling, she likes to hang out with friends and watch Netflix. After High School she hopes to become an Occupational Therapist.


Kylie Wood
JV, Freshman

“Every day is a new day”
Her favorite trick is a toss front walkover. When she is not twirling, she is doing competitive cheer and dance. After High School she hopes to go to Baylor University and be in their medicine program.




Trailbe Goff
JV, Junior

“When my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I” – Psalm 61:2
Her favorite trick is a one turn catch back hand. When she is not twirling, she likes to show livestock. After High School she hopes to go to Tarleton State University and become a large animal vet.





As a twirling group, they have many moments that they enjoy together. Their favorite is when they are on the field and hit their ending pose as a team and get to hear the excitement from the stands.

They also love supporting each other. When one of them catches a new trick, the excitement that follows just shows what a great team they have become. This unity is what the Seniors will miss the most when they graduate. “We will miss performing on the field with our team every Friday Night, and the friendships that have been created over the past four years.”

Finally, to wrap up our interview, we asked the twirlers what advice they have for someone hoping to be a future WHS twirler, and they said, “Do your best, be yourself, and smile big!”

We want to thank the Wildcat Twirlers and wish them a great rest of their season! Go Wildcats!


We hope you have enjoyed this blog post. We are always looking for great new stories about Texas twirlers. Do you have an idea or some information we could use to help highlight our sport? Contact us at texastwirlcontact@gmail.com and we would love to hear more about it.