| My Twirling Journey... 
Since the early age of four, I have been welcomed into my second family -- my baton family -- the "Stepper-ette family." I knew this was the sport for me from the first moment a baton touched my hand! Because of the welcoming, secure, and fun environment and the positive feedback and encouragement provided by my instructors, I always looked forward to attending weekly lessons. Practicing was never a chore for me -- it was something that I just loved to do! In addition to my love for twirling, it became our family's shared hobby. This common interest has made our bond of sister-hood very strong and unique (I mean, a little competition never hurts, right?) We challenged and encouraged each other to be our very best on a daily basis.
Participating in the twirling community has provided me with many amazing opportunities! I have traveled throughout the world, experiencing various cultures and forming bonds of friendship I never imagined possible! Although, at times, the practices were long and challenging, twirling has pushed me to set lofty goals and strive to achieve them. The philosophy that was instilled in me to "try your best" has molded me into the person I am to this very day. Baton twirling and dance has helped me to develop skills in time management as well as allowed me to form a strong work ethic. Becoming a baton and dance instructor allowed me to work with younger students and share my passion of the sport of baton twirling with them. Encouraging my younger students to try new things, which will in turn increase their own self-confidence, provides me with great satisfaction and personal reward.
Aside from passing my knowledge and skills down to others, my involvement with baton has provided me with the courage, self-confidence, and personal drive to try new things. Some of these remarkable achievements include: Representing the United States of America, winning the Gold Medal 3 times for the United States of America, competing competitively at AYOP (nationals), placing 1st both individually and in team events, re-establishing the feature twirler position for my high school marching band, participating in Omaha pageants, and becoming the state director for a pageant for girls and women with disabilities. In addition, through the experience of baton competitions, I have gained an enormous amount of confidence in the art of public speaking. This has been proven to be extremely beneficial in all aspects of life.
Encouraging future students to join this amazing community is an easy task for me because I believe so strongly in the benefits, values, and character that is built through an organization like this. If asked by others why they should join the twirling community, I would simply state with certainty that there is no better way to invest your time, talents, and energy than with a baton in your hand. The friendships and bonds that are made while twirling are long-lasting. I am very excited to see what new opportunities, routines, and accomplishments the future holds for us all here in the city of Marshall, Minnesota!
All My Best,
Kayleigh Kontz
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