National talent twirls into Notre Dame

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- America's Youth on Parade USA Twirling Championship twirls all the way back to Notre Dame for the 5th decade of this annual competition.

Happening at Joyce center, 1,300 competitors all from different places, even beyond nationwide, have arrived to compete for the next three days.

This niche event draws in almost 1.5 million dollars into the area and last year around 9,000 people attended this event.

Mackenzie Bronk, the 2024 Ms. Majorette of America, stated proudly “people from all over the nation get to come here.”

Bronk also tells ABC57 that this sport is more than what meets the eyes, and that above all it’s a very mental sport and people often underestimate that.

Many competitors begin twirling at a young age, some even following their family legacy.

Maddie Bronk, 2024 National Collegiate Champion, states, “My mom did it, my grandma did it and my older sister did it, so it’s kind of a family legacy we have all been following.”

Like with many sports, baton twirling can come with some risks, but also many rewards.

Maddie Bronk continues, “it can be very tough, but it is so rewarding when it all comes together.”

This event will continue until Friday and is open to the public as twirlers continue to compete!