World Series of Baton Twirling returns to Notre Dame, bringing 1,300 athletes to South Bend

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- More than 1,300 baton twirlers have descended on the University of Notre Dame this week as the World Series of Baton Twirling returns to the Joyce Center for its 54th year.

The five-day competition considered the nation’s largest and longest-running event of its kind, features athletes ranging in age from 2 to 23. Competitors represent about 100 colleges and universities while showcasing events that include single baton, double baton, group performances and themed routines inspired by popular movies.

For many athletes, the performances are the result of years of practice.

“I’ve been twirling for 15 years, so these moves have been really worked on through that time,” competitor Madison Anderson said. “Some of my moves, like the back necks, have taken me years to perfect. They’re super hard, but all that time and energy has paid off.”

The size of the event extends beyond the competition floor. Families and athletes spend long days inside the Joyce Center, with many setting up tents and lawn chairs throughout the hallways between events. Some participants even arrive early to secure prime spots for the week and sell them off.

While the routines appear effortless, competitors said the mental challenge can be just as demanding as the physical one.

“People don’t realize the mental toll it takes on you,” said Maddie Bronk, the 2025 Miss Majorette of America. “You can practice for hours and hours, but when it’s time to compete, you have to be very self-aware and perform to the best of your abilities without letting the nerves take over.”

The championships also serve as a key tune-up for several of Team USA’s top baton twirlers, who will compete at the World Baton Twirling Championships in Italy later this summer.

For others, the competition is about more than winning a title. Many athletes hope baton twirling will help them earn college scholarships or continue performing at the collegiate level.

Kaycee Schultz, the 2025 Teenage Miss Majorette of America and a twirler at the University of Mississippi, said the school’s baton twirling program played a major role in her college decision.

“When I went for tryouts, I thought, ‘I have to go here,’” Schultz said. “Now it’s such an honor to be in the SEC at a school that supports us so well. I think it’s a huge deal.”

The World Series of Baton Twirling has been held at Notre Dame since 1970, making South Bend the longtime home of the championships.

This year’s event features competitors from more than 30 states, along with international participants from Canada and Spain. Organizers say the championships also provide a boost to the local economy, drawing visitors who fill area hotels, restaurants and other businesses throughout the week.