We attended the recent USTA California State Championships and the event was a big success! My sister, Lori Hamilton Kinsey, and I grew up in a baton twirling family and competed at “State” each year. It was a wonderful opportunity, full of memories and smiles, to go and watch the performances this year and to see some baton twirling friends from the past. The competition was held in the beautiful facility at Heritage High School in Brentwood.

Some of the talented athletes competing were Matt Freeman, Monica Lee, Kurtis Hubbell, Rebecca Lantz, Aryn Bigler, Emily McCrone, Jenna Vonich, and Alyssa Go. The weekend also included an opportunity for beginning and intermediate athletes to perform and compete in the “May Madness” part of the event.

It was a delightful surprise to see so many twirling friends and colleagues from the past! Michael Cruz and his mother, Rhoda, attended and were part of a tribute to Michael’s sister, Cecilia Cruz McLean. Cecilia passed away last year and her contributions to the sport of twirling, particularly in California, were immense. Despite the sad circumstances, it was truly wonderful to talk to Michael again.

Left to right: Michael Cruz, Wendy Campbell Maul, Lori Hamilton Kinsey, Cindy Hamilton

Other friends that we got to catch up with were Wendy Campbell Maul, Sharon Campbell, Paige Campbell (now there’s a terrific twirling family!), Barbara Dockter, Mark Nash, Dandi Hicks-Manuel, Karla Krull Hubbell, Kristine Clinger Rodrigues, and Margaret Wentz.

In-state and out-of-state judges included Mark Nash, Jackie Stewart, Amby Taylor, Barbara Dockter, Donna McAtee, Jenny Hannah, Kristine Rodrigues, Krystal Mignone, Tina Allman, and Sarah Enos. The championships were also attended by the press and articles promoting the event (and the sport of baton twirling) appeared in two local papers. Kudos to the California Baton Council and the many coaches, volunteers, and parents who made “State” possible with their time and support!