Phoenix Twirlers Win Back-to-Back National Titles

The Phoenix Twirlers from Parkersburg, West Virginia, just made history by winning their second consecutive national championship at the America's Youth on Parade National Championships in South Bend, Indiana. Even more impressive? Every team routine they performed earned a national placement.

The team captured the NBTA Primary Small Halftime National Championship title for the second year running. Beyond defending their championship crown, they earned five national runner-up finishes across different categories.

Individual Phoenix Twirlers athletes also shined during the competition week. Multiple soloists earned top national placements in their solo performances, showing that this program builds both strong teams and confident individual performers.

Just days before the national championship, the Phoenix Twirlers warmed up by winning four international titles at the Twirling Unlimited International Championships. That event marked the largest Twirling Unlimited competition in the event's entire history, making their four-title sweep even more remarkable.

The coaching staff couldn't hide their pride. "Our athletes continue to raise the bar every season," they said in a statement celebrating the wins.

The Ripple Effect

The Phoenix Twirlers have grown into one of the Mid-Ohio Valley's premier baton twirling programs. They're not just collecting trophies but building confidence, discipline, and lifelong friendships among young athletes.

The program now welcomes new members for its upcoming season, and here's the best part: no prior baton twirling experience is required. Athletes of various ages and skill levels can join, meaning any young person in the community can access the same opportunities that led these champions to success.

Fourteen national team members represented Phoenix Twirlers at the championship, including Ashley Miller, Trinity Probasco, Lakotahmae Prive, Riley Windland, Zaylin Reisinger, Lacyn Dye, Shae Ware, Hayden Shackelford, Scarlett Probasco, Akira Summers, Paige Townsend, Kahlia Richards, Maisie Wilson, and Wren Townsend. Each one contributed to making their community proud and showing what young athletes can accomplish with heart and dedication.

Their success proves that championship programs can thrive in small communities when young people get the support and opportunities they deserve.