Question: #49 My problem is that my 10 year old daughter loves baton but she has bad habits. One of these is her thumb toss; she does not roll it over her thumb all the way. She starts right, but pulls her thumb back and the baton almost goes flat on the toss, and she has a bad habit of practicing with sloppy hands.  She tends to do the poses and kicks half way when practicing.  Any help?  She loves to twirl and loves to do spins but with out the right toss she is limited.   

 Answer: #49
Ten years old is a great age to try to encourage good habits.  We have a saying around here that if you practice something ten times correctly, it becomes a good habit.  Ten times incorrectly, and well, that is what happens. Try to make practice fun by playing games and being interested in your daughter. My students seem to practice better if they have a "buddy" or someone to praise them from time to time.  Start with the easy things, do harder tricks and then come back to the easier ones again at the end of your session so that it will end on a :) note! Twirl Doctor-Annie Kennedy

 Answer:It sounds as if you are on the right track as to fixing technical problems.  Have her roll the baton over the thumb repeatedly and letting it fall to the floor.  At this point, the catch is not the issue and she must acquire a feel for completing the roll over the thumb.  To address the definition of the body as well, make sure her free hand is positioned and feet are in 5th during this process.  She can maintain good posture and free arm positioning while developing the "thumb roll".  She is possibly trying for too much height and you should start with little lifts once she is rolling the baton correctly.  Count revolutions rather than pushing for height and make sure the thumb is pointing up at the point of release.  Keep working and fixing the little things; they all add up to big things!   Twirl Doctor- Kyle Keiser 

Answer:Half the battle with fixing bad technique is realizing that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. The best thing to do to fix a thumb toss is go back to the basic and don't let her do spins until it is off her thumb every time on a little flip. I usually draw an X or picture on the outside of the thumb where the baton rolls over.  Have her just roll it over and drop it to the floor 25 times a day for a week.  Then start letting her toss it again (still with the X drawn on the thumb).  Until that is done every time right don't allow her to spin.  Give it three weeks.Also, explain judges are very picky about this skill and don't care what is done under the baton if it is not off the thumb. Twirl Doctor-Derek Brooks

 Answer: Some tips to help with an incorrect thumb release are:-Have your child hold the baton palm down and as she turns her wrist up, have her open her hand and point her thumb forward (like a hitch hiker)  Allow the baton to fall to the floor after rolling over thumb.     -Put a favorite sticker or stamp between the 2 knuckles of the thumb in the exact position where the baton should roll over for a proper thumb release. Make sure the child understands that to do it right, the baton must cross over the sticker or stamp then fall to the floor   - only after she has done this correctly many times can you then let her start lifting her wrist and arm when the baton is at the "sticker or stamp" point.  - If stickers or stamps are not available, just make a small x on that same spot on the thumb so "x marks the spot" for success.  -don't forget to reward the newly mastered technique- praise goes a long way to reinforcing good technique.As for the sloppy free hands and poses etc. -  It is not unusual for a ten year old to be concentrating more on the accomplishment of the baton work as opposed to the complimentary body positions. Try taking pictures of your child during practice and then put those pictures on display in her room. Reinforce that to look great as a twirler, all those pictures should be able to be framed and shown off.  Chances are she will know, even at this young age, that her body positions are not "frame worthy".  Repeat this several weeks later and if she has improved, take one of those new and improved photos and frame it. This positive self image will make her want to be "Frame worthy" all the time. Good Luck!  Twirl Doctor-Darlene King

 Answer: Maybe try to reward her with the opportunity to try some one spins. If she does 10 correct thumb flips first, then she can do some of the things she likes but the thumb flip is being reinforced.   Put five pennies out and each time she tries her one spin with the correct toss she can move a penny from her left to her right side when she has done five correctly and all the pennies have moved from left to right then she can have a special reward. Examples are: stars or stickers on a chart, a special food treat, 30 minutes of free time to do what ever she wants.   You know what she likes and will work for her.  Twirl Doctor-Sharon Campbell

Question: #50I haven't twirled in a while and am not sure where I am at. Could you please tell me some basic things I should know (with a short explanation). I would have loved to keep taking lessons, but my teacher quit. 

 Answer: #50Depending on your background, you will have a different perception of where your skills are now, relative to where twirling has gone.  In my organization, twirling has transformed into a truly beautiful combination of body and baton.  My students from many years ago are amazed at the freestyle, strut and dance-twirls of today, compared to their time.  Instead of full hand twirls, mainly from the right hand, several unique combinations are used with swings, slides, intricate flips and different bodywork incorporated.  Though several of the fantastic qualities of the speedy twirlers are very valuable, and in fact, making a resurgence (everything old is new again!!), many new artistic ideas are being combined to create a statement.  Your best way to get a feel for today's twirling would be to get videos from any of the major organizations.  You can use the Twirl Mania web site as a link to these sites. Twirl Doctor- Kyle Keiser

Answer: If I knew your area maybe I could help you locate a coach. I hope you know these twirls: Flat twirl, wrist twirl, two hand spin, figure 8 forward and reverse, around the world, butterfly, flourish, whip thumb flip and wheel. These are most of the basic twirls, many combinations can be done with these twirls. Twirl Doctor-Sharon Campbell

 Answer: Congratulations - hope you have lots of fun in your new venture!  There are several places you could check. For a quick start - check your local library on twirling books - some may be out dated - but worth a shot. Check some of the other areas on the Twirl Mania site - that would surely be a help. You can also contact USTA (link attached to Twirl Mania site) they have a great compulsory program that will give you basic twirls and connection material. Twirl Doctor-Lee Callicut 

Question: #51This may sound silly, but I'm 47 years young and would like to take twirling lessons for my own enjoyment.  Do you know where I can find a studio in San Diego, CA?  I have tried the yellow pages, YMCA, etc.  Do you know of any classes or lessons available in this area?  Thanks for your time.  

 Answer: #51It's never to late to do something you love, there is a group in SD that is called the Tidal Waves. She has a lot of classes, I know she has email but I can't find it at the moment. I think she would be in the phone book she has a large program. Twirl Doctor-Sharon Campbell 

Question: TD #2       Last year I organized a group of little girls to march in the Christmas Parade.  I taught a simple marching routine. I did it mainly for the parade.  I had 45 girls sign-up, and only charged a small fee for a costume. There is a lot of interest, and I think I would like to start a twirling group. I was a Majorette in Texas twenty years ago.  There are very few twirlers or Majorette in Texas high schools today.  I really liked twirling and still do. I would like my 11 year old daughter to be involved.   I really need some ideas on creating simple routines.  I am not a world class twirler, and therefore would appreciate any advice you could give me. I do know the basic fundamentals, I did win a few medals at contest.  The group would consist of 6 to 11 year olds. The newspaper wrote up a small article about lessons, already had a few calls.  Our name is the Marlow Highsteppers, didn't want to imply that we were twirlers yet. I live in a small town in Oklahoma.  Twirlers are even more scarce here than in Texas.  I would like to change that by teaching them everything I know and then send them on to a higher level.  I think we would be mainly recreational twirlers, there could be a few exceptions. Thanks for any suggestions, Gayle

Answer:Hi Gayle,

I would suggest trying to go to some competitions, parades and band reviews to watch other groups.  You could also go on line to the various twirling organizations, they are linked to Twirl Mania, and ask for info on video tapes of parade corps.  The library may have some books on twirling and they may have some things that would help you.   Also watch the Macy's Parade this Thanksgiving, there will be large group of twirlers in the parade this year. When teaching groups just remember that unison and spirit go a long way.  I don't know how close you are to Mississippi but there is clinic coming to Mississippi (I'm not sure what part of Mississippi) in October. I hope this has helped you!!  Good Luck with starting your program, Twirling is a Great Sport! Twirl Doctor- Sharon Campbell

Answer:Dear Gayle: Good luck in your endeavor! It sounds like you are on the right track, and twirling can use all the interest we can muster. Concerning the routines: Yes, keep them simple. But you can also make them showy, too. Some recommendations: - Teach all of the basic twirls properly with correct technique. This is IMPERATIVE! - Then it is much easier to build upon good, solid basics. - Concentrate on body movements, body alignment, free hands, proper posture. This makes the group look more professional because they have a more uniform and "together" appearance. - Along with basic twirls: teach swings, loops, slides, passes, taffy-pulls, and maneuvering the baton while holding a hand at each end. - All of those movements can be used as "connections" in the routine to keep it flowing smoothly. - Put the routine to specific counts so the twirlers will perform in unison. - Use specific "head movements" to accentuate certain moves and give the routine more interest. Exaggerate them. - Also, make the "basic twirls" more interesting throughout the routine by incorporating different body movements. For example: a turn, a step-ball-change, a hitch-kick, a kick, a jump, a leap, a knee-up, etc. Be creative! You will find that you will keep getting better the more you teach. I also Recommend doing the routine as you make it up. If it is not "comfortable" to you, the students will probably not find it comfortable. What feels good to you, should look good too. Don't hesitate to check yourself out in a mirror as you perform the routine! Good luck! Sincerely, Kelli Russell

ANSWER:Dear Gayle, It's difficult starting a group and I think it's important to broaden your knowledge of twirling if you plan to keep this group going. From my experience you are not only dealing with the kids but also the parents, so you need to feel secure in what you are teaching.  My advice is to find a twirling professional close to you that you could work with to advance your own skills in twirling.  You can probably get a list of teachers/judges (judges would also teach twirling) from the various twirling organizations listed on the twirlmania web site... NBTA, USTA, TU, DMA etc.  I think it would be of great benefit to you to seek a twirling coach that can support you in your endeavor. Good luck, it sounds like you're off to a good start. TWIRL DOCTOR-Bonnie Peddicord

ANSWER:Dear Gayle, How wonderful of you to take the time to organize a group for your Daughter and several others.  Every child should experience being in a parade. The thing to concentrate on is to just have fun.  Luckily for you parades are a great vehicle for that.  Use the basic you already know and just put together 8 or 10 sets of 8, simple, so the kids can memorize it and feel like a million dollars as they march up the street. If you think a "prop" might help keep the fun in it you can also offer flag baton.  Kids always really like that. Good Luck! TWIRL DOCTOR-KAREN  

Question: #3 Do you have any suggestions for someone organizing beginner majorettes? My 14 year old daughter has volunteered my services to our local high school marching band.  I was a majorette in high school for 4 years and took twirling classes for 6 years, but that was 10 years ago.  She (and some friends) wants to be a majorette.  None of the girls have twirling experience.  It is a very small band with a color guard of 6 girls.  I do not know much else right now, except that tryouts are in the spring and they will have to know 2 routines.  I have never officially taught.  Any advice would be much appreciated!                                                      CATHERINE 

Answer: TD #3Hi Catherine, Well, it looks like you have quite a challenge ahead.   I would start with getting out my old baton and see what I can remember. Several twirling organizations have videos that can be purchased.  (their sites are attached to Twirl Mania) You might want to go to the library, there are several books that show the basic twirls which may help you remember and teach them to the girls.  Call you local Park and Recreation Dept. and see if they have a  baton twirling program.   Enroll the girls, enroll yourself or do both. Check the phone book for studios in you area that teach twirling and if there are any colleges or universities near by call the band director and see if you can get one of there twirlers to help.  Good luck, and thanks for taking on such a big job.  Twirling is a great sport! TWIRL DOCTOR-SHARON CAMPBELL

 Answer: Firstly, I think you can answer part of this question yourself, by knowing your ability as a teacher and being able to step back and know your limitations.  If you are planning a beginner group, my suggestion is to keep the routines as basic as possible. Some beginner geared routines can be very effective.  Find the groups strengths and know their weaknesses.  Accent on strengths!  As far as building the program, circulate flyers, advertise etc.  If you are really rusty take a few lessons to brush up, don't be afraid to ask someone for help if you need it.  I think it's great your daughter is pulling you in.  It is good to get back involved in twirling it is a great sport! Hope I helped, Twirl Doctor Gino Cicerella

ANSWER: If you are willing to help these girls work toward the tryouts for band majorettes I think that's great.  My advice to you is to contact Another twirling instructor to review your skills and just get a refresher course on your own twirling.  The main thing is to teach them the correct fundamentals and then you can build from there.  Don't waste any time getting started as spring is only a little more than 6 months away and it sounds like you have a lot ahead of you with these beginners.  If you work with them at least once or twice a week Together it will probably be more motivational for them. Usually 1/3 of those who start drop out, so be prepared for that and teach routines that can be easily done if someone quits. Try to keep the level of twirling comfortable for them and have fun with it. Getting some help on the side for yourself just keeps you several steps ahead of the group and that's important!!  Let us know if you need help finding a twirling professional near you. Good Luck... TWIRL DOCTOR- Bonnie Peddicord

ANSWER:It is difficult to give a basic routine (or 2) here. I would suggest you try to find a coach in your area that is willing to buddy up until you feel you can handle this on your own. Could be a great way for you to learn and have a great time as well. Good Luck. TWIRL DOCTOR-KAREN

ANSWER:
I would suggest finding a qualified twirling instructor in your area.  If you would like to send a note back to the twirldoctors with your city, we can help get you some names and numbers. Thanks, TWIRL DOCTOR-Patti Jankowski

Question: TD #4

Hello! I am the current head majorette at Carson-Newman College in JeffersonCity, Tenn. In this years show we are playing Star Wars music and one of them involves the sword fight that is played out in Episode 1. What I would like some help on is tricks that the two other majorettes could do with their knives. I will be twirling fire knives and theirs will be regular ones. Two of us have twirled knives before and the other one has not. Between the two of us we know what I would consider as basics of flash work with one knife and hooking them together and doing horizontal and vertical swings with two. If you could give us any advice we would really appreciate it. Thank you for your time.    ()===========()     ()==========()      ()==========() 

Answer: TD #4 Hi - well that sounds like a great show planned.  There are quite a few Things you could do easily that aren't too difficult but gives that appearance.  I'm sure you know this, but difficulty is not really what you want to strive for, but rather a routine that is full of show and flash- that is what an untrained audience thinks is good twirling.  Think entertainment!  I would do some basic tricks that you would do with 2 batons.  High tosses and leg passes or leap passes.  Horz showers are also effective.  I would also incorporate partner exchanges.  You could do vertical dead sticks, basic vertical or horz exchanges. I would suggest after a horz exchange - put the knives together and swing over their heads and under their legs (added with a jump with both legs bent tucked under the behind) and then release the knives, still hooked together and only have them do a 1/2 revolution and then catch (all done horz.) You could have them repeat that trick several times.  You could also work with the 3 of you together to get some group exchanges involved.  I hope I have been of help to you and hope you all have a very successful twirling season.  Lee Callicutt USTA Coach and Level II Judge

Answer:In response to your question.  There are many moves you can do with knives, however they can be dangerous, be careful!  There is one move that comes to mind if the field is dry.  Swing the hooked knives together horizontally drop to one knee then the other while continuing the swing, get on your back and kick one leg then the other while passing under each leg.  This is a great move with a basic swing.  As far as fire knives, do a lot of flash and basics keep control and accent with lay backs, kicks, etc.  There is also one where you can hook them and lay them on the neck while turning, great crowd pleaser.  Try some basic exchanges with your partners this can also be very effective. Hope I helped, Gino Cicerella

Answer:My advice is be careful and stick with the basics you know. Just teach her slowly so she isn't nervous and can perform cleanly. Good Luck TWIRL DOCTOR-KAREN