The mission of the Starlettes Twirlers baton twirling team is to provide a safe and fun opportunity for girls ages 4-18 to: (1) stay active by learning the skills of recreational and competitive baton twirling; (2) participate in friendly competition and develop a sense of accomplishment; (3) learn good sportsmanship and good citizenship; and (4) build relationships with other kids and families in
the community. The Starlettes Twirlers participate in local parades and other community events periodically throughout the year, and some students compete in individual baton twirling competitions. Our head coach, Belinda Smith, has successfully directed five baton twirling teams throughout her 20 years as a champion competitive baton twirler and instructor. As a baton twirler, she competed in contests and parades across the eastern part of the United States and won hundreds of awards including Miss Majorette of Virginia and numerous other state titles. Her parade corps competed locally and won many awards as well. Belinda recently retired from a career in Federal service. Today, she enjoys spending time with her husband and grandchildren and teaching and serving in children’s and other ministries in her local church. Belinda is passionate about sharing the sport of baton twirling so children can gain confidence among their peers and have fun, without putting a financial strain on their families. Coach Sarah Russell twirled recreationally and competitively for eight years. Throughout her twirling years, she performed as a feature twirler for multiple baton twirling and drum corps, as well as her high school marching band. She earned multiple awards and accolades from baton twirling competitions across Virginia throughout her time as a competitive twirler. Today, Sarah works full-time as an attorney. She is Mom to her daughters, Abby and Chloe, and to her courageous five-year-old son, Ethan, who passed away in 2021 after a difficult medical journey, and forever holds a special place in her heart. Sarah volunteers in the children's ministry in her local church and is also in the worship band. She is passionate about teaching the art of twirling so children can gain confidence and enjoy friendly competition. Coach Rachel Cook spent eight years recreationally and competitively twirling individually and with three different baton twirling groups in Virginia. She performed in parades, individual competitions, and local events in her community. Rachel is currently working full-time as a Communications Specialist and is Mom to Addy and Wyatt. She minored in music in college and has shared her beautiful singing voice leading worship on stage at her local church for many years now. Rachel is passionate about sharing the joy she experienced through baton twirling with kids in her community, so they too can learn what it’s like to work for their goals and gain self-confidence along the way.
