USTA Professional member Colleen Rowe lives in Maryland leads a very interesting baton life! Her extensive work in the education field along with baton led to a gymnasium being named after her! She recently talked with Inside Loop about that honor and her successful coaching career.
Inside Loop: Colleen, what's this we hear about a gym being named after you?
Rowe: Yes, I am excited to share the news that the gym at Broadneck Elementary, where I dedicated 35 years to teaching physical education, is officially named the “Colleen Rowe Gymnasium!” On May 31, 2022, I was getting ready for my annual and final physical education show that consisted of performances by multiple dance teams, my gymnastic team, hula hoop team, and jump rope team. As the show was starting, I saw my family members being escorted in and I instantly knew something was about to happen. My principal announced to the students and staff that I would be retiring and that they will continue to celebrate my legacy at Broadneck by declaring the gym the Colleen Rowe Gymnasium.
Over these 35 years, I have devoted my life to the students, school, and community. I have taught over 700 students physical education each year. During this time, I have also mentored over 20 college students studying physical education and dance. Concurrent with teaching, I created 35 themed field days and directed 30 student plays. Before school, I volunteered to run free student clubs including over 60 dance teams, 35 jump rope teams, 35 gymnastics teams, and this year I mixed in a hula hoop team. The morning clubs hold a special place in my heart because I saw how connected it made the students feel to the school. These clubs were especially meaningful for those students whose families could not afford sports and activities outside of school. People sometimes ask how I get my elementary students to perform all these unique skills. I teach the students that the discipline gained from hard work and being on time for practice will pay off, and with a level of commitment they can master any of these skills with repetition and perseverance. I believe that every student is capable of success and growth.
It is such an honor to have the gym that was my home for 35 years named after me. I will continue to use the Colleen Rowe Gymnasium proudly as I lead the Illusions Baton and Poms team practices there weekly, and I also plan to be a volunteer for the school.
Inside Loop: You are known as a successful coach and developer of teams and corps. What is the secret to your success?
Rowe: I started the Illusions Baton Twirling Club over 34 years ago and it is still going strong. The success can be attributed to several key factors. First, you need to gain and foster parent support. Most parents want to get involved and soon they become a part of this second family. The coach should always make practice/competitions fun. Winning is not everything. Most young students will not remember that they won a competition. But they will remember the fun that they had. Always stay calm and don't sweat the small stuff. Many things will happen beyond one's control. Take a deep breath and move on. I found it is essential to let the younger twirlers twirl in the gym with the older twirlers. This gives the younger twirlers people to look up to and reinforces their development and desire to be better twirlers. Communication with the students and parents is also important so that all involved know what is expected and what is happening each month. Lastly, have a plan and be organized. I have been told so many times by parents that the Illusions are well organized.
Inside Loop: Tell us three things that the twirling world doesn't know about you.
Rowe: In 2005, Disney recognized me as one of the top 35 honorees for the Disney Teacher of the Year Award. This award is presented to outstanding members of the teaching profession “whose talent, commitment and creativity have a profound and lasting impact on our children and society.” This ranks as one of my highest achievements and the memory means so much to me as an educator.
Secondly, I was on the gymnastics team in college. My favorite and best event was the balance beam. I was able to apply my twirling skills to my beam routine by doing my signature two spin move. During this time, performing a two spin was worth as much as a back tuck on beam.
And finally, I am an ice connoisseur! I love making ice cubes and having plenty of ice in my drinks, and in my freezers. I enjoy filling up ice trays, whether a usual ice tray or fancy ice cube trays. The Rowe house never runs out of ice. Talk about chillin' out!