Colleen Rowe

Every year at the U.S. National Baton Twirling Championships, the United States Twirling Association (USTA) recognizes a coach who has distinguished him or herself through years of successful coaching and who embodies the USTA coaching philosophy. USTA's 2025 Coach of the Year is Colleen Rowe, a coach for nearly five decades and director of Illusions Twirling, based in Arnold, Maryland. USTA recently talked with her about her coaching career and the advice she has for other coaches.

How did you get started in baton twirling?

I was extremely shy as a young child. Our family pediatrician strongly recommended my parents to get me involved in an athletic activity. My Mom did some research and found that I could join a group that marched in parades, and I became a member of the "Beach Belles." I fell in love with twirling, the skills, the performance, and the people who also seemed to love the sport.

When did you start coaching?

I began coaching when I was 16. While performing a toss walkover in a parade, an 11-year-old told her mom, "I want her to teach me." That started my coaching career. That child developed a passion for the sport, was dedicated, and developed quickly. Fast forward 47 years. That first student is now one of the Illusions coaches and her daughter is now one of my students who has also excelled in the sport.

What are the highlights of your coaching and twirling career?

Through multiple decades I have enjoyed the satisfaction of watching my students train from beginner to the advanced and international levels. Watching and enjoying the successes throughout the journey and seeing their commitment pay off.

Coaching my daughter Breanne from the age of 1 and experiencing the joy of her competing in three world championships. Watching Bre with the honor of holding the American Flag representing the United States of America.

Watching my students take the field and perform at such high levels at high school and college football games.

What is the "secret to your success?"

Building relationships beyond baton twirling is one of the most powerful parts of being a coach. Every child is an individual who comes into practice with their own experiences, challenges and background. Coaches need to understand the importance of investing time to understand their world and coach with awareness and empathy.

I always say the most successful coaches are remembered not just for champions they trained but for the confident, resilient young adults they have shaped.

What advice do you have for other coaches?

• Knowing and accepting that every athlete is different. Teach to the students' strengths, personality and learning style.
• Involve your parents along with their students so that they have a sense of importance and gain the satisfaction of being supportive to the overall team mission. This helps create a positive, family environment.
• Make it fun. Have structure but make it a point to laugh often while coaching. Singing a song always helps.

If you would like to nominate a deserving coach for 2026 Coach of the Year, see the CRITERIA, then submit your NOMINATION by June 1, 2026.