Modeling at twirling competitions

    At baton competitions, girls have the opportunity to model dresses and uniforms.  They are judged in areas such as appearance.  The judge looks at whether the dress or uniform is age appropriate.  They also pay attention to the fit of the uniform or dress.   The modeling also has to conform to a routine.  The twirler also has to smile, look at the judge and not look at her feet.  
   At certain competitions, the twirler can compete in pagents.  The basic skills pageant (special beginner and novice level) includes costume modeling, basic march and solo.   If beyond the novice level, the pageants will include dress modeling, strut and solo.
    I encourage children to compete in the twirling competitions.  It gives them a sense of pride, confidence and self-esteem.  They also learn that they have to work to get what they want  (work hard).  They also learn that they will not always win, but they can always try again.  New twirlers learn the lesson that they need to be assertive.  It takes a lot of courage to go up in front of the judge the first time.  Just remember that they will not bite.