Submitted photo Youngstown State University featured twirlers Kaylynn Egan, left, and Madeline Huff brought home two gold medals and one silver medal after representing Team USA at the International Baton Twirling Federation World Championships in Turin, Italy, this summer.
**YOUNGSTOWN** — Twirling their way into history, Youngstown State University (YSU) twirlers Madeline Huff and Kaylynn Egan returned from the International Baton Twirling Federation World Championships in Turin, Italy, with two gold medals and one silver medal. Their remarkable achievement not only highlights their exceptional talent but also showcases the dedication and spirit of the YSU community.
Taking center stage during the two-week event, Huff, a junior majoring in biochemistry, and Egan, a sophomore pursuing exercise science, competed against elite performers from over 25 countries. The experience was both exhilarating and humbling for these young athletes, who found themselves in a world of fierce competition and cultural exchange.
“It was definitely an amazing opportunity, first of all, just being able to represent the United States and YSU on top of it,” reflected Huff. The thrill of hearing their names called during the competition was a moment they will cherish forever, marking an unforgettable chapter in their twirling journeys.
**Gold Medal Triumphs**
The duo achieved their first gold medal as part of the majorette corps with a captivating ensemble performance themed around the “Blues Brothers.” This large group was composed of 25 athletes, showcasing their synchronized movements and flair on an international platform. This winning performance set the tone for their continued success.
Following this, they clinched a second gold in the Nations Cup, competing as part of a tight-knit eight-member team. Displaying exceptional prowess, they finished first in both the preliminary and final rounds, outshining 15 other national teams. Their crowning glory came when they competed for the silver medal in the elite World Championship against the top five teams globally.
“For me, it was definitely winning gold for the first time,” said Huff, highlighting the significance of this victory. “Knowing we accomplished something like that as a team was probably my most memorable moment.” Egan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing her joy of collaborating closely with her teammates during the Nations Cup.
**The Competitive Edge**
Both athletes noted the stark contrast between performing in local venues like Stambaugh Stadium and the pressure-packed arena of international competition. “Twirling on the football field in front of a whole stadium is more of a performance,” Huff stated. “The difference was in the fact that we were actually being judged in Italy, so the pressure was a little more intense at that level.”
Despite the challenges, Egan and Huff attribute a large part of their success to the rigorous training and preparation they received at YSU. The camaraderie within their university’s community played a crucial role as well. Egan stated, “All the professors and coaches are so amazing and supportive, especially in my program.” Their gratitude extended to the band director and the Penguinettes, highlighting how the support system rooted in YSU contributed to their triumphs.
**Mentorship Matters**
Guidance from mentors has been invaluable for both athletes. Past featured twirlers at YSU introduced them to competitive opportunities, aiding in their development. Huff expressed her appreciation, saying, “Without YSU and the people I’ve met here, I wouldn’t have been able to go overseas and twirl with this team.” The influence of dedicated mentors cannot be overstated; they not only train but inspire the next generation of performers.
“Hard work pays off, and dreams really do come true,” Egan concluded, a statement that reflects the ethos of perseverance that both athletes embody. Furthermore, Huff affirmed, “Anything is possible. If you keep pushing and working hard, then it will come to reality.” Their journey is a testament to the resilience and determination that sports demand.