Maryann Beseda Brigido, the original “Miss Devilette” of Old Forge High School, Pennsylvani, has passed away at the age of 87. Her death marks the loss of the first performer to hold a title that has come to define Friday night halftime shows in the small Lackawanna Valley community for generations.

The Miss Devilette tradition began with Brigido in 1949 as a way to elevate the Old Forge Blue Devils marching band. Over the decades, the position evolved from a traditional majorette feature to fire baton and sabre twirler.

Nadia

Every year, an incoming senior competes for the highly coveted title. Last year, Nadia Wansacz was crowned. A cheerleader and dancer, she quicky learned to twirl two fire batons. In an interview with a local reporter, she said the Miss Devilette for Old Forge is a great responsibility and an amazing opportunity. “It’s really just about representing your town,” she said, “and I really want to do that and be someone the little girls can look up to and put on a show for Old Forge.” 

Nadia is a member of the Double R Twirlettes based in Peckville, Pennsylvania.

Rich Tradition

Miss Devilette is a rich tradition (just look at that cape and those boots!) rooted in the post-World War II boom of small-town school spirit. It’s nothing short of amazing that the title has become not only a highly competitive civic honor but that it still demands the rigor of baton, fire baton and sabre twirling.

We found a news clipping from 2009 that highlighted Old Forge Schools 100th anniversary. At that time, they had collected the names of every Miss Devilette with the exception of just a few year. We have not been able to locate the list online.

Rest in Peace Ms. Maryann and long live Miss Devilette!

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