USTA’s Senior Miss America of Baton Twirling
Long before today’s emphasis on world championships and elite athletic competition, one of the United States Twirling Association’s most coveted honors was Senior Miss America of Baton Twirling. Awarded at the organization’s national championships, the title recognized competitors who demonstrated excellence not only in baton twirling, but also in poise, presentation, and overall performance.
Unlike event championships that crowned the best soloist or strutter, Senior Miss America reflected the pageantry that was once an integral part of the sport. Contestants typically competed in multiple areas, combining technical skill with grace, confidence, and stage presence. The title represented the ideal ambassador for USTA and the sport of baton twirling.
Today, surprisingly little has been published about the history of Senior Miss America of Baton Twirling. Reconstructing its winners, traditions, and evolution remains an important opportunity for preserving the rich history of one of America’s most influential baton twirling organizations.
Interesting side note: In 1987, Wendy Elaite Johnson, 16, was reportedly crowned “the first Miss America of Baton Twirling” by the “National Twirling Association (NTA).” (American Press, Lake Charles, Louisiana)
Little Miss America of Baton Twirling (0-8)
Juvenile Miss America of Baton Twirling (9-11)
Junior Miss America of Baton Twirling (12-14)
1964- Peggy Thomas, FL
1965 – Robin Sanders, NY
1966 – Johnnye Hale, TN
1969 – Margaret Ann Brescio, NY
1974 – Lani Warren, CA
Senior Miss America of Baton Twirling (15-20)
Karen Sue Rodberg of Dayton, Ohio, was one of the nation’s premier baton twirlers during the late 1960s. She earned the prestigious 1968 U.S.T.A. Senior Miss America of Baton Twirling title, one of the highest honors in competitive baton twirling, and appeared on the cover of the 1969 Grand National Issue of Twirl magazine. Rodberg’s success extended beyond solo competition, as she also captured Grand National championships in multiple events, showcasing her versatility and technical skill.
In 1969, Rodberg became the first dedicated feature twirler for the University of Alabama Million Dollar Band. Her recruitment marked a turning point for the program, establishing the role of the nationally recognized feature twirler at Alabama and influencing collegiate halftime entertainment for years to come. Her achievements helped bridge the worlds of elite baton competition and college marching bands, cementing her place among the influential figures who shaped modern baton twirling during one of the sport’s golden eras.
1965 – Brenda Peck, TN
1966 – Deborah Sue May, IN (Coached by Patti Courtright Holst)
1967 – Leilani Olbu (Need Further Confirmation)
1968 – Karen Sue Rodberg (She was also the first majorette at the University of Alabama)
1969 – Vernie Whitney
1970 – Janet Atkins, WA
1972 – Cindy Wolf, OR
1974 – Holly Jan Mayer, OH