Ambassador Blog with Kylie Cates

Question: Describe what it is like competing on the elite national and world level? What goes through your mind when performing? And how does what you wear impact how you perform? 

Answer: Competing on a world level is an experience like no other. Before I go on the floor, I have a ritual I do which consists of me jumping around and people usually stare at me like I am crazy but for some reason it's what I have to do. There is nothing more special than hearing the rest of the country chanting USA as you are taking the floor. I am always overwhelmed with a sense of pride and nerves as I walk up to my lane. When I am competing, I always go on automatic pilot and let my hundreds of hours in the gym take over. Sometimes it can be hard to not let the moment overwhelm you, but you have to just focus in and remember how much you prepared in the gym. I am very picky with my costumes, I do not want to feel like I am wearing a costume because it helps me feel like I am still at practice. Everything has to fit like a glove to make me feel my absolute best. 

Ambassador Blog with Bower Sarra

Question: What is is like navigating the baton twirling world, typically a female-dominated sport, as a male athlete?

Answer: Throughout my career I’ve been blessed to have a crazy amount of support from not only friends and family, but also my hometown. This helped build my confidence and be able to navigate a female dominated sport.

Often times costuming for male athletes falls as a second thought, which can be disheartening for anyone. Luckily, emerging costume designers like Emma Faye Designs allow creative freedom and expression for anyone! Male athletes can now, more than ever, curate the looks that they want to achieve and I think that creates a space for more men to join the game.