As USTA Ambassadors, Bebo, Cooper, and Welsheimer are reaching out to athletes who have retired from competition, or are nearing the end of their competitive careers, to encourage them to stay involved in the sport in other ways; as coaches, judges, and/or volunteers for their state or regional councils or USTA. They share information about the many opportunities and resources that are available to help retiring athletes write the next exciting chapter of their twirling story.
If you are, or know of an athlete who might be interested in connecting with an Ambassador, email pr@ustwirling.com and we’ll put you in touch with one of these inspiring young leaders.
Adaline Bebo
Competitive accomplishments: Team USA representative (WBTF, WFNBTA, IBTF), Elite Artistic Twirl International Cup Gold Medalist, X-Strut World Champion, Multi-Event National and Grand National Champion, and Baylor University Gold
Post-competitive involvement: I am a twirling consultant who helps athletes set and achieve their goals through choreography development, routine cleaning, and the cultivation of healthy mental and physical training habits. In addition to consulting, I serve on the USTA Coaches Department, where I help develop and teach certification curriculum. I also work as a USTA Judge and currently serve as a Next Step Ambassador.
Why stay involved with USTA?: USTA has been my home for so much of my life. Growing up in USTA shaped me into the determined, resilient, and technical athlete - and person - I am today. I believe deeply in a future where our athletes are supported, celebrated, and respected on a larger stage, backed by the many people who make this organization what it is. Baton twirling means so much to me, and I am truly passionate about giving back and sharing the knowledge and experience I’ve gained along the way.
Goals as a USTA Ambassador: As a USTA Ambassador, I hope to help athletes recognize the value of the time, dedication, and expertise they’ve poured into this sport and show them how it can grow into a meaningful supplemental career. Being able to pass that experience on to the next generation is deeply rewarding. I want to help make the transition from performing in front of the judges’ table to stepping into roles behind the scenes feel less intimidating and more attainable, and to remind former athletes that they are capable, needed, and welcomed in professional involvement.
Emily Cooper
Competitive accomplishments: Competed for 16 years within USTA. Competed at the 2015 and 2019 International Cup competitions.
Post-competitive involvement: I am now a Level I Coach, Level II Judge, and member of the USTA Communications Department.
Why stay involved with USTA?: I am so happy to give back to the organization that supported me throughout my twirling career.
Goals as a USTA Ambassador: Diving into a professional role surrounded by the people that you looked up to during your twirling career is a scary task. As a USTA Ambassador, I am hoping to bridge that gap to make entering into a professional role an easier and less daunting task. There are so many roles within USTA that can fit many different types of schedules and skill sets.
Kirsandra Welsheimer
Competitive accomplishments: Former Silver and Bronze World Medalist in Freestyle Pairs; Former Junior A Artistic Twirl Pairs Gold Medalist; Former Washington State Champion in Solo, 2-Baton, Artistic Twirl, Artistic Twirl Pairs, and Solo Pairs; Former Western Regional Artistic Twirl Grand Champion; Former Tiger Twin Feature Twirler at the University of Memphis; Two-Time USTA Collegiate Finalist
Post-competitive involvement: After retiring as an athlete, I transitioned into coaching with the Memphis Blue Twirlers full-time, where I assist with choreography and serve as support staff for additional programs. I am currently working toward my judging certifications and have begun volunteering with the USTA Coaches Department. Beginning this year, I will also be serving on the Tennessee State Board.
Why stay involved with USTA?: I want to give back to the sport that has given me so much. Growing up in USTA, I can confidently say I would not be who I am today without twirling. I am deeply passionate about supporting the continued growth of this sport and about encouraging and investing in the athletes of tomorrow.
Goals as a USTA Ambassador: One of the most impactful ways to do so is by helping bridge the gap between today’s athletes and USTA’s future professional members, guiding them in identifying and transitioning into roles where they can best succeed and contribute.
