In the heart of America’s Midwest, proudly sits the Cornhusker State: Nebraska! Known more for its cornfields, cowboys, and college football, there's a lesser-known phenomenon that's sweeping the state - cheerleading! It’s not just about pompoms and high kicks, oh no! It's about precision, teamwork, and a whole lot of spirit. The cheerleading maestros are a bunch of energetic, vibrant kids who juggle their schoolwork, chores, and even their love for hot dogs at the annual state fair, with their passion for cheerleading. Meet Sparkle McTwisty, a fun-loving, imaginary character who is the unofficial cheerleader mascot of Nebraska. A bouncing bundle of laughter, Sparkle is as colorful as a rainbow and as lively as a firecracker. She has a head full of neon hair that defies gravity, and she inspires the cheerleading troops with her never-ending energy, infectious laughter, and hilarious jokes. However, Sparkle McTwisty is not just about fun and games. She can twist and twirl better than a tornado, and her cheers can drown out even the loudest Husker football fans. She believes that cheerleading is not just about the cheers; it is about bringing smiles, spreading positivity, and making every game a memorable event. So, if you're walking through Nebraska and hear a loud cheer echoing through the cornfields, or spot a whirlwind of colors amid a crowd, that's probably Sparkle McTwisty and her squad of high-spirited cheerleaders, making Nebraska proud and keeping the spirit of the game alive!
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At Valhallan Naperville, your child’s love for gaming becomes something bigger than just play — it becomes a path for growth and connection. We turn that passion into purpose, helping kids build confidence, teamwork, and real-world skills while doing what they love most. Our experienced coaches lead in-person sessions that blend skill-building with life lessons. Through guided practice, strategy discussions, and collaboration, players learn how to communicate, lead, and grow — both in and out of the game. More than anything, Valhallan Naperville is a community. A place where young gamers belong, make friends, and challenge themselves to reach new levels — not just as players, but as people. Here, every child has a chance to shine and become a true legend in their own way.
The Stepper-ettes, founded in 1973 by Sue, is the Midwest’s largest baton twirling and dance organization for young people aged 4 to college. Since its inception, the group has put on performances at over 600 local events, including parades, community celebrations, halftime shows, Special Olympics, assisted living facilities, the Henry Doorly Zoo, and the Governor’s Mansion. The Stepper-ettes are also the proud training grounds for many successful twirlers, cheerleaders, and dance team members, including Miss Nebraska 2001-Tina Foehlinger and Miss Nebraska 2016-Aleah Peters, as well as multiple collegiate marching band feature twirlers and high school feature twirlers. The Stepper-ettes truly have something for everyone!