The Florida State University (FSU) Feature Twirlers are set to dazzle fans once again this football season at Doak Campbell Stadium. The renowned duo, Kylee Saltsman and Mikayla Schuller, will take the field as part of the acclaimed Marching Chiefs, bringing their dynamic baton twirling and fiery performances to the Seminole spirit.
This season marks an exciting chapter for Saltsman and Schuller, who are both committed to their academic pursuits while upholding a legacy of excellence in collegiate twirling. Saltsman, a junior from Niceville, Florida, made history this summer by becoming the first FSU twirler to win the United States Twirling Association National Collegiate Twirling Championship. “Being able to represent my school at that national level and show off the Seminoles to people who might not know our story — it’s so much fun,” she shared.
A Legacy of Excellence
Saltsman, who began twirling at age four, has always been inspired by her mother’s twirling group. “Even the day I got accepted into FSU was a dream come true,” she reflected. Her ambition extends beyond twirling, as she aims to build a career in sports marketing, ideally within a college or professional athletic team.
On the other hand, Schuller, a fifth-year mechanical engineering student from Cleveland, Ohio, combines her technical expertise with artistic expression on the field. Her journey began in a dance studio, leading her to FSU thanks to a connection with her coach. “I remember stepping out onto the field that first game, and the crowd was just electric,” she recalled, expressing her joy when fans recognize her for her fire twirling.
Schuller has also gained valuable experience through an internship at an Air Force base and plans to pursue a career in defense aviation. Balancing rigorous engineering coursework with the demands of rehearsals has enhanced her time management skills, an asset she values greatly. “Having that community over at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering campus is great,” she noted.
Dynamic Duo Built on Trust
The chemistry between Saltsman and Schuller is evident both on and off the field. “Since we’ve been twirling together for so long, being able to take the field and have fun together is really cool,” Schuller stated. Saltsman reciprocated the sentiment, praising Schuller as both an exceptional performer and a supportive friend.
Behind their captivating performances lies a demanding preparation routine. During the preseason, their practices extend from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. As football season concludes, they shift their focus to competitions, ensuring they are always at the top of their game.
Each year, the Feature Twirlers showcase unique costumes and prepare their batons by soaking them in a gasoline-kerosene mixture prior to performances, ensuring their routines are both visually striking and safe. Their commitment to their craft has also led to memorable experiences, such as engaging with representatives from the Seminole Tribe and interacting with athletic leaders.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming football season, Saltsman and Schuller are eager to bring their fire back to FSU. With their passion and dedication, they are poised to leave an indelible mark on this year’s performances, continuing a proud tradition of excellence in collegiate twirling.
