Today, we’re excited to introduce you to three incredible college twirlers from Northern Arizona University (NAU): Abigail Austin, Jolina Andrews, and Madelynn Cleis! These dedicated athletes bring skill, spirit, and enthusiasm to NAU’s game days, and they're ready to share their journeys, game day highlights, and insights into what it takes to twirl at the college level.
Meet the NAU Twirlers
Abigail Austin (Abby) – Junior from Flagstaff, AZ
Jolina Andrews (Jo) – Junior from Aurora, CO
Madelynn Cleis (Cleis) – Senior from Phoenix, AZ
With 15 years of twirling experience for both Abby and Cleis, and 12 for Jo, this trio brings impressive skills and backgrounds to the field. Abby and Jo are in their third year of collegiate twirling, while Cleis is a veteran with four years on NAU’s team. Here’s what drives their passion for twirling and keeps them motivated on and off the field.
Twirling Journeys
Each twirler has a unique journey that led them to NAU:
Abby started out on a twirling team and has found a home in NAU’s supportive community.
Jo twirled competitively with Colorado Twirls, twirled solo, and even twirled for her high school, making her a well-rounded twirler with varied experience.
Cleis spent 12 years as a competitive soloist with Arizona Twirling Athletes before joining NAU, where she now proudly represents the Lumberjacks.
Favorite Moments and Traditions
When it comes to game day, each twirler has favorite traditions and moments that make the experience special:
Abby loves pregame performances, which get the crowd hyped for the game.
Jo looks forward to the light show that illuminates the field just before the team’s grand entrance, setting an electric mood.
Cleis loves the halftime energy and pumping up the crowd with the band.
Game day rituals also help them get into the zone. Abby and her teammates share a good-luck handshake and a motto, “Whatever happens, happens.” Jo and the team have a “skull session” (final practice) and follow age-old traditions like the log-cutting ceremony for every touchdown. Cleis “gets the drops out” by intentionally dropping tricky moves in warm-ups, releasing any jitters before she steps onto the field.
Unforgettable Game Day Moments
Game days at NAU are filled with memorable experiences, and each twirler has a favorite:
Abby’s unforgettable moment was the first time she ran out for pregame. Her nerves quickly turned into exhilaration in the energized dome atmosphere.
Jo’s highlight was performing at her first sold-out game, where the crowd’s excitement fueled her performance.
Cleis’s standout memory was the thrilling announcement that the Lumberjack Marching Band had been chosen to perform in the 2025 Macy’s Day Parade!
How They Prepare for Game Day
Preparation is key to their success. Abby gets everything ready the night before, ensuring she has all her essentials from makeup to extra glitter. Jo and Cleis practice the Friday before game day and again on Saturday morning, giving them plenty of time to polish their moves and gear up.
Fuel for Performance: Game Day Snacks
A good snack is crucial before the big show! Here’s what fuels these twirlers:
Abby opts for a coffee and protein bar.
Jo is a fan of a Qdoba meal before game time.
Cleis sticks with a classic Egg McMuffin for pre-performance fuel.
Advice for New College Twirlers
As experienced college twirlers, Abby, Jo, and Cleis have great advice for newcomers:
Abby emphasizes time management and balancing schoolwork with twirling.
Jo encourages twirlers to have fun and stay true to themselves.
Cleis advises freshmen to pace themselves and make room for personal growth while they adjust to college life.
Final Thoughts
For these twirlers, college twirling is about more than the routines – it’s about being part of a community. Abby loves the NAU family that supports and appreciates twirlers. Jo is thrilled to share baton twirling with the Flagstaff community, and Cleis cherishes performing at games for multiple sports, representing the culture and spirit of NAU.
As they look forward to their biggest performance yet – representing NAU in the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – Abby, Jo, and Cleis continue to inspire others with their passion, dedication, and love for twirling. We’re excited to cheer them on this season and beyond!
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