A fellow coach recently posted on Facebook about how she wished parents would place less importance on their child’s costume and focus more on their training. Her message resonated deeply with me because I’ve noticed a growing trend: more and more families are prioritizing elaborate (and often expensive) costumes over opportunities for instruction and skill development.
It’s important to acknowledge that most families have a limited budget for their child’s sport. These financial constraints mean tough choices—do you invest in a dazzling costume, or do you allocate those funds to a camp, clinic, or additional training? In almost every situation, I would recommend prioritizing training.
As a coach with over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of investing in skill development. I’ve consistently encouraged my students to attend clinics, camps, and extra lessons with guest instructors who bring fresh perspectives and expertise. These opportunities do more than teach new tricks—they inspire growth and provide connections that can profoundly impact a young athlete’s journey.
Here’s why training is invaluable:
- Fresh Perspectives and Motivation: Clinics and camps expose twirlers to new ideas, techniques, and teaching styles. A fresh approach can reignite passion and help athletes overcome plateaus.
- Building Confidence: Sometimes, a guest instructor’s unique way of explaining a trick or combination creates that “A-HA” moment, enabling a twirler to master a skill they’ve struggled with for months. This newfound mastery builds confidence that extends far beyond the twirling floor.
- Lifelong Connections: Training opportunities often connect athletes with mentors and peers who understand their journey and inspire them to reach higher. These relationships can provide encouragement and guidance long after the event is over.
When it comes to costumes, it’s worth asking: does an $800 costume truly outshine a $200 one? While costumes are part of the experience, they’re not the defining factor in your child’s success. A polished routine, enhanced by strong skills and confident execution, will always stand out—no matter the price tag on the outfit.
So, the next time you’re faced with the decision of where to allocate your budget, consider the long-term impact. That camp, clinic, or extra lesson could be the key to unlocking your child’s potential and taking their skills to the next level. While a costume may sparkle under the lights, the confidence and ability gained through training will shine even brighter.
Invest in their growth, and watch them soar. 💫
If you are interested in attending our Windy City Twirling Camp, learn more here. We'll bring in top notch teaching talent to help your twirler soar!