The teams took home multiple state titles at the competition, which is the highest level in the state circuit.

At the April 19 competition at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Both the Bellefonte Area High School (BAHS) Majorettes and Bellefonte Area Middle School (BAMS) Majorettes were named 2026 PA Open and State Halftime Show Twirl Team School Majorette Champions in their respective age divisions.

“These accomplishments reflect countless hours of practice, teamwork, perseverance and a commitment to excellence,” said BAHS Majorette Coach Arimani Davy during the teams’ recognition at this week’s school board meeting. “More importantly, they represent the pride, spirit and the tradition of Bellefonte.”

Davy said the teams have a long tradition of success, and this year’s state championships continue that legacy of excellence.

PHOTO PROVIDED The Bellefonte Area High School Majorettes hold their Team Championship award at the April 19 Pennsylvania State Baton Twirling Championships at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Center, holding the award, is team captain Breanna Dickey, who has been named the next feature twirler at Indiana University. Team members include Breanna Dickey, Brooke Carlini, Sophie Harper, Emma Pyle-Lewis, Kylee McCaslin, Lauren Berkey, Megan Campbell and Ella Mauk, not pictured in order.

“Both teams have earned multiple titles in previous seasons, but winning both the Open and State Championships in the same year is an incredible accomplishment that reflects the dedication and hard work of the students and coaches throughout the entire season,” she said.

She added that preparing for the competition took months of practice and required extensive teamwork and perseverance. The teams spent long hours rehearsing routines, refining technique, building endurance and perfecting synchronization while balancing other academic and extracurricular commitments.

The teams also contended with demanding practice schedules, the pressures of competition season and the physical and mental strain that comes with performing at such a high level.

“Despite these obstacles, the students remained committed to supporting one another and representing their school community with pride,” Davy said.

The BAHS Majorettes include Breanna Dickey, Brooke Carlini, Sophie Harper, Emma Pyle-Lewis, Kylee McCaslin, Lauren Berkey, Megan Campbell and Ella Mauk, and the BAMS Majorettes team includes Natalie Bonchak, Autumn Glasgow, Harley Friel, Emma Smithmyer, Peyton Gates, Desiree Campbell, Paityn Gates, Marin McManus and Geneva Reeder.

PHOTO PROVIDED The Bellefonte Area Middle School Majorettes hold their Team Championship award at the April 19 Pennsylvania State Baton Twirling Championships at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Team members include Natalie Bonchak, Autumn Glasgow, Harley Friel, Emma Smithmyer, Peyton Gates, Desiree Campbell, Paityn Gates, Marin McManus and Geneva Reeder, not pictured in order.

BAMS’s team is coached by Alayni Alterio, Karah Hodges and Alexis Rickard.

During the girls’ recognition at the school board meeting, following resounding applause, board member Timothy Kessling congratulated them on their accomplishment.

“It has been fun watching all of you over the years,” he said, before asking Emma Pyle-Lewis to step forward.

“I’m proud of what you’ve accomplished thus far and excited to watch you blossom into the next chapter of your life,” said Kessling, her father. “Although you drop a baton every now and then, your mother and I will always be there to throw one back to you. Turn fast, throw high and catch whatever life throws at you with a smile.”

While not mentioned during the meeting, another team member has achieved a significant accomplishment. BAHS senior majorette and team captain Breanna Dickey has been named the next feature twirler at Indiana University.

PHOTO PROVIDED Bellefonte Area High School senior majorette and team captain Breanna Dickey, pictured above, has been named the next feature twirler at Indiana University.

“Breanna Dickey’s selection as the Feature Twirler for the Indiana University Marching Hundred is an incredible accomplishment and a true reflection of her talent, dedication and work ethic,” said Coach Davy.

As team captain, she said Dickey has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, passion and commitment both on and off the floor. A State, National and World Champion twirler, she has devoted countless hours of practice and preparation to reach this moment.

“This honor is incredibly well deserved,” Davy said. “We are extremely proud of Breanna and cannot wait to see all that she accomplishes at IU and beyond.”