It's a sport. It's a discipline. It's an interest.

For Mikayla Millisock and Michaela Aponte, baton twirling requires dedication.

Michaela, a rising second-grader at Fritz Elementary School, and Mikayla, a recent graduate of Conestoga Valley High School, are both accomplished baton twirlers.

"It's definitely a sport," said Rebecca Aponte, Michaela's mom. "I have four daughters in twirling, and I am amazed at what these girls can do. They put their blood, sweat and tears into twirling. I think it takes a lot more skill than people realize. It takes as much dedication as any sport. It's not just tossing a baton. It's hand-eye coordination."

Mikayla and Michaela are both members of Ab-Salute Twirling, which is located at 109 Zooks Mill Road, Brownstown. Recently, they each took top honors in their age divisions at a regional baton twirling championship in Corning, N.Y.

A total of more than 50 baton twirlers across five age categories competed.

"We as baton moms always talk about the growth in kids," said Rebecca. "You see girls encouraging each other. I want my girls to take away that good sportsmanship and that drive. I love seeing the support. Baton has a great way of building these girls up and preparing them for the world."

As part of the regional competition in Corning, participants performed solo twirling routines and underwent personal interviews. A panel of judges used a predetermined scoring system to rate the competitors.

"For my Michaela, it was her first time going after a title, which is a big thing in twirling," said Rebecca. "She's been competing since she was 2, but she never did something like this before. As a mom, it's nerve-racking. But to see her go out and accomplish something and compete so hard, it's an amazing feeling."

Through her involvement in baton twirling, Michaela Aponte has learned some things about herself and others - a work ethic, collaboration and accountability. It has also caused her to consider her future, one that at least at this point includes baton twirling.

"Michaela has had a baton in her hand since she was six months old," said Rebecca. "She has three older sisters who are in twirling. There's just been a fire in her at a very young age. It's been a lot of dedication, a lot of practice. It becomes very much your life. You've got to want it. I think that drive has helped her become successful."

For additional information, go to https://absalutetwirling.weebly.com.