Union High School Grad Named a Rutgers Featured Baton Twirler

UNION, NJ – A Union High School graduate and current Rutgers University student has been named one of two Featured Baton Twirlers at Rutgers this fall.

Gianna Viola is the third consecutive Union High School twirler to achieve the honor.  Viola, who is a junior at Rutgers, is studying dance and exercise science.

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“When I saw the flyer for a twirling clinic with the Union High School twirling team, I immediately knew I had to do it,” said Viola. “The positive and encouraging environment was astounding and really allowed me to progress in a short span of time.”  She said being able to incorporate her dance background into another activity was an added bonus. “Coach Placca knew what it took to be a star, and she ensured all of her girls would become one in their own right.”

Tiahna Selby was the first athlete from Union to be named a Featured Twirler at Rutgers since 1998, said Placca.  She was followed the next year by her sister Christiana.  “The baton has literally and figuratively been passed from one Union student to another the past three consecutive tryout years,” Placca said.

“For as long as I can remember, the stage has always felt like home,” said Viola. “At the age of three, I started my dance training at Cherney Dance Studio and never looked back. Dancing brought me immense joy and I immediately knew that it was something I wanted to incorporate into the rest of my life.”

Viola said Tiahna Selby encouraged her to audition for a spot as a new Rutgers twirler.  “With her encouraging words and hard work, I was able to secure myself a spot as one of the two new Rutgers Twirlers.”

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“I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me, and I hold it as proof that hard work and determination always pays off,” added Viola.

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