- November 23, 2024
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Saige O'Reilly's photo for the Drum Majorettes of America website. Photo by McDilda Photography
Saige O'Reilly makes a heart gesture to show her love for her family and coaches. Photo by McDilda Photography
Saige O'Reilly is crowned Majorette Queen of America by last year's DMA queens. Photo by McDilda Photography
Saige O’Reilly has yearned to be Majorette Queen of America since she was a young girl. Now, after 13 years of striving, she finally is.
“When I was 5 years old, my coach, Amanda, was Majorette Queen of America," O’Reilly said. "I saw her perform at every show and represent as a beautiful queen. She had the biggest, sparkliest crown, and I knew I wanted to be just like her when I grew up."
O’Reilly, an Ormond Beach resident and Seabreeze High School graduate, took the Drum Majorettes of America's highest national title at the 2023 DMA nationals ceremony in Aiken, South Carolina, on July 19.
Katie O’Reilly, Saige’s mom, said she froze in surprise when her daughter's name was called out.
“I was in total shock, almost like I was paralyzed — I just sat there," she said. "I couldn’t believe it, but her dad was jumping up and down with excitement. As soon as I saw her, I instantly started crying. I was overwhelmed with emotion.”
Amanda Henderson has been coaching at Encore for 15 years and has been Saige’s O’Reilly's coach since day one.
“Anything that was asked of Saige, from any coach or any perspective, she would take it and make it happen," Henderson said. "She did anything and everything she could to make her dream come true."
She had the biggest, sparkliest crown, and I knew I wanted to be just like her when I grew up."
— SAIGE O'REILLY
This past year, Saige O’Reilly injured her knees multiple times.
Those injuries could have set her back. Instead, they gave her the drive to push harder.
She has won over 40 national, regional and state titles and will continue her baton career with Encore Baton and Dance studio.
She will also attend the University of Florida this year, participating in the UF Gatorette line as she competes for international and college titles.
During the school year, Saige O’Reilly trains five days a week for an average of 30 hours. During the summer, she trains five days a week for 36-40 hours.
To compete for a title, each majorette contestant must perform a solo routine, a talent and an across-the-floor solo routine known as a "strut." They must also model and participate in an onstage interview and a sit-down interview.
Saige O’Reilly placed first for her talent and onstage interview, second for her solo routine, strut and modeling, and fourth for her sit-down interview.
“I could not believe it," she said. "I honestly did not think I was going to win, just because I didn’t have the best week. But I did hold myself up, and I stayed consistent through all the events. I was very surprised when they called my name for first place."
She said her support and motivation comes from her family, her coaches and her Encore team.
Saige O’Reilly will travel to different states each month for competitions, shows and parades to represent the DMA organization.
Katie O’Reilly said baton twirling has been a blessing for Saige.
"It kept her motivated," Katie O’Reilly said. "And it’s taught her how to set goals — not just for baton, but for anything in life — and how to work towards those goals."
