Robbie Maloy Riley Feature Twirler Scholarship

The Robbie Maloy Riley Feature Twirler Scholarship is established in honor of Robbie Maloy Riley. Robbie Sue Maloy was Sam Houston State University’s first Feature Twirler in 1968. She was born in Mercedes, Texas. At the age of 5, Robbie was selected to be the Mercedes High School Cheerleader Mascot. As a mascot she saw baton twirlers and knew this was exactly what she wanted to do. Under the direction of “Men’s National Champion,” Mr. Griff O’Neil, 5-year-old Robbie began living her dream. By age 9, Robbie won her first National Baton Twirling Association Texas State Juvenile Advanced Championship, held in Lubbock, Texas. At 10 years old, she captured 3rd place at the NBTA competition in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Soon after, she became the Griff O’Neil Irish Guards Mascot. During Robbie’s early years of baton twirling, she was featured on various television stations, at local events, and in Mexico. She taught competitive twirling corps and baton twirling during summer camps and private lessons until she was in her late 40’s. The sport of baton twirling has brought much joy into Robbie’s life, teaching her many life lessons. Her involvement with baton twirling allowed her to travel the country, meeting special people and showcasing her love for twirling. Ultimately, it boosted her confidence to follow her lifelong dreams. Robbie’s greatest desire is to give back to other baton twirlers, so that they may experience the same level of opportunities and joy that baton twirling brought into her life.