DIRECTOR

Ms. Sharpe’s career began when her aunt placed a baton in her hand at the age of three. At four, she started taking lessons from Penny Janowski. By five, Cindy Ramsey had taken over as her coach, and it was under Cindy’s guidance that she joined the Florida Twisters Baton Team (now FLARE Baton Team) and truly fell in love with the sport. Dedicated to becoming the best twirler she could be, Ms. Sharpe earned numerous State, Regional, National, and World Open titles throughout her career.

She was the feature twirler for Palm Harbor University High School and represented PHUHS at Florida Bandmasters Association competitions, where she earned six superior ratings for twirling ensemble. Baton Twirling is more than a passion for Ms. Sharpe—it is a lifelong commitment.

The FLARE Baton Team boast a long and distinguished history, celebrated for dynamic choreography, sportsmanship, dedication, and comprehensive representation of baton twirling at its finest. The team has earned numerous State, Regional, and National titles, with several twirlers advancing to collegiate twirling careers. Ms. Sharpe is honored to carry forward this proud legacy.

As Director of the FLARE Baton Team, she assures that all decisions are made with the best interests of the twirlers and the longevity of the Florida Twisters in mind. Committed to upholding the values that define the program, she looks forward to leading the team on an incredible journey toward continued excellence.

HEAD COACH

Claire Christian fell in love with baton twirling immediately after taking her first class at age 9.  Claire received instruction from Cindy Ramsey for the duration of her competitive career. During that time, she won many state and regional titles, and placed in the top 10 in multiple national events.  

Along with being an accomplished individual and team competitor, Claire was a UCF Majorette and served as Captain for 3 of her 4 years. While at UCF, she learned from Lynann Hudson and Cindy McIntire, which further expanded her twirling and teaching style. In 2024, Claire deepened her involvement and commitment to baton twirling by becoming registered as an NBTA judge. She now uses the judging perspective to supplement her feedback as a coach and prepare students for competition.

In addition to baton twirling, Claire has an educational background in positive youth development, psychology, and family studies. She uses this expertise to support baton twirling students as they navigate the challenges of performance anxiety, team dynamics, and personal goal setting. Claire believes that FLARE Baton Team has the responsibility to help children become not only great baton twirlers, but great people.

COACH

Meghan Anderson is a passionate baton twirler, dedicated teacher, and avid reader who believes in living life with heart, purpose, and a little sparkle.

Her baton twirling journey began at age 7 when her mother signed her and her identical twin sister up for lessons. Meghan first trained under Melodee Owens at the Florida Twirling Institute, where she quickly fell in love with the sport and the team spirit. At 11, she advanced to the Florida Twisters Baton Team (now FLARE Baton Team) under Cindy Ramsey’s guidance, progressing through the ranks to the advanced senior team. Along the way, Meghan earned several titles including Queen for a Day and Beginner Twirl Classic, and placed in the top 3, 4, and 5 at numerous individual, state, and regional competitions.

Throughout high school, Meghan continued twirling at Osceola Fundamental High School and later twirled for a season with the University of Florida Gatorettes.

After moving back to Tampa, Meghan began teaching alongside Cindy Ramsey and Rhiannon Sharpe before eventually taking over the program as Director.

Her rich experience and accomplishments have deeply shaped her coaching philosophy - one rooted in discipline, focus, and resilience. Meghan strives to inspire and encourage every student, helping them develop confidence and skills as they twirl toward their own success.

PROGRAM OPERATIONS & SUPPORT

Before becoming immersed in the world of baton twirling through his wife, Claire, Brad earned his B.S. in Finance from the University of Central Florida (UCF). The two met while working at UCF’s Student Union, where their shared experiences laid the foundation for a lasting partnership.

Although Brad wasn’t involved during Claire’s competitive twirling career, he developed a deep appreciation for the sport while watching her lead as captain of the UCF Majorettes. He also grew to admire the legacy of FLARE Baton Team (formerly The Florida Twisters Baton Team), the program Claire grew up and competed with. After their marriage in 2023, Brad became increasingly involved in supporting Claire’s coaching and judging efforts, contributing his professional skills to the team.

Today, Brad helps manage the program’s operations and provides key support to both Claire and Rhiannon. His contributions include website management, marketing, score tracking, event coordination, and anything else needed behind the scenes to help the program thrive.

Outside of FLARE Baton Team, Brad works in property management with the title of Regional Operations. He previously held roles in the securities industry as a registered broker, specializing in Alternative Investments at Raymond James Financial and later at a fintech startup.