In case you missed it, a recent Daily Californian article featured optometry students Angelina Chen and Benjamin Zietz for their role in a memorable Berkeley milestone. As co-founders of Cal Twirlers – launched in 2024 with undergraduate student Angelina Wang – they took the field at Memorial Stadium for the first baton twirling performance alongside Cal Band in its 134-year history.
Reflecting on the experience, Ben shared:
Prior to coming to Cal, both Angie and I were baton twirlers for Team USA and used to compete individually and as a pair. Now that we are in optometry school and retired from competitive baton twirling, Cal Twirlers has been a fun creative outlet for us to share our passions for baton twirling with the Berkeley community.
Ben described the performance as a great experience, noting it marked the moment their vision for Cal Twirlers was recognized by Cal Athletics. He recently began coaching in the San Jose area, where his team is preparing for the National Baton Twirling Championships in Iowa this summer. Congrats to the Cal Twirlers!
In the photo: Angelina Chen, Benjamin Zietz, Angelina Wang.
DailyCal Article