Twirlers, Dancers and
Flags

 

 

Golden Girl

Purdue's Golden Girl ranks among the nation's best twirlers and is at the top of her art form. This talented performer is selected by audition each spring, and serves as a leader of the "All-American" Marching Band as well as an ambassador for Purdue University. Recognized nationally for her unique talents, this coveted position has roots going back to the early history of Purdue Bands.

The tradition of the Golden Girl was begun in 1954 during the era of quarterback Lenny Dawson, whose poise on the field prompted the press to nickname him Purdue's "Golden Boy." At the same time, Dr. Al G. Wright (now Director of Bands Emeritus) brought his first twirling protégé to the field, Juanita Carpenter, who earned the title of "Golden Girl."

When Dawson graduated Purdue was left without a "Golden Boy," but Carpenter's graduation didn't have the same effect on her title. Instead "Golden Girl" evolved into a movable crown that's been passed down through generations , and the position has become the standard for excellence within the twirling community. Golden Girl #27 MerrieBeth Cox, from Roselle, IL, became our newest Golden Girl in 2008.

A history of Purdue's twirlers can be found here.

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Girl in Black and Silver Twins

In 1962, another solo twirler position was created to compliment the Golden Girl. June Ciampa was the first to fill this position. Dressed in Purdue's other color, black, she first performed as the International Twirler. This title was later replaced with "Girl in Black." Our current Girl in Black is Cecilia Daizovi from Ossian, IN.

Jordan Foster from Attleboro, MA and Alyssa Lyzen from Brecksville, OH take on a special role as Silver Twins for the Purdue "All-American" Marching Band. The position of Silver Twins was created by Al G. Wright in 1960.

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Golduster Dance Team

More than just a dance line, or a pom-pom squad, the Golduster Dance Team tackles many different performing duties as part of the "All-American" Marching Band. Jazz, rock and roll, Broadway, ballet, hip hop and even a touch of cheerleading complement the Goldusters' performances. Members work together with a student leadership team and the Auxiliary Director to create high-energy routines that fit the various themes of the marching band shows. Besides football games, the Golduster Dance Team also perform in parades, stage shows and at various sporting and community events.

Click here to learn more about the Golduster Dance Team.

Click here for a printable poster of the 2012 Golduster Dance Team!

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Golden Silks Color Guard

Adding to the visual impact of the Purdue "All-American" Marching Band is the Golden Silks Color Guard. This group adds splashes of black and gold during pregame performances and a variety of color to halftime shows. Known for their precision and style, the Golden Silks Color Guard members bring the marching band's music to life through intricate routines that visually interpret the tunes. Members work together with a student leadership team and coach to create and perfect routines that are both fun and challenging. The Golden Silks Color Guard is an integral part of the marching band at home football games, parades, campus and community events, and the Indianapolis 500. In the spring semester the team becomes a competitive Winterguard in the Independent A class of the MidWest Color Guard Circuit.

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Interested in joining Purdue Auxiliaries?

Click here for audition information

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