While most seventh graders are preparing for summer break, Alexa Paino is gearing up for Paris.
The 12-year-old McLean baton twirler became the youngest member of Team USA to qualify for the 2026 World Freestyle and Rhythmic Twirl Championship, Aug. 5-9, after placing fourth in the Junior Women’s Rhythmic Twirl at the U.S. Trials in South Carolina in March.
Paino wasn’t expecting anything, emphasizing instead her commitment to putting her best foot forward whenever she competes…