On a Monday night inside the Oak Lawn Pavilion, the sound of music bounces off the walls as girls and boys as young as 5 spin batons, snap pom pons and wave flags in sync. Sequins catch the light. Feet stomp in time. Laughter mixes with the count of coaches calling the rhythm.
This is practice for the Twirling Bears and Bearettes, a nonprofit youth group that has trained generations of kids in baton twirling, pom pons and colorguard. Since 1999, founder and director Elaine Jones has built the south suburban program into a competitive force and a supportive community.
“We teach teamwork, self-discipline, performance skills and, above all, provide a fun activity for youth,” Jones said. “It’s a passionate environment.”
Jones started the group more than two decades ago in Midlothian because she wanted to introduce independent baton twirling and pom pons to an area where few opportunities existed. Today, the program draws from Oak Lawn and surrounding suburbs.
Practices take place every Monday night at the Oak Lawn Pavilion. Kids 5 and older are welcome to join, no experience needed.
The Bears don’t just practice for fun, they also perform in parades and compete in tournaments across the region.
In 2023, their recreational pom pon squad won a national title at the Cornhusker State Games. In 2024 and 2025, their athletes brought home gold medals from the AAU central district competition. Over the years, they’ve also produced multiple national solo champions.
Jones, who holds a psychology degree from the University of Illinois Chicago and a graduate certificate in marketing and employment counseling from the University of Springfield, said the wins are only part of the story.
“The skills the kids learn here go beyond trophies,” she said. “They gain confidence on stage, they learn how to push themselves, and they form bonds that last.”
After nearly 25 years, Jones is quick to remind families that it’s never too late to join. “Students can join anytime,” she said.
Parents can call 630-324-6421 to learn how to sign up.