The Penn State Blue Band has officially announced Mackenzie Bronk as its new featured twirler Blue Sapphire for the 2022-23 season. After the upcoming graduation of Gillian Brooks, Bronk will fill the role as the band’s 17th Blue Sapphire.

The Owings, Maryland native fills this respected role with a lifetime of twirling training. A member of Wheaton Dance Twirl teams and a World Team Member in 2015, 2018, and 2021, Bronk has twirled on countless stages prior to joining the Blue Band.

Hailing from Northern High School in Owings, Maryland, Bronk is a former Miss Majorette of America and Grand National Twirling Champion, and she is no stranger to the competitive nation of twirling. Yet, even as a seasoned star, it appears that she has always prioritized love for the sport on her path to Happy Valley.

“No matter how stressful it gets, remember you’re doing this sport because you love it,” said Bronk in her profile from Twirling Nation.

As Bronk follows in the footsteps of Penn State twirling legends, there’s no doubt that the newest addition to the Blue Band will put her own spin on the well-respected role. You can catch Bronk on the field at Beaver Stadium this fall as she twirls for #107kStrong.

Congratulations, Mackenzie, and good luck!