College Game Day Takeover: Florida State University Feature Twirlers Kylee Saltsman & Mikayla Schuller

This week’s Twirler Takeover features the incredible Florida State University Feature Twirlers, Kylee Saltsman and Mikayla Schuller! These talented Seminoles lead the field with fire, flair, and spirit alongside the world-renowned Marching Chiefs.

Kylee, a junior from Niceville, Florida, has been twirling for 16 years, while Mikayla, a fifth-year senior from Willoughby, Ohio, has been perfecting her craft for 15 years. Together, they bring passion and Seminole pride to every performance.

Twirling Journey

Kylee began her twirling career with her mom’s group, Twinkling Twirlers, before joining Intrepid in 2018. Since then, she’s competed both individually and on teams, representing her program at countless competitions.

Mikayla started twirling with The Showstoppers before joining Intrepid as well. She began competing in USTA in 2018 and continues to shine both as an individual and team performer.

Both Kylee and Mikayla say twirling for FSU has been one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives — combining tradition, teamwork, and unforgettable moments.

Favorite Part of Game Day

Kylee loves twirling fire for the student section during halftime — “The energy is unreal!”

For Mikayla, it’s all about pregame: “The energy in the stadium when the band takes the field gets me so pumped for the game ahead!”

Most Memorable Game Day

Kylee recalls this season’s opening win against Alabama as her favorite moment: “We beat Alabama the first game of the season! Playing our fight song while the fans stormed the field was such a surreal and unforgettable experience.”Mikayla’s favorite memory came in 2022 during her first performance as a feature twirler: “We played LSU at the Super Dome in New Orleans. Twirling in that environment was unforgettable — and we blocked their field goal to win the game!”

What They Love Most About FSU Twirling

Kylee says, “Being able to represent my school on and off the field is such a privilege. I love showcasing my love for FSU through my role as a feature twirler. Taking pictures with little girls on game days is such a special moment.” Mikayla agrees, “It’s such an honor performing each game and entertaining the crowd. The Marching Chiefs are one big family, and I love being part of it. Meeting fans and taking pictures always reminds me how lucky I am to do this.”

Game Day Traditions

Before every pregame, Kylee and Mikayla take a lap around the field to greet everyone they can — from photographers to security to FSU’s Athletic Director, Michael Alford. Mikayla also shared that the band’s Skull Session, held two hours before kickoff, is one of her favorite traditions: “Each section performs for the audience to get everyone hyped before the game — it’s always so much fun.”

Game Day Prep

The Marching Chiefs rehearse daily from 4–6 PM, keeping their performances sharp and dynamic.

Kylee’s must-have before every game? “A 7Brew coffee!”

Mikayla’s go-to meal: “Chick-fil-A chicken minis from Kylee’s mom’s tailgate — and an energy drink!”

Advice for Future College Twirlers

Kylee: “Be confident in yourself! College twirling has been the most exciting part of my career — embrace it and love every minute.” Mikayla: “Have confidence and enjoy every moment. The memories you make twirling in college will last forever. Time moves fast, so soak it all in.”

From pregame traditions to fire-twirling halftime shows, Kylee and Mikayla represent the very best of Florida State spirit. Their talent, dedication, and love for twirling light up every Seminole game day — and we can’t wait to see what they’ll accomplish next!

Go ‘Noles!