SBTA Community Impact Award - Jasmine Runge & Josi Treleaven

Jasmine Runge began her baton twirling journey at the age of 5 in Regina. As an athlete, she has won numerous Grand National awards, including Athlete of the Year, and in 2017 received the Sharon Holiday Sportsmanship Award. Throughout her career, she competed in seven international/world championship events, excelling in individual, pair, and team competitions. Jasmine credits these experiences for having instilled a strong work ethic in her and shaping her into the person she is today. Today, she is proud to work as a Special Education teacher with the Regina Catholic School Division, where she continues to nurture the growth and development of students.

Josi Treleaven began twirling in her hometown of Milestone, and eventually continued her training in Regina. Like Jasmine, Josi competed at numerous national and international competitions during her career. She competed as an individual, pair partner and team member. In 2023, Josi began working as a registered nurse in Surgical ICU at the Regina General Hospital and continues to work there!

Both Jasmine and Josi agree that the true highlights of their athletic careers have been the incredible opportunities to travel the world and form lasting friendships with people from all corners of the globe. Being a part of a team – and training with a group of friends that were as dedicated and passionate about the same things as they were, proved to be extremely rewarding. 

Jasmine was originally part of the University of Regina Dance Team, where she, along with former teammate Kelsey Buettner, introduced baton in 2016 to the Canadian university stage. It was suggested by her coach at the time to try out for the Rider Cheer team. She initially reached out to the coach about incorporating baton, only to be met with resistance. Undeterred, she decided to bring baton to the auditions anyway, and they immediately fell in love with the sport. At the time, many people working with the Riders hadn’t heard of baton twirling, nor had it been considered for the cheer team. In 2019, however, the cheer team coach officially added baton as a feature moment. Since then, baton twirling has become a highlight at Rider games. Josi joined the Rider Cheer Team in 2022. Together they host “Little Rider Cheer Day” where kids from throughout the province have the opportunity to try baton twirling and perform at a home game.

Today, you can see Jasmine and Josi showcasing baton at every home game. Their performances have had significant impacts both on and off the field. The reception from fans in Saskatchewan, as well as across provinces, and the CFL has been very positive. They often have people asking where they can sign up their child or themselves for baton lessons. Jasmine, Josi…..the twirling community is extremely proud of the work you have done to bring baton twirling to this stage and the many benefits your presence has resulted in. To that end, on behalf of the Saskatchewan Baton Twirling Association, we are very proud to present both of you with a SBTA “Community Impact Award”.