Here's something: I've had drum lessons for 8 years or something now and I guess I'm not that bad and I still can't spin drumsticks. Stick control is extremely important, but spinning isn't part of good stick control as far as I'm concerned.
I say: Focus on the important things instead, like keeping time and playing precisely. Spinning the stick actually looks pretty stupid too, if you ask me. Learn some independency instead (or whatever the hell it's called when you play 4 different rhythms with each limb*), that's a lot more impressive.
If you want to show off, learn how to play a good rock rhythm using only one arm and use the spare arm to drink beer while playing. You have to make up for the rather easy hand parts with complicated foot work in order to show off properly though.
*= In German, it's called "Unabhängigkeit" which translates to independency. I'm guessing here.
I am one of 4 percussionists in my jazz class, except the only percussion the other 3 know is kit. Basically their idea of jazz is rock beats except with more ride cymbal and when they aren't doing that, they are spinning their sticks around wondering what the hell a "buzz roll" is.
Tips? Don't be them.
Definitely.
Here's another thing: Drums are all about variety. Even if you would never play that music yourself, learn latin and jazz rhythms. Especially jazz stuff can be easily incorporated into rock things and it sounds good. It works with latin rhythms too of course, but it's harder.
I can't say that often enough though: Learn stick control, improve your drumming technique. This is what counts. Practice drum rolls until you can play them flawlessly at every speed and volume, practice easy rhythms and try to play them as precisely as possible, this kind of stuff. It's boring but it will eventually pay off.