The University of Birmingham dancesport team was formed in October 2009 and we have quickly established ourselves as a force to be reckoned with on the University competitive circuit. Being part of the dancesport team gives you the opportunity to dance against students from other universities and show off what you've learnt, culminating with the national student dance championships in Blackpool, the home of Ballroom dancing.
Why should I join the team?
Being part of the team is a lot of fun and it gives you the chance to meet student dancers from all over the country, dress up, put on a performance and who knows, you may even bring home a trophy or two. Team members also improve a lot quicker, learn more advanced routines and the art of floorcraft.
Am I good enough?
Probably! You only need to have been to a few lessons and be willing to do extra practice to work on technique and floorcraft and as there are several catagories, you will only compete against dancers at the same level as you. Most beginners enter their first competition after only four weeks of dancing. At beginner and novice level, you are only required to know four dances (Waltz, Quickstep, Cha and Jive) and your steps are restricted to the basic syllabus.
What do I do if I don't have a partner?
If you don't have a regular partner, the team captain will arrange someone for you to dance with, there's always somebody on the day who needs a partner.
What happens during a competition?
University competitions take place on weekends and last for the whole day. In general, we meet at the Guild at 7am-ish to get on the coach to take us to the competition venue, where doors normally open at around 9am. After a brief warm up, the morning starts with the ballroom rounds, separated by ability. The Latin American rounds follow this in the afternoon and there is a team match in the evening where you represent the University of Birmingham. A team is made up of four couples, each one dancing either a Waltz, Quickstep, Cha or Jive and the team's individual marks are amalgamated to provide an overall score which contributes to the whole team's ranking at the end of the day. At most competitions, there are also fun events, normally in the evening which add a quirky take on the traditional dances, such as the all male Rumba and the three girl Cha. You can also compete in Acro- and Non-acro Rock 'n' Roll and at the smaller, friendly competitions, there are usual open rounds where you can compete in the other dances against all abilities. The highlight of the day is normally a demonstration by a professional or an open amateur couple. The competition season normally runs from November - April but there are open competitions which run throughout the year.
Do I have to go to extra classes?
It is best to put in as much training as possible if you wish to join the team. As well as attending our structured competition classes, we have a open practice and a general dancing session which we recommend to consolidate what you have learnt in class and put together competitive routines with your partner. Our technique class is also recommended as accomplished technique will make you stand out against your competitors on the dance floor.
Sounds good. How do I get involved?
If you would like to join the team, please let Charlie, our Team Captain know and she will be able to answer any of your questions on the dancesport team.