Welcome to the July issue of DanceSport Australia's eNewsletter.

As we move to the 2017 National Elections, it is important that all DSA Members, appreciate that DanceSport Australia is a democratic organisation. It is up to all Members to participate in this process.

This right to vote - for your representatives - is enshrined in the DSA Constitution. So please when you receive your voting material, consider thoughtfully, and return those slips to the returning address.

Read more

Our Marketing Team has been working overtime to collect and edit interesting subjects for you. In this issue we tell you about:

• The success of the Wollongong national championship
• Recreational rankings
• New developmental comps
• Part 2 of the 'What to wear' series
• How we want to increase competitor numbers
• Bonus Points for B and C grades
• Reminder for grants for Victorian Regional Competitors

Do you have a topic you want to read about? Feel free to contact the Team via info@dancesport.org.au and let us know.

DANCE Wollongong - What a wonderful event!

Fabulous feedback was received about this National Championship. The move from Canberra to Wollongong has been a real success!

Great venue

From the moment you entered the venue you were struck by the impressive floating disco ball. It was 3 metres in diameter and totally mesmerising!

Amazing lighting

One of the many delightful things about this event was the amazing lighting. It wasn't just restricted to the evening finals; competitors arriving in the typically drab hours of the morning felt special walking into such a beautifully-lit venue.

Sponsorship Mercedes

The generous sponsorship from Mercedes Benz - Wollongong helped with funding for set-up costs and audio visual via local business CMG AV

Media

WIN television were present and commented on the great attendance. A link to the TV news story is in our blog.

We can't wait to go back next year!

Read more

Recreational ranking now available!

Exciting news!

Recreational and Amateur competitors can now access their rankings across all styles and age groups!

Go to the p5000 Recreational ranking page to check it out now.

Getting beginners into new 'Development Competitions'

To attract new dancers we are trialling 'developmental' competitions that are:

• Free for spectators - as per amateur football, cricket and tennis
• Low cost
• Simpler - all event administration is online
• Shorter (4 to 6 hours)

We understand families are busier these days and budgets are tighter. In many families, both parents work full-time; their weekends are crammed with activities and they do not have a whole day to spend at a sporting event.

With free admission and shorter durations, family and friends can attend and support their loved ones.

For more

The Right Stuff to Wear: What about Recreational Division?

Strictly ballroom - it's strictly recreational!

Entry Level competition

Recreational competitors are the future of DanceSport. To attract beginners to competition, recreational and medallist events have a simpler dress code in order to make it easier and more affordable. The main focus for Recreational dancers is:

• Technique
• Musicality
• Partnering Skills
• Posture
• Floorcraft

The syllabus is also simpler (and restricted), and can be found at this link

Dress code

The dress code is essentially no costumes or bling, i.e.:

• Daywear or practicewear
• No fringing, sequins, crystals, feathers
• Simple jewellery and hair

For more

Increasing crowd numbers at DSA competitions

Entry costs for competitors and spectators was successfully introduced at 2017 DANCE Wollongong. This is because:

• Running costs have increased significantly
• Higher admission prices = fewer spectators
• Fewer spectators = less profit and less atmosphere
• More regulations, i.e. security, OH&S, insurance
• Competitors end up paying more

Lower prices

Lower priced events attract a larger crowd and often sell out.

To attract more spectators, competitions need to be more affordable. Read more

Optional Bonus Points - B & C grades only

Needs and desires

Everybody's needs within DanceSport are different. Some dance to win - some to improve, and on it goes. Moving up to higher grades, achieved through accrual of sufficient points to elevate, does not suit everybody.

Uneven playing field

If you wish to elevate quickly, this can be difficult if you live far away from competitions and don't have the means to travel. Others don't wish to elevate quickly but do enjoy attending many events, thereby gaining bonus points.

All Bonus Points will be optional!

DSA have made some changes whereby the Competitor now decides if they take the Bonus Points for elevation. Change anytime via p5000 website.

Read more

Att : Victorians - $250 grants for regional competitors

Receive

• Coaching costs by registered DSA coaches
• Lectures/workshops recognised by DSV
• Travel costs to and from Melbourne (from country Victoria)
• Accommodation in Melbourne
• Entry ticket costs to registered competitions

How

Submit application form - download form

Save your receipts, submit January 2018

Restrictions

• Doesn't cover interstate or international travel
• $250 maximum per person - $3,000 for whole program
• For full year 2017

Why

Under DSV's strategy there is support available to regional competitors who travel to Melbourne for coaching and competitions.