WDSA

WDSA stands for Wheelchair Dance Sports Association.

The Wheelchair Dance Sport Association (UK) was established in 2006 by Sue Cummings and Ruth Boyne and offers opportunities, for those who would otherwise be excluded from dancing.  The aim of the WDSA is to promote and develop wheelchair dancing as a sport and leisure activity across the country and to raise the standard of coaching and competition in the UK and internationally at all levels.  Wheelchair Dance Sport is accessible to anyone with no boundaries in term of age limit or level of ability.

The sport allows wheelchair dancers to perform together (duo-dances) or with able-bodied performers (combi-dances), if necessary being assisted by a pusher or with any aids. Dances include Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot and Quickstep and Latin dances such as the Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive, and Group dances.

There is also a structured approach to training, with regular training courses for those interested in becoming Instructors of Wheelchair Dance, and training for those interested in competing.  If you wish to learn about Natasha’s experience on the training course read her feedback to the group here.  Feedback to the group on the Instructor Training

WDSA membership

Members have the opportunity to become a member of the WDSA and then train in preparation for entering a national competition organised by the Wheelchair Dance Sports Association (WDSA).  There is an annual membership fee for this which is due on 1st September.

The competition takes place annually and is usually held in a different county each time.  Additionally, there are entry fees payable for dancers and anyone accompanying them.

Competition information

The competition takes place annually.

There are entry fees payable for dancers and anyone accompanying them.

Dancers are classed as debutantes until they reach a particular standard.

Dancers are grouped into appropriate classes according to their level of ability/upper arm strength.  These would be either class 1 or class 2.

Those in powered chairs are normally in class 1.

Duo Dances can be a combination of class 1 and class 2.  Combi dance must be either one class or the other.

Dancers are either grouped as combi couples, where one standing partner dances with a wheelchair user; or as duo couple, where two wheelchair users dance together.

As a debutante you would perform an English Waltz, Samba and Quickstep with a partner.

Group dances may be performed.  This can be all duo, all combi or a mixed ability team.  The majority of the team must be wheelchair users.  The music can be chosen by the group and must be a minimum of 3 minutes with maximum of 5 minutes.

The judging

Judges will be placed strategically around the dance floor so the dancers can be watched from all angles.  It is important that when the music stops (after 1.5mins that dancers turn and present themselves to the audience and then bow to show that they have finished.

When entering the dance floor find yourself an appropriate space for yourself and partner.   There are likely to be several heats so you may not dance with all your group members within the same class at the same time.  It is important therefore to listen out for your number that is allocated to you.  When this is called you must go onto the dance floor.

During training you will be taught the dance moves to the waltz, quickstep and samba but you will find that you practice it to different music each time.  This is to prepare you for this at the competition.

Signing up to take part

Entry fees and forms will be provided at the appropriate time.

Membership Fees for the WDSA will be taken in July/August.

What to wear

Debutantes are not required to dress in dance costumes.  Wear something really smart as if dressing for an evening out or a party.  Couples are expected to wear the same colour so they are coordinated.  If participating in a team dance then the group will be required to dress the same i.e. wearing our Isca Wheelchair Dance tops.

Further information for Members can be downloaded here:



 

 

 

 

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