Ang KNIGHTtime ni Stephen Knight, Bise Presidente sa FADS ug Executive Dance Director
A few years ago, at Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ 70th Anniversary celebration during National Dance Championships in Orlando FL, it hit me that we have so many new and talented couples on the competitive dance floor! After I returned home from the competition, I thought it would be a good time to familiarize our newer dancers, and remind our seasoned competitive dancers, what it takes to be a great Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ competitor.
- “Good Rehearsals”. This means working positively alongside your dance partner as a team, and not spending time dwelling about what either of you might have done wrong. Remember, people make mistakes and that is why we rehearse and practice. Treat your dance partner well, keep a sense of humor, and STAY POSITIVE – and you will reach your goals faster.
- A Super Support Team. Your support team may consist of the team at your studio, your dance coaches, your costume designers, a personal trainer, even friends or family members who motivate you in word and deed to keep moving forward, etc. Accept help from those around you who are vested in your success – because “it takes a village”.
- Great Grooming. Great grooming is so important because of the impression it makes on judges. Costuming can make or break a couple in the competition. Make sure that you invest some of your time and money into your appearance with top-notch costumes, makeup, hairstyles and manicures. It pays off in a grand way!
- Sportsmanship. In my opinion, the final thing that makes a great competitor is good sportsmanship. I have seen cases where couples acted inappropriately following the announcement of a result, and believe me it does not sit well with the judges. Do yourself a favor – act with grace and class on the dance floor, win or lose. If you need time to compose yourself, go up to your room or find a private space. There will always be winners and losers, but remember that the players and the results will change every time, so learn from your mistakes and move on. And always remember, that your goals should be to become good dancer, and a good person. That my friends, will take you a long way in the ballroom industry, and life in general.
Stephen Knight mao ang Bise Presidente & Executive Dance Director kauban si Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Nag-alagad usab siya ingon Dance Coach ug Regional Franchise Director alang sa FADS Wisconsin Region. Usa ka Pambansang Champion sa panahon sa iyang kompetisyon, si Stephen labi ka kilala sa iyang choreography, ug sa paghimo og daghang bahin sa Fred Astaire Dance Studios nga Silver Syllabus. Alang sa dugang nga kasayuran sa mga miyembro sa Fred Astaire Dance Studios International Dance Council, kontaka kami. Ug aron masugdan ang IMONG pagbiyahe sa sayaw, kontaka si Fred Astaire Dance Studios karon.