BYU draws dancers across the country for U.S. National Amateur Dancesport Championship

Ballroom dancers from across the country gathered at Brigham Young University last week for the U.S. National Amateur DanceSport Championships, bringing high-energy performances and intense competition to campus.

The multi-day competition featured dancers of various ages and skill levels competing in ballroom and Latin styles. For many BYU students, the event offered an opportunity to perform on a national stage while representing one of the universitys most well-known programs.

BYU student Lincoln Gardner, who has been dancing for more than a decade, said ballroom has played a major role in his personal growth.

Gardner, who started dancing at age 11 in Idaho Falls, said the discipline required for the art form helps dancers develop skills beyond the dance floor.

I think the thing I like most about it is the character development that happens because of it, Gardner said. Its an art form that requires consistent repetition and practice to get better and better.

Gardner competed in Gold Bar Latin during the competition and said the event was particularly meaningful because it may have been his final competition.

It was cool to make the final and reflect back on my time as a dancer and as a competitor, Gardner said. Im grateful for it. Its been fun.

For other competitors, the national event represents both a challenge and a motivation to improve.

BYU dancer, Elijah Engstrom, said he began ballroom dancing after enrolling at BYU, inspired in part by his parents, who met while dancing on the universitys ballroom tour team.

Im a very competitive person, Engstrom said. Being the biggest competition in the United States during the year, it was natural for me to want to push myself and compete against the best.

Engstrom said the atmosphere of the competition creates an exciting experience for dancers and spectators alike.

The energy at the national dancesport championships is just insane, Engstrom said. You have the best dancers in the world come and gather in one spot.

Competitors often spend dozens of hours each week practicing technique, choreography and partnering skills in preparation for major events.

Engstrom said dancers must also learn to manage expectations and focus on performing their best.

Youve done everything you can do to prepare, Engstrom said. You just have to dance your heart out.

BYU dancer Kallie Bitton said music is one of her favorite parts of ballroom dancing, particularly in Latin styles.

The music is so good, Bitton said. You put a good samba song on, and no one can sit there and not dance.

Bitton added that national competitions can be emotionally challenging because dancers dedicate significant time and effort preparing for the event.

Leading up to nationals, you spend most of your time practicing, Bitton said. It becomes something you really care about.

Despite the challenges, competitors said the experience of performing and improving keeps them coming back to the dance floor.