Finding a partner for amateur competition was relatively easy for me, there were few choices but I believe the partnership would have been a good one regardless of the range of choices. When we formed the partnership we had only one goal, simply to tryout the experience. The dynamics of our partnership have been fascinating to say the least. She is 20 years my junior, definitely more skilled and has greater potential than do I. However, it has been working quite well.

We began training to compete in International Latin events at an Intermediate Bronze proficiency that includes cha cha and jive. However, we trained in rumba as well anticipating that we would compete at the full bronze level as well. We also expected to compete within the senior age division, as my age meets the eligibility requirement. We both had some limited experience (a couple of competitions) dancing with our instructors in the Pro-Am division. Our training began with my instructor as our coach.

As it turns out, there are remarkably few couples in my age category who are latin dancers. We managed quite well in the competitions we entered so we decided to get a bit more serious. To get more competition we are now planning to enter both senior and adult age divisions. Well that seem to make our coach extremely happy. Suddenly, the technique demands escalated dramatically and to improve our technique we are taking coaching from both my instructor and hers.

Competition instruction and coaching can become intense. As individual and partnership skills develop the demands become more difficult to meet. Every movement is scrutinized. Foot placement, leg position, body position, head, arms fingers and toes; everything must be in the correct place at the correct time. Absolute control is the goal however unachievable that may be. Correction and repetition are unrelenting. The partnership must be able to withstand the pressure.

Not all the floor time for a partnership will include a coach. Practice is essential to growth. During practice each partner must be able to self-assess and correct as well as constructively criticize one’s partner. The further the partnership develops the more individuality must give way to the success of the partnership. Bruised egos cannot be indulged.