About Us

The Oregon State DanceSport team (OSDS) is a university organization dedicated to enriching the existing dance scene at OSU and in the surrounding community. OSDS holds weekly practice, performs in competitions and showcases, and hosts events throughout the academic year. We aim to create a warm and welcome environment to dancers of all levels, from those taking their first dance steps to those preparing to step onto the competition floor. All are welcome to join us! Neither a partner or previous experience is required, and neither is a competitive spirit! Social dancers who wish to hone their craft are more than welcome to join.

What is DanceSport?

DanceSport was once referred to as competitive ballroom dancing, and was renamed to reflect the demanding physical nature of high-level competition. Recognized as a sport by the International Olympic Committee, dancesport provides the opportunity to hone both the athletic body and the artistic mind through musical interpretation, choreographic programming, and from the nature of dance itself. DanceSport comprises of two styles -International and American- which are divided into four categories: International Standard, International Latin, American Smooth, and American Rhythm.

International Standard

International Standard -often abbreviated as Standard- refers to the five international ballroom dances: Slow Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Slow Foxtrot, and Quickstep. Standard is unique in that the couple is expected to maintain a consistent hold or "frame" throughout the dance, breaking only to bow at the end of the music.