Rules

2.1. INDIVIDUALS MAY JOIN SACWD ON THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
(a) Regardless of the date on which you register, your annual membership expires on 31 December.
(b) New and renewed membership begins the day payment is received.
(c) Membership applications may be submitted to the SACWD office via e-mail, handed in personally
or via the online registration on the SACWD website.
(d) A printable copy of the rules, contest procedures and registration forms are available to
registered members on the SACWD Website. Membership forms can also be obtained from the
SACWD Administrative Director.
(e) Active membership is required for each contestant to allow the SACWD to track their
competitive credentials for the current dance season and is used to determine South African
Open eligibility and to graduate them from one division to the next level.
(f) Active membership is mandatory for:
(i) All contestants and professionals before they compete in applicable SACWD events.
(ii) All contestants and professionals before they compete in any WCDF Event. (WCDF
MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED)

2.2 CLUBS/STUDIO’S/SCHOOLS MAY JOIN THE SACWD ON THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
(a) Regardless of the date the club registers, annual membership expires on 31 December.
(b) New and renewed membership begins the day payment is received.
(c) Membership applications may be submitted to the SACWD office via e-mail, handed in personally
or via the online registration on the SACWD website.
(d) SACWD Rules are available on the Website to be viewed by all registered members. Registered
Studio Heads can ask for a PDF hard copy of the Rules.
(e) Active membership is required for each Club. The SACWD Technical Director will send all
relevant music and step sheets to registered Clubs.
(f) Registered Clubs will also benefit from SACWD workshops, dance camps, training etc. (if any).
(g) Active membership is compulsory for all Clubs before their dancers may compete in any SACWD
Division at any SACWD Event.
(h) Studio Heads MUST compete under their own registered Studio’s name, they are not allowed to
compete under another Studio’s name. Only if competing in the Couples divisions will dancers
be allowed to dance with partners from other studios and under that Studio’s name.
(i) Registered dance schools’ information will be posted on the website. It serves as advertising for
your dance school.

3.1. LINE DANCE
(i) Lilt
These include dances like the East Coast Swing, Jive, Polka and Samba.
(ii) Smooth
These include dances like the Nightclub, Tango, Two Step and West Coast Swing.
(iii) Rise & Fall
These Include Dances like Foxtrot, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz and Waltz.
(iv) Cuban (Latin)
These include dances like the Cha-cha, Mambo, Rumba and Salsa.
(v) Funky
These include dances like Free Style, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Break dance and Modern.
(vi) Novelty
These include dances that cannot be placed in any of the categories above. These dances
comprise of a combination of movements from various styles.
At competitions, dances will always be offered in the sequence above. When a competition is held on
1 day, the sequence may differ a little.

3.2. COUPLES
(i) All Couples dance categories are Triple Two, Nightclub, Waltz, Cha-Cha, East Coast Swing, Two
Step and West Coast Swing.
(ii) When possible, these dances will be danced in this order at SACWD events.
(iii) At all WCDF events (SA Open), the dances will be danced in the order as indicated, see (i).

3.3. TEAMS
See under 6. Divisions Offered, D. Teams.

3.4. PARTNER PATTERN
See under 6. Divisions Offered, C. Pattern Partner.

3.5. WHEELCHAIR
See under 6. Divisions Offered, E. Wheelchair Division.

4.1 Classic Line Dance competitors will compete male against male and female against female.

4.2 Classic Open Line Dance competitors will compete male against female.

4.3 Choreography, Renegade, Modern Line and Wheelchair (special) divisions are of mixed gender (male
against female).

4.4 Classic Couples, Pro-Am and Pattern Partner partnerships are gender free. However, one dancer must
remain the leader (with number) and one remain the follower throughout the registered event

4.5 Pro-am dance pair are gender free, of which one must be a student dancing with an instructor.

4.6 A Team may have any combination of male and female competitors, except Couples teams who must
have partnerships of one leader and one follower.

6.1. LINE DANCE
(a) Social (WCDF division)
(i) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification competitors have to compete in all three (3) dances.
(ii) Entry Regulations
• This division is only for Social beginner line dancers who have never competed in a
Line dance Competition.
• Social Dancers may only dance in the Social Divisions and Modern Line Basic
Division. Male and Female dancers will not compete against each other (Female
against Female and Male against Male).
(iii) Graduation Criteria
Social dancers must be promoted to Classic Line Dance under the following criteria:
• When the majority of judges award a Gold Graduate for the dancer’s routines and
recommend promotion at any competition; AND
• When a Social Dancer achieves 1
st place at the SA Open or at a WCDF event, provided
that there are 3 or more dancers in the division.
• (iv) World Championships Requirements
• This division does not qualify for the World Championships.
• This division will not offer a ‘World Champion Title’ only ‘Social Division Champion’.
• All Social competitors MUST compete in Overall in at least one (1) International
event.
(v) Basic Dance Rules
• Social dancers must dance only full basic vanilla patterns.
• No variations are allowed.
(vi) Movement Limitations
• No Introduction steps are allowed.
(vii) Music
• Original music will be used.
• The Three (3) dances used at the World Championships will be as announced on the
WCDF website.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
(viii) Costumes
• No special costume requirements.
• Safe footwear is required.
(b) Modern Line Basic (WCDF division)
(i) Age Requirements
• Pre-Primary – All members aged 0 – 6 years.
• Primary – All members aged 6 – 9 years.
• Youth – All members aged 10 – 13 years.
• Teen – All members aged 14 – 17 years.
• Adult – All members aged 18 – 29 years.
• Crystal – All members aged 30 – 39 years.

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• Diamond – All members aged 40 – 49 years.
• Silver – All members aged 50 – 59 years.
• Gold – All members aged 60 – 69 years.
• Platinum – All members aged 70 + years.
(ii) Overall Requirements:
• For overall qualification competitors have to compete in all three (3) dances.
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is for competitors who compete in Social Line, Classic Newcomer and
Classic Novice Line and for anyone who just started to compete.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• Modern Line dance competitors who dance at an International Event (such as South
African Open) promote to Modern Line Ace on the following graduated scale which
depends on the total number of overall competitors:
Overall Competitors Entered and Competed
Competitor
overall Placing 3+ 20+ 30+ 40+ 50+
1 Promote Promote Promote Promote Promote
2 Promote Promote Promote Promote
3 Promote Promote Promote
4 Promote Promote
5 Promote
(v) World Championships Requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International Event in Modern
Line Basic, of which must be for overall.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Competitors have to start with a full basic pattern.
• Each rendition has to start with two (2) measures of basic (without variation from
the step description).
• Two (2) measures of music is eight (8) counts of 4/4 time music or six (6) counts of ¾
time music.
• Variations must follow the flow of the dance and are limited to two (2) measures of
music or less.
• Throughout the dance, each variation must be followed by two (2) measures of
basic pattern.
• If an ABC dance is used, a full vanilla pattern must be danced the first time the A, B
and C section is being danced.
• Each time an A, B or C section is repeated, you must dance the first eight (8) counts
in vanilla pattern.
(vii) Movement Limitations
• A stationary dancing introduction is allowed within the radius of one (1) single step
during the music, prior to the start of the dance.
• Vulgar dance movements are not allowed.
• Moves that include jetés and lying on the floor are not allowed.

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(viii) Music
• Music may be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
(ix) Costumes
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments or materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Dance shoes or sneakers are permitted.
(c) Modern Line ACE (WCDF division)
(i) Age Requirements
• Pre-Primary – All members aged 0 – 6 years.
• Primary – All members aged 6 – 9 years.
• Youth – All members aged 10 – 13 years.
• Teen – All members aged 14 – 17 years.
• Adult – All members aged 18 – 29 years.
• Crystal – All members aged 30 – 39 years.
• Diamond – All members aged 40 – 49 years.
• Silver – All members aged 50 – 59 years.
• Gold – All members aged 60 – 69 years.
• Platinum – All members aged 70 + years.
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification competitors have to compete in all three (3) dances.
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is for competitors who compete in Classic Intermediate, Advanced and
Star Line divisions.
• Those who graduate from Modern Line Basic must also dance in these Classic
divisions.
(iv) World Championships Requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International event in Modern
Line Ace, of which must be for overall.
(v) Basic Dance Rules
• Competitors have to start with a full basic pattern.
• Each rendition has to start with two (2) measures of basic (without variation from
the step description).
• Two (2) measures of music is eight (8) counts on 4/4 time music or six (6) counts on
¾ time music.
• Variations must follow the flow of the dance and are limited to two (2) measures of
music or less.
• Throughout the dance, each variation must be followed by two (2) measures of
basic pattern.
• If an ABC dance is used, a full vanilla pattern must be danced the first time the A, B
and C section is being danced.
• Each time an A, B or C section is repeated, you must dance the first two (2)
measures in vanilla pattern.

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(vi) Movement Limitations
• A stationary dancing introduction is allowed within the radius of one (1) single step
during the music, prior to the start of the dance.
• Vulgar dance movements are not allowed.
• Moves that include jetés and lying on the floor are not allowed.
(vii) Music
• Music may be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
(viii) Costumes
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments or materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
(d) Pre-Primary (SACWD Division)
(i) Age Requirements
• This division is only offered in the age category of 0-6 years old.
(ii) Entry Regulations
• No promotional points are allocated in this Division.
(iii) Graduation Criteria
• Graduation to Newcomer Primary division will occur when the dancer is turning 7.
(iv) World Championships Requirements
• This division does not qualify for the World Championships as it is a SACWD specific
Division.
(v) Basic Dance Rules
• Dancers in this Division must dance only full basic (vanilla) patterns.
• No variations are allowed.
(vi) Movement Limitations
• No introduction steps are allowed.
(vii) Music
• Original music will be used.
• Each Dance will be counted in.
• Dance music length: Two (2) Minutes.
(viii) Costumes
• Block heel Latin Shoes / Country Style boots or any safe shoes are allowed
(applicable to the dance style).
• Hats for gents are compulsory.
• No specific costume requirements.
(e) Classic Newcomer (WCDF Division)
(i) Age Requirements
• Please see tables under Age Requirements (p5).
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification competitors must compete in at least five (5) of the six (6)
dances.

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(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every Competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
(iii) Graduation Criteria
• SACWD operates according to a promotion points system. Dancers must achieve 75
points in order to advance to the Classic Line Novice division (p55).
• Line dance competitors who dance at an International Event (such as South African
Open or WCDF Championships) promote to the Novice division on the following
graduated scale which depends on the total number of overall competitors:
Overall Competitors Entered and Competed
Competitor
overall Placing 3+ 20+ 30+ 40+ 50+
1 Promote Promote Promote Promote Promote
2 Promote Promote Promote Promote
3 Promote Promote Promote
4 Promote Promote
5 Promote
(v) World Championship Requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International event in Classic
Newcomer Line, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Newcomer dancers must dance only full basic vanilla patterns.
• No variations are allowed.
(vii) Movement Limitations
• A stationary dancing introduction is allowed within the radius of one (1) single step
during the music prior to the start of the dance, as long as no full turn is performed.
(viii) Music
• Music may be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
(ix) Costumes
Newcomer Competitors:
• Costumes that should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Western boots compulsory (the heel may not be lower than 2.5 cm) or block heel
latin shoes / men’s latin shoes (Primary/Youth Sections or new dancers competing
for the first year). Only boots will be allowed for the WCDF Sanctioned events like
the SA Open and World Championships.
• Boots are not required in Funky/Novelty.
• Costumes must be country in appearance, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Western (Cowboy) hats for men, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Pantyhose and dance pants of any color for ladies, if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed
• Sparkly attachments on materials, metallic threads woven into the costume, crystals
or sequins are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Theatrical makeup will be allowed.

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(f) Classic Novice Line (WCDF division)
(i) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification, competitors have to compete in at least five (5) of the six
(6) dances.
(ii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is for competitors who graduate from Newcomer Classic Division and
for dance teachers.
• You may only dance in one (1) Skill Level across all line dance divisions (Classic,
Showcase and Modern).
(iii) World Championships Requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) international event in Classic
Novice Line, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• SACWD operates according to a promotion points system. Dancers must achieve
125 points in order to advance to the Classic Line Intermediate division (p55).
• Line dance competitors who dance at an International Event (such as South African
Open or WCDF Championships) promote to the Intermediate division on the
following graduated scale which depends on the total number of overall
competitors – must win (Promotion will only take place if a Novice dancer has, for
the second time, won at an International competition according to the criteria):
Overall Competitors Entered and Competed
Competitor
overall Placing 3+ 20+ 30+ 40+ 50+
1 Promote Promote Promote Promote Promote
2 Promote Promote Promote Promote
3 Promote Promote Promote
4 Promote Promote
5 Promote
(v) Basic Dance Rules
• Competitors have to start with a full basic pattern.
• Each rendition has to start with two (2) measures of basic (without variation from the
step description).
• Two (2) measures of music is eight (8) counts of 4/4 time music or six (6) counts of ¾
time music.
• Variations must follow the flow of the dance and are limited to two (2) measures of
music or less.
• Throughout the dance, each variation must be followed by two (2) measures of basic
pattern.
• If an ABC dance is used, a full vanilla pattern must be danced the first time the A,B
and C section is being danced.
• Each time an A, B or C section is repeated, you must dance the first two (2) measures
in vanilla pattern.
(vi) Movement Limitations
• A stationary dancing introduction is allowed within the radius of one (1) single step
during the music, prior to the start of the dance.

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• Moves that include jetés, acrobatics, slides, sitting or lying on the floor are not
allowed.
• Splits and sits to recover from splits are not allowed.
• Stationary balanced moves that rotate are not allowed.
• Platform turns or fans on an unbent knee are not permitted unless both feet maintain
floor contact.
• Dance movements that rotate because of a leg kick or swing are not permitted to
turn more than 360 degrees.
(vii) Music
• Music may be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
(viii) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Western (Cowboy) Boots compulsory for all dances except Funky/Novelty.
• Costumes must be country in appearance, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Cowboy hats compulsory for men except in Funky/Novelty.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments and materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Theatrical makeup will be allowed.
(g) Classic Intermediate Line (WCDF Division)
▪ Dancers who dance in this division must have been promoted from Novice (see promotions
p55).
▪ A dancer who applies to start dancing in Intermediate will be assessed and the application
will be reviewed by the SACWD Executive Director and Technical Director.
(i) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification competitors have to compete in at least five (5) of the six (6)
dances.
(ii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is for competitors who graduate from Novice Division and for
competitors in Modern Line Ace division.
• You may only dance in one (1) Skill Level across all line dance divisions (Classic,
Showcase and Modern).
(iii) Graduation Criteria
• After earning:
➢ Three (3) points in Classic Intermediate Line and/or Classic Intermediate
Open, one (1) of which must have three (3) or more competitors.
OR
➢ One (1) win for overall at the World Championships in Classic Intermediate
Line and/or Open Intermediate Line, you can graduate to Advanced.
➢ Intermediate dancers may NOT self-graduate into Advanced
➢ Intermediate dancers will accumulate WCDF Points at events where there are
only 1 or more competitors.
▪ 1 Competitor earns ¼ point.
▪ 2 Competitors earn ½ point.
▪ 3 or more Competitors earn 1 full point.

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➢ If a dancer wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) competitors,
they will earn one (1) full point.
➢ All competitors must win at least one (1) Overall where there are three (3) or
more competitors.
➢ Points will only be earned or determined by the number of competitors
dancing for overall.
➢ If there are competitors dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be
counted for the awarding of points.
➢ Graduation shall take place the day after the World Championships ends.
➢ Points can only be earned at WorldCDF sanctioned events.
(iv) World Championships Requirements.
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International event in Classic
Intermediate Line, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(v) Basic Dance Rules
• Competitors have to start with a full basic.
• Each rendition has to start with two (2) measures of basic (without variation from
the step description).
• Two (2) measures of music is eight (8) counts of 4/4 time music or six (6) counts of ¾
time music.
• Variations must follow the flow of the dance and are limited to two (2) measures of
music or less.
• Throughout the dance, each variation must be followed by two (2) measures of
basic.
• In an ABC or Tag Dance, each section of the dance; A, B, C or Tag, must begin with a
full basic before any variation may be performed.
(vi) Movement Limitations
• A stationary dancing introduction is allowed within the radius of one (1) single step
during the music prior to the start of the dance.
• Moves that include jetés, acrobatics, slides, sitting or lying on the floor are not
allowed.
• Splits or sits to recover from splits are not allowed.
• Stationary balanced moves that rotate are not allowed.
• Platform turns or fans on an unbent knee are not permitted unless both feet
maintain floor contact.
• Dance movements that rotate because of a leg kick or swing are not permitted to
turn more than 360 degrees.
(vii) Music
• Music may be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
(viii) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Cowboy boots compulsory for all dances, except Funky/Novelty.
• Costumes must be Country in appearance, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Cowboy hats compulsory for men, except for Funky/Novelty.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.

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(h) Classic Advanced Line (WCDF division)
• Dancers who dance in this division must have been promoted from Intermediate (see
promotions).
• New dancers cannot register in this Division.
(i) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification competitors have to compete in at least five (5) of the six (6)
dances.
(ii) Graduation Criteria
• Teen division can only graduate to Rising Star.
• Adult division can only graduate to Megastar.
• Crystal division can only graduate to Jewel.
• Diamond division can only graduate to Regal.
• Silver/Gold division can only graduate to Sapphire.
• Amber can only graduate to Premier.
Can only graduate after earning:
➢ Three (3) points in Classic Advanced Line/Open Advanced Line AND three (3) points
in Showcase Advanced Line, one (1) of which must have three (3) or more
competitors,
OR
➢ One (1) win for overall at the World Championships in both Classic Advanced Line
and Classic Advanced Open Line AND Showcase Advanced Line.
➢ Advanced Dancers will accumulate points at events where there are 1 or more
competitors as follows:
▪ 1 Competitor earns ¼ point.
▪ 2 Competitors earn ½ point.
▪ 3 or more Competitors earn 1 full point.
➢ If a dancer wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) competitors, they will
earn one (1) full point.
➢ All competitors must win at least one (1) Overall where there are three (3) or more
competitors in Classic Advanced Line and Classic Advanced Open Line and in
Showcase Advanced Line.
➢ Points will only be earned or determined by the number of competitors dancing for
overall.
➢ If there are competitors dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be counted
for the awarding of points.
• No new star dancer will be announced until they have been confirmed by
checking that their graduation points are correct. Only when the points are
verified will the graduation take place.
• Points can only be earned at WCDF Sanctioned Events (such as South African
Open or World Championships).
(iii) World Championships requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International event in Classic
Advanced Line, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(iv) Basic Dance Rules
• Competitors have to start with a full basic.
• Each rendition has to start with two (2) measures of basic (without variation from
the step description).

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• Two (2) measures of music is eight (8) counts of 4/4 time music or six (6) counts of ¾
time music.
• Variations must follow the flow of the dance and are limited to two (2) measures of
basic.
• In an ABC or Tag dance, each section of the dance; A, B, C or Tag must begin with a
full basic before any variation may be performed.
(v) Movement Limitations
• A stationary dancing introduction is allowed within the radius of one (1) single step
during the music prior to the start of the dance.
• Moves that include acrobatics, slides, sitting or lying on the floor are not allowed.
• Splits and sits to recover from splits are not allowed.
• Platform turns or fans on an unbent knee are not permitted unless both feet
maintain floor contact.
• Jetes with rotation are not allowed.
• Dance movements that rotate because of a leg kick or swing are not permitted to
turn more than 360 degrees.
(vi) Music
• Music may be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
(vii) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Dance boots compulsory for all dances except for Funky/Novelty.
• Costume mush be country in appearance, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Cowboy Hats are compulsory for men, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments and materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
(i) Intermediate Open Line (WCDF division)
(i) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification competitors have to compete in at least five (5) of the six (6)
dances.
(ii) Entry Regulations
• You need to compete in the mandatory Classic Intermediate Line before competing
in Classic Intermediate Open Line at every event.
• Male and Female will dance together.
(iii) Graduation Criteria
Can only graduate after earning:
➢ Three (3) points in Classic Intermediate Line and Classic Intermediate Open Line, one
(1) of which must have three (3) or more competitors,
OR
➢ One (1) win for overall at the World Championships in both Classic Intermediate Line
and/or Classic Intermediate Open Line, you can graduate to Advanced Line.

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➢ Intermediate Dancers will accumulate points at events where there are 1 or more
competitors as follows:
▪ 1 Competitor earns ¼ point.
▪ 2 Competitors earn ½ point.
▪ 3 or more Competitors earn 1 full point.
➢ If a dancer wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) competitors, they will
earn one (1) full point.
➢ All competitors must win at least one (1) Overall where there are three (3) or more
competitors in Classic Intermediate Line and Classic Intermediate Open Line.
➢ Points will only be earned or determined by the number of competitors dancing for
overall.
➢ If there are competitors dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be counted
for the awarding of points.
• Points can only be earned at WCDF Sanctioned Events (such as South African
Open or World Championships).
(iii) World Championships requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International event in Classic
Intermediate Open Line, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(iv) Basic Dance Rules
• Competitors have to start with a full basic.
• Each rendition has to start with two (2) measures of basic (without variation from
the step description).
• Two (2) measures of music is eight (8) counts of 4/4 time music or six (6) counts of ¾
time music.
• Variations must follow the flow of the dance and are limited to two (2) measures of
basic.
• In an ABC or Tag dance, each section of the dance; A, B, C or Tag must begin with a
full basic before any variation may be performed.
(v) Movement Limitations
• A stationary dancing introduction is allowed within the radius of one (1) single step
during the music prior to the start of the dance.
• Moves that include acrobatics, slides, sitting or lying on the floor are not allowed.
• Splits and sits to recover from splits are not allowed.
• Platform turns or fans on an unbent knee are not permitted unless both feet
maintain floor contact.
• Jetes with rotation are not allowed.
• Dance movements that rotate because of a leg kick or swing are not permitted to
turn more than 360 degrees.
(vi) Music
• Music may be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
(vii) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Dance boots compulsory for all dances except for Funky/Novelty.
• Costume mush be country in appearance, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Cowboy Hats are compulsory for men, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.

_____________________________________________________

• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments and materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
(j) Advanced Open Line (WCDF division)
(i) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification competitors have to compete in at least five (5) of the six (6)
dances.
(ii) Entry Regulations
• You need to compete in the mandatory Classic Advanced Line before competing in
Classic Advanced Open Line at every event.
• Male and Female will dance together.
(iii) Graduation Criteria
Can only graduate after earning:
➢ Three (3) points in Classic Advanced Line and Classic Advanced Open Line AND
Showcase Advanced , one (1) of which must have three (3) or more competitors,
OR
➢ One (1) win for overall at the World Championships in both Classic Advanced Line
and/or Classic Advanced Open Line AND Showcase Advanced Line, you can graduate
to Stars Line.
➢ Advanced Dancers will accumulate points at events where there are 1 or more
competitors as follows:
▪ 1 Competitor earns ¼ point.
▪ 2 Competitors earn ½ point.
▪ 3 or more Competitors earn 1 full point.
➢ If a dancer wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) competitors, they will
earn one (1) full point.
➢ All competitors must win at least one (1) Overall where there are three (3) or more
competitors in Classic Advanced Line and Classic Advanced Open Line AND in
Showcase Advanced Line.
➢ Points will only be earned or determined by the number of competitors dancing for
overall.
➢ If there are competitors dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be counted
for the awarding of points.
• Points can only be earned at WCDF Sanctioned Events (such as South African
Open or World Championships).
(iii) World Championships requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International event in Classic
Intermediate Open Line, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(iv) Basic Dance Rules
• Competitors have to start with a full basic.
• Each rendition has to start with two (2) measures of basic (without variation from
the step description).
• Two (2) measures of music is eight (8) counts of 4/4 time music or six (6) counts of ¾
time music.
• Variations must follow the flow of the dance and are limited to two (2) measures of
basic.

_____________________________________________________

• In an ABC or Tag dance, each section of the dance; A, B, C or Tag must begin with a
full basic before any variation may be performed.
(v) Movement Limitations
• A stationary dancing introduction is allowed within the radius of one (1) single step
during the music prior to the start of the dance.
• Moves that include acrobatics, slides, sitting or lying on the floor are not allowed.
• Splits and sits to recover from splits are not allowed.
• Platform turns or fans on an unbent knee are not permitted unless both feet
maintain floor contact.
• Jetes with rotation are not allowed.
• Dance movements that rotate because of a leg kick or swing are not permitted to
turn more than 360 degrees.
(vi) Music
• Music may be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
(vii) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Dance boots compulsory for all dances except for Funky/Novelty.
• Costume mush be country in appearance, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Cowboy Hats are compulsory for men, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments and materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
(k) Showcase Line (WCDF Division)
(i) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification competitors have to compete in at least five (5) of the six
dances.
• Intermediate Dancers will not earn promotional points in the Showcase Line
Division.
(ii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is for intermediate competitors and above.
(iii) Graduation Criteria
• Teen division can only graduate to Rising Star.
• Adult division can only graduate to Megastar.
• Crystal division can only graduate to Jewel.
• Diamond division can only graduate to Regal.
• Silver/Gold division can only graduate to Sapphire.
• Amber can only graduate to Premier.
Can only graduate after earning:
➢ Three (3) points in Classic Advanced Line and/or Classic Open Advanced Line AND
three (3) points in Showcase Advanced Line.
OR

_____________________________________________________

➢ One (1) win for overall the World Championships in both Classic Advanced Line
and/or Classic Open Advanced Line AND Showcase Advanced Line (with at least 3
competitors), you can graduate to Rising Star, Megastar, Jewel, Regal or Sapphire or
Premier.
➢ Advanced Dancers will accumulate points at events where there are only 1 or 2
competitors as follows:
▪ 1 Competitor earns ¼ point.
▪ 2 Competitors earn ½ point.
▪ 3 or more Competitors earn 1 full point.
➢ If a dancer wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) competitors, they will
earn one (1) full point.
➢ All competitors must win at least one (1) Overall where there are three (3) or more
competitors in Classic Advanced Line or Open Advanced Line and in Showcase
Advanced Line.
➢ Points will only be earned or determined by the number of competitors dancing for
overall.
➢ If there are competitors dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be counted
for the awarding of points.
• No new star dancer will be announced until they have been confirmed by
checking that their graduation points are correct. Only when the points are
verified will the graduation take place. Verification has to take place prior to
competing at the event where they can gain their final point.
• Points can only be earned at WCDF Sanctioned Events (such as South African
Open).
(iv) World Championships Requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International Event in Showcase
Advanced Line, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(v) Basic Dance Rules
• It should be a choreographed routine with the intention to interpret the rhythm,
music and lyrics.
• Competitors must dance repetitive patterns choreographed to the phrasing of the
music.
• The competitor may begin the routine in any area of their choosing on the dance
floor, as long as they do not interfere with the space of the other competitors.
• There will be no count in.
(vi) Movement Limitations
• Acrobatics and lying on the floor are not allowed.
(vii) Music
• The music will be pre-selected by the WCDF Music Board.
(viii) Costumes
• Cowboy boots compulsory for all dances except Funky/Novelty.
• Costumes must be country in appearance, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Cowboy Hats compulsory for all dances except Funky/Novelty.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed
• Glitter and sparkly attachments and materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.

_____________________________________________________

(l) Rising Star, Megastar, Jewel, Regal, Sapphire, Premier Line (WCDF Division)
(i) Overall requirements
• For overall qualification Rising Star, Megastar, Jewel, Regal, Sapphire and Premier
competitors have to compete in:
Two (2) Star Classic Dances-
➢ Dance A (A Smooth, Rise & Fall dance like Waltz or Nightclub),
➢ Dance B (A Rhythm dance like East Coast Swing, Polka or Cha-Cha),
Two (2) Showcase Dances –
➢ Dance C & Dance D,
One (1) Star Solo Spotlight Medley –
➢ Dance E.
(ii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• These divisions are for competitors who graduate from the Classic Advanced Line
and Showcase Line divisions.
(iii) Graduation Criteria
• All New Star dancers must complete one (1) full program within one (1) year of
graduating to that division to earn their status as a Star Dancer.
• Rising Star: In the year when they reach the age of 18, they will be credited with
three (3) points which will add to their qualifying points to the Megastar division. All
points will be restricted by the Eligibility and Eligibility Period Rule.
(iv) World Championships Requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International event in Classic Star
Line, one (1) of which must be a full program to include: two (2) Star Classic Dances
(Dance A & Dance B), plus two (2) Star Showcase dances (Dance C & Dance D), plus
one (1) Star Solo Spotlight Medley (Dance E) in order to qualify for Worlds.
• This rule only applies after Star Dancers have carried their status for one (1) full
year.
(v) Basic Dance Rules Star Classic Dance A & B
• Competitors have to start with a full basic.
• Each rendition has to start with two (2) measures of basic (without variation from
the step description).
• Two (2) measures of music is eight (8) counts of 4/4 time music or six (6) counts of
3/4 time music.
• Variations must follow the flow of the dance and are limited to two (2) measures of
music or less.
• Throughout the dance, each variation must be followed by two (2) measures of
basic.
• In an ABC or Tag dance, each section of the dance; A, B, C or Tag must begin with a
full basic before any variation may be performed.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules Star Showcase Dance C & D
• It should be a choreographed routine with the intention to interpret the rhythm,
music and lyrics.
• Competitors must dance repetitive patterns choreographed to the phrasing of the
music.
• The competitor may begin the routine in an area of their choice on the dance floor,
as long as they do not interfere with the space of the other competitors.

_____________________________________________________

• There will be no count in.
• Dances will rotate on an annual basis.
(vii) Basic Dance Rules Star Solo Spotlight Medley Dance E
• A Star Solo Spotlight Medley of four (4) minutes with a maximum of six (6) minutes,
which includes the total set-up and tear-down times, without BPM limitations.
• A category offered to Rising Star, Megastar, Jewel, Regal, Sapphire and Premier
which in a non-restricted medley of dance motions and music choreographed to the
competitor’s choice.
• There are no music or costume restrictions for the Star Solo Spotlight Medley.
• The competitor must not interact with any person or creature in the arena.
• The Star Solo Spotlight Medley will be judged the same as Teams, with three (3)
criteria on the judges’ ballot sheets: Technique, Presentation and Choreography.
 Be aware: We are a Country Western dance sport and you will be judged by our rules,
standards and expectations.
(viii) Movement Limitations Star Classic Dance A & B
• A stationary dancing introduction is allowed within the radius of one (1) single step
during the music prior to the count-in.
• No acrobatics, lying or sitting on the floor (except from recovering from splits) are
allowed.
• Pantomime, singing or acted themes are not allowed.
• Jumps and jetés are allowed.
(ix) Movement Limitations Star Showcase Dance C & D
• Acrobatics and aerials are not allowed.
(x) Movement Limitations Star Solo Spotlight Medley Dance E
• There are no movement restrictions in the Star Solo Spotlight Medley.
(xi) Music Star Classic Dance A & B
• The Music will be pre-selected by the WCDF Music Board.
• Music can be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance length: Two (2) minutes approx.
• Each dance may be counted in.
(xii) Music Star Showcase Dance C & D
• The Music will be pre-selected by the WCDF Music Board.
(xiii) Music Star Solo Spotlight Medley Dance E
• Music length: Four (4) minutes with a maximum of six (6) minutes, which includes
set-up and tear-down.
• A Star Solo Spotlight Medley program is without BPM limitations.
• There are no music restrictions to the self-selected music.
• Be aware: We are a Country Western dance sport and you will be judged by our
rules, standards and expectations.
• The Penalty for performances that do not meet the time requirement is last place.
• Your music is to be submitted with your registration/entry and a copy of your music
is to be available at competitions on CD / USB drive (Music Labelled with Name &
Division).
• Clocking begins when either set-up, the performance or the performance sound
begins, whichever comes first.
• Clocking ends when either tear-down, the performance or the performance sound
ends, whichever comes last (not including curtain calls).

_____________________________________________________

• Set-up and tear-down may be no longer than three (3) minutes each.
(xiv) Costumes Star Classic Dance A & B and Star Showcase Dance C & D
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Cowboy Boots compulsory in all dances, except Funky/Novelty.
• Cowboy Hats compulsory in all dances except Funky/Novelty.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies, if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition closes are not allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
(xv) Costumes Star Solo Spotlight Medley Dance E
• There are no costume restrictions.
(m) Renegade
(i) Age Requirements
Junior Youth 10-13
Junior Teen 14-17
Adult 18+
Diamond 40+
(ii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is for Novice competitors and above.
(iii) World Championship Requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International events in Renegade.
(iv) Basic Dance Rules
• Renegade is a spontaneous interpretation of the music in dance.
(v) Movement Limitations
• Acrobatics, lying on the floor and jetés which rotate are not allowed.
(vi) Music
• Renegade music will be previewed at the time that it will be danced.
• The Music will be played and then danced. This will make it easier for the judges to
determine who is truly interpreting the music without a practiced routine.
(vii) Costumes
• Cowboy boots compulsory.
• Costume must be country in appearance.
• Cowboy Hats for men compulsory.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments or materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
(n) Choreography
(i) Entry Regulations
• The choreographer and the person who wears the competitor number must be
registered members before they compete.
• The dance must not have been entered into any SACWD choreography competition
prior to the final date of our previous SA Championships.

_____________________________________________________

(ii) World Championships Requirements
• All competitors MUST compete in at least one (1) International Events in the
selected division of choreography.
(iii) Basic Dance Rules
• No BPM limitations
• There are 6 competitive divisions.
➢ Country Newcomer/Novice
➢ Country Intermediate/Advanced
➢ Non-Country Newcomer/Novice
➢ Non-Country Intermediate/Advanced
➢ Wheelchair
• If an original dance is performed by other dancers, the choreographer must
physically be present.
• Wheelchair dancers must enter and leave the floor whilst sitting in their wheelchair.
• Only the dance is judged, not the performers or their performance.
• With their contestant registration/entry, it is mandatory for choreographers to
provide a printed step description of the dance detailing:
➢ The steps sheet MUST be written in English.
➢ The details which must be included on the step sheet – can be requested from
Technical / Rules Director- by Studio Head.
➢ The basic pattern.
➢ Level of the dance.
➢ Number of counts.
➢ Number of walls.
➢ The motion of the dance.
➢ An ABC choreographer must provide the complete dance sequence with
counts for each section.
➢ A Tag dance entry should specify the location of the tag(s) within the music.
• The dance step description must be sent to the registration desk with the
registration/entry form.
• You WILL BE penalized if you do not comply with all of the above.
• Music must be sent with your entry/registration. A copy of your music on a labelled
(Name & Division) CD/USB drive must be available at competition.
(iv) Movement Limitations
• Acrobatics, lying, sitting and jetés which rotate are not allowed.
(v) Music
• Every choreography entry must be submitted with registration/competition entry
and a copy of the music must be available at competition on CD/USB drive (Labelled
Name & Division).
• Without exception, a form detaining the track and requirements must accompany
the music submission.
• It is the choreographer’s responsibility to check the lyrics of the music selected.
Penalties will be awarded for offensive and vulgar lyrics.
• The music for Choreography will be played for two (2) minutes.
(vi) Costumes
• Boots Compulsory for all dances, except Funky/Novelty.
• Costume must be country in appearance, except in Funky/Novelty.

_____________________________________________________

• Western Hats for men are compulsory for all dances except Funky/Novelty.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments or materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
 Choreography entries in Pre-Primary Division (SACWD Sections) may be considered for the
next year’s competition dances.

6.2. COUPLES
(a) Social Classic & Pro-Am
(i) Age Requirements
• Male and Female have separate categories (Pro-Am)
• Division:
➢ Junior Divisions: Division based on older aged partner. Both partners under
the age of 18.
➢ Combined Divisions: Teen/Adult (one partner within the teen age group, and
other within the Adult age division).
➢ Where there are a couple of different age groups (Adult and above), the
couple will compete under the younger age group.
➢ Adult Age-Restricted divisions: Both partners to be applicable to age division.
(ii) Overall Requirements
• All couples have to be registered members before they compete.
• To achieve an overall placement, you must dance in a minimum of three (3) dances
out of:
➢ Night Club
➢ Two Step
➢ Cha Cha
➢ East Coast Swing
➢ West Coast Swing
(iii) Entry Regulations
• This division is only for Social dancers who have never competed in a couples
competition.
• Social dancers may only dance in the Social Divisions.
• Social dancers may not enter the Classic Divisions which include: Renegade,
Choreography, Classic Teams.
• Division Couples – All couples may only dance in one division (Social, Newcomer, etc.).
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• The graduation criteria will be governed by the Event Director who will advise the
dancers of their criteria.
(v) World Championship Requirements
• These divisions do not qualify for the World Championships.
• These divisions will not offer a ‘World Champion’ title, only a ‘Social Division
Champion’ title.
• All Social Couple competitors MUST compete in Overall in at least one (1)
International Event.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules

_____________________________________________________

• Basic Timings:
(vii) Movements Limitations
• Starting position: Any connected position.
Basic Rule: Majority of movements to show basic timings as above (>50%).
• Moves not allowed: Lifts, rides, acrobatics, non-lead patterns, non-connected side by
side patterns (chase allowed in cha cha), partner drops (head below knee height),
kneeling, sitting, lying, splits.
(viii) Music
• Dance music Length: 1.5 minutes for Division and 1.5 minutes for Pro-Am.
• Non-country music can be used (music choice is between the DJ & Event Director).
• The music preview in couples/Pro-Am will be maximum of 30 seconds per dance.
• The music preview will be played one (1) time per scheduled shift.
• The exception will be at the World Championships where the music can be changed
between rounds.
(ix) Costumes
• No special costume requirements, but safe footwear is recommended.
• It is recommended that costumes are smart in appearance.
• All Pros must adhere to standard costume rules.
• Male Pros must wear a hat for all dances, except for West Coast Swing.
(b) Newcomer Classic / Pro-Am Couples
(i) Age Requirements
• Male and Female have separate categories (Pro-Am).
• Junior Divisions: Division based on older aged partner. Both partners not older than
17 years (Classic).
• Combined Division: Teen/Adult – one partner within the teen age group, and other
within the Adult age division (Classic).
• Where a couple is of different age groups (Adult and above), the couple will
compete under the younger age group (Classic).
• Adult Age-Restricted divisions: Both partners to be applicable to same age division
(Classic).
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification contestants must compete in:
➢ Waltz
➢ Two Step
➢ One (1) Swing (East Coast / West Coast)
➢ Two (2) Non-Swing (Triple Two, Polka, Night Club or Cha Cha)
➢ i.e. five (5) of the eight (8) dances.
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is for competitors who graduate from the Social/Social Pro-Am division
and for anyone who just started to compete.
• You may only dance in one (1) Skill level in Classic Couples division.
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (S QQS QQS QQS QQ)
Cha-Cha 1 2 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 OR 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
Two Step QQSS OR QQS QQS OR QQQQS S
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 OR 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8

_____________________________________________________

(iv) Graduation Criteria
• Graduation takes place after one (1) win for overall at an International Event (such
as South African Open) with three (3) or more couples / competitors (Pro-Am).
• Classic Newcomer: After one (1) win for overall at an International Event (such as
South African Open) with three (3) or more couples or one (1) win for overall at the
World championships, you have to graduate to Novice.
• Graduation for the top persons placed at the World Championships is based on the
number of overall competitors as follows:
➢ 1 Person / Couple graduates with 1-5 Competitors.
➢ 2 Persons / Couples graduate with 6-10 Competitors.
➢ 3 Persons / Couples graduate with 11-15 Competitors.
➢ 4 Persons / Couples graduate with 16-20 Competitors.
➢ 5 Persons / Couples graduate with 21+ Competitors.
• Graduation shall take place the day after the World Championships ends.
(v) World Championships Requirements
• Existing WCDF dancers MUST compete in at least one (1) WCDF events in this
division, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Basic Timings:
(vii) Movement Limitations
• Starting Position: One (1) of the six (6) closed positions (Closed, Right Parallel, Left
Parallel, Promenade, Reverse Promenade or Fan).
• Basic Rule: Must maintain basic timing except for one (1) partner (Leader in Pro-Am)
executing a foot change when moving between same foot as partner and opposite
foot as partner patterns.
• Moves not allowed: Lifts, rides, acrobatics, non-lead patterns, non-connected side
by side patterns (chase allowed in cha cha), turning partner on one (1) leg more
than one (1) turn, partner drops (head below knee height), partner leans, hops,
jumps, kneeling, sitting, lying, splits.
Triple Two Step 1,2 3&4 5&6
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (s qqs qqs qqs qq)
Polka 1 &2 3&4 5&6 7&8
Cha-Cha 1,2 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
Waltz 1 2 3 4 5 6
Two Step QQS S OR QQS QQS OR QQQQS S
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 or 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 or 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8

_____________________________________________________

(viii) Music
• Dance music length: 1.5 minutes for Classic and 1.5 Minutes for Pro-Am.
• In any session the DJ may select a maximum of four (4) out of the eight (8) dance
tracks to be non-country.
• The music preview will be a maximum of 30 seconds per dance.
• The music preview will be played one (1) time per scheduled shift.
• The exception will be at the World Championships where the music can be changed
between rounds.
(ix) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Costume must be country in appearance, except in West Coast Swing.
• Cowboy Hats for men in all dances, except West Coast Swing.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Props are not allowed
• In Pro-Am, Pros MUST adhere to the costume rules.
• Sparkly attachments or materials, crystals or sequins are not allowed, although shiny
material is allowed.
(c) Novice Classic / Pro-Am Couples
(i) Age Requirements
• Male and Female have separate categories (Pro-Am)
• Junior Divisions: Division based on older aged partner. Both partners not older than
17 years (Classic)
• Combined Division: Teen/Adult – one partner within the teen age group, and other
within the Adult age division (Classic)
• Where a couple is of different age groups (Adult and above), the couple will
compete under the younger age group (Classic).
• Adult Age-Restricted divisions: Both partners to be applicable to same age division
(Classic).
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification contestants must compete in:
➢ Waltz
➢ Two Step
➢ One (1) Swing (East Coast / West Coast)
➢ Two (2) Non-Swing (Triple Two, Polka, Night Club or Cha Cha)
➢ i.e. five (5) of the eight (8) dances
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• Novice is for dancers who graduate from Newcomer.
• Couples dance teachers may start in this division (Classic Novice Couples).
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• Classic Novice Couples
➢ After two (2) wins for overall at an International Event (such as South African
Open) with three (3) or more competitors or one (1) win for overall at the
World Championships, you have to graduate to Intermediate.
• Novice Pro-Am

_____________________________________________________

➢ Novice to Intermediate Graduation takes place after two (2) wins for overall
at an International event (such as South African Open) with three (3) or more
competitors.
➢ Graduation for the top persons placed at the World Championships is based
on the number of overall couples as follows:
➢ 1 Couple / Person Graduates with 1-5 Competitors.
➢ 2 Couples / Persons Graduate with 6-10 Competitors.
➢ 3 Couples / Persons Graduate with 11-15 Competitors.
➢ 4 Couples / Persons Graduate with 16-20 Competitors.
➢ 5 Couples / Persons Graduate with 21+ Competitors.
• Graduation shall take place the day after the World Championships ends.
(v) World Championships Requirements
• Existing WCDF dancers MUST compete in at least one (1) WCDF event in this
division, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Basic Timings:
(vii) Movement Limitations
• Starting position: In any connected position.
• Basic Rule: Must carry out a full 6 or 8 count basic as listed above in each phrase of
music (32 counts in all dances except Waltz, which is 24 counts).
• Moves not allowed: Lifts, rides, acrobatics, non-lead patterns, non-connected side
by side patterns (chase allowed in cha cha), turning partner on one (1) leg more
than one (1) turn, partner drops (head below knee height), sitting, lying, splits.
(viii) Music
• Dance music length: 1.5 mintes for Classic and 1.5 Minutes for Pro-Am.
• In any session the DJ may select a maximum of four (4) out of the eight (8) dance
tracks to be non-country.
• The music preview will be a maximum of 30 seconds per dance.
• The music preview will be played one (1) time per scheduled shift.
• The exception will be at the World Championships where the music can be changed
between rounds.
(ix) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Boots compulsory for all dances.
• Cowboy Hats for all gents, except in West Coast Swing.
• Costume must be country in appearance, except in West Coast Swing.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies, if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Props are not allowed.
• All Pros must strictly adhere to the costume rules.
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (S QQS QQS QQS QQ)
Cha-Cha 1 2 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 OR 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
Two Step QQS S OR QQS QQS OR QQQQS S
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 OR 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8

_____________________________________________________

(d) Intermediate Classic / Pro-Am Couples
(i) Age Requirements
• Male and Female have separate categories (Pro-Am).
• Junior Divisions: Division based on older aged partner. Both partners not older than
17 years (Classic).
• Combined Division: Teen/Adult – one partner within the teen age group, and other
within the Adult age division (Classic).
• Where a couple is of different age groups (Adult and above), the couple will
compete under the younger age group (Classic).
• Adult Age-Restricted divisions: Both partners to be applicable to same age division
(Classic).
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification contestants must compete in:
➢ Waltz
➢ Two Step
➢ One (1) Swing (East Coast / West Coast)
➢ Two (2) Non-Swing (Triple Two, Polka, Night Club or Cha Cha)
➢ i.e. five (5) of the eight (8) dances
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• Intermediate is for dancers who graduate from Novice Couples Divisions.
• You may only dance in one (1) Skill level in Couples Division.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• Intermediate Dancers may NOT self-graduate into Advanced.
• After earning:
• Three (3) points for overall Classic Intermediate Couples (or Classic Intermediate
Pro-Am), one (1) of which must have three (3) or more competitors
OR
• One (1) win for overall at the World Championships in Classic Intermediate Couples
(or Classic Intermediate Pro-Am), you can graduate into Advanced.
• Intermediate Dancers will accumulate points at events where there are only 1 or 2
competitors as follows:
• 1 Competitor earns ¼ point
• 2 Competitors earn ½ point
• 3 or more competitors earn 1 full point
• If a dancer wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) competitors, they will
earn one (1) full point.
• All competitors must win at least one (1) Overall where there are three (3) or more
competitors.
• Points will only be earned or determined by the number of competitors dancing for
overall.
• If there are competitors dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be counted
for the awarding of points.
• Points will only be earned at WCDF Sanctioned Events.
• Graduation for the top persons placed at the World Championships is based on the
number of overall competitors as follows:
➢ 1 Person / Couple graduates with 1-5 Competitors.
➢ 2 Persons / Couples graduate with 6-10 Competitors.
➢ 3 Persons / Couples graduate with 11-15 Competitors.

_____________________________________________________

➢ 4 Persons / Couples graduate with 16-20 Competitors.
➢ 5 Persons / Couples graduate with 21+ Competitors.
• Graduation will take place the day after the World Championships ends.
(v) World Championships Requirements
• Existing WCDF dancers MUST compete in at least one (1) WCDF event in Classic/ProAm Intermediate Couples, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Basic Timings:
(vii) Movement Limitations
• Starting position: In any connected position.
• Basic Rule: Must carry out a full 6 or 8 count basic as listed above in each phrase of
music (32 counts in all dances except Waltz, which is 24 counts).
• Moves not allowed: Lifts, rides, acrobatics, non-lead patterns, non-connected side
by side patterns (chase allowed in cha cha), turning partner on one (1) leg more
than one (1) turn, partner drops (head below knee height), sitting, lying, splits.
(viii) Music
• Dance music length: 1.5 minutes for Classic and 1.5 Minutes for Pro-Am.
• In any session the DJ may select a maximum of four (4) out of the eight (8) dance
tracks to be non-country.
• The music preview will be a maximum of 30 seconds per dance.
• The music preview will be played one (1) time per scheduled shift.
• The exception will be at the World Championships where the music can be changed
between rounds.
(ix) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Boots compulsory for all dances.
• Cowboy Hats for all gents, except in West Coast Swing.
• Costume must be country in appearance, except in West Coast Swing.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies, if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Props are not allowed.
• All Pro’s must strictly adhere to the costume rules.
(e) Advanced Classic / Pro-Am Couples
(i) Age Requirements
• Male and Female have separate categories (Pro-Am)
• Junior Divisions: Division based on older aged partner. Both partners not older than
17 years (Classic)
• Combined Division: Teen/Adult – one partner within the teen age group, and other
within the Adult age division (Classic)
• Where a couple is of different age groups (Adult and above), the couple will
compete under the younger age group (Classic).
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (S QQS QQS QQS QQ)
Cha-Cha 12 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 OR 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
Two Step QQS S OR QQS QQS OR QQQQS S
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 OR 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8

_____________________________________________________

• Adult Age-Restricted divisions: Both partners to be applicable to same age division
(Classic).
(ii) Overall Requirements
For overall qualification contestants must compete in:
• Waltz
• Two Step
• One (1) Swing (East Coast / West Coast)
• Two (2) Non-Swing (Triple Two, Polka, Night Club or Cha Cha)
• i.e. five (5) of the eight (8) dances
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• Advanced is only for dancers who graduate from Intermediate Couples/Pro-Am.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• After earning:
• Three (3) points in both Classic Advanced Couples or Classic Pro-Am Advanced AND
three (3) points in Showcase Advanced Couples or Showcase Pro-Am Advanced, one
(1) of which must have three (3) or more competitors
OR
• One (1) win for overall at the World Championships in both Classic Advanced
Couples or Classic Pro-Am Advanced AND Showcase Advanced Couples or Showcase
Pro-Am Advanced, you can graduate to Champions / Royal / Sovereign or for ProAm Dancers you can graduate to Supreme.
• Classic Advanced or Pro-Am Advanced Dancers will accumulate points at events
where there are only 1 or 2 competitors.
▪ 1 Dancer earns ¼ point.
▪ 2 Dancers earns ½ point.
▪ 3+ Dancers earns 1 full point.
• If a competitor wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) competitors, they
will earn one (1) full point.
• Points will only be earned or determined by the number of dancers competing for
overall.
• All competitors must win at least one (1) Overall in Classic Advanced Couples or
Classic Pro-Am Advanced and Showcase Advanced Couples / Showcase Pro-Am
Advanced where there are three (3) or more competitors.
• If there are competitors dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be counted
for the awarding of points.
• Graduation for the top persons / couples placed at the World Championships is
based on the number of overall couples as follows:
➢ 1 Couple / Person graduates with 1-5 competitors.
➢ 2 Couples / Persons graduate with 6-10 competitors.
➢ 3 Couples / Persons graduate with 11-15 competitors.
➢ 4 Couples / Persons graduate with 16-20 competitors.
➢ 5 Couples / Persons graduate with 21+ competitors.
• No new Star will be announced until they have been confirmed by checking their
graduation points are correct. Only when the points are verified will the graduation
take place.
• Verification has to be done prior to competing at the event where they can gain
their final point, if this is not done, no graduation will take place.

_____________________________________________________

• Graduation into Champions / Royal / Sovereign / Supreme is not compulsory.
• Points can only be earned at WCDF Sanctioned Events (Such as South African Open).
(v) World Championships Requirements
• Existing WCDF dancers MUST compete in at least one (1) WCDF events in their
division, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Basic Timings:
(vii) Movement Limitations
• Starting Position: In any connected position.
• Basic Rule: Must carry out a full 6 or 8 count basic as listed above in each phrase of
music (32 counts in all dances except Waltz, which is 24 counts.
• Moves not allowed: Lifts, rides, acrobatics, non-lead patterns, non-connected side
by side patterns (chase allowed in cha cha), turning partner on one (1) leg more
than one (1) turn, partner drops (head below knee height), sitting, lying, splits.
(viii) Music
• Dance music length: 1.5 Minutes for Classic and 1.5 Minutes for Pro-Am.
• In any session the DJ may select a maximum of four (4) out of the eight (8) dance
tracks to be non-country.
• The music preview will be a maximum of 30 seconds per dance.
• The music preview will be played one (1) time per scheduled shift.
• The exception will be at the World Championships where the music can be changed
between rounds.
(ix) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Boots compulsory for all dances.
• Western Hats for all gents, except in West Coast Swing.
• Costume must be country in appearance, except in West Coast Swing.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies, if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Props are not allowed.
• All Pro’s must strictly adhere to the costume rules.
(f) Showcase Classic / Pro-Am Couples
(i) Age Requirements
• Junior division: Both partners between 14-17 years old (Jr. Teen)
• Adult Age-Restricted Divisions: Both partners within applicable division (Adult,
Crystal or Diamond).
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (S QQS QQS QQS QQ)
Cha-Cha 1 2 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 OR 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
Two Step QQS S OR QQS QQS OR QQQQS S
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 OR 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8

_____________________________________________________

(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification contestants must compete in:
➢ Waltz
➢ Two Step
➢ One (1) Swing (East Coast, West Coast)
➢ Two (2) Non-Swing (Triple Two, Polka, Night Club or Cha Cha)
➢ i.e. five (5) of the eight (8) dances
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is only for Intermediate and Advanced Showcase Couple Dancers.
• You may only dance in one (1) Skill level in Couple Divisions.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• Intermediate Dancers will not earn points in the Showcase Division.
• Teen Division cannot graduate to the Champions Division.
• The Showcase Advanced Dancer will earn points towards the Star Division.
• Adult Division can only graduate to Champions.
• Crystal Division can only graduate to Royal.
• Diamond/Silver/Gold Division can only graduate to Sovereign.
After earning:
• Three (3) points in both Showcase Advanced Couples and three (3) points in Classic
Advanced couples, one (1) of which must have three (3) or more competitors.
OR
• One (1) win for overall at the World Championships in both Classic Advanced
Couples and Showcase Advanced Couples, you can graduate to
Champions/Royal/Sovereign.
• Advanced Couples will accumulate points at events where there are only 1 or 2
competitors.
• 1 Couple earns ¼ point.
• 2 Couples earns ½ point.
• 3+ Couples earns 1 full point.
• If a couple wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) couples, they will earn
one (1) full point.
• All Showcase Advanced Couples must win at least one (1) Overall where there are
three (3) or more couples in Showcase Advanced and in Classic Advanced Couples.
• Points will only be earned or determined by the number of couples dancing for
overall.
• If there are couples dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be counted for
the awarding of points.
• Graduation for the top couples placed at the World Championships is based on the
number of overall couples as follows:
➢ 1 Couple graduates when 1-5 Couples compete.
➢ 2 Couples graduate when 6-10 Couples compete.
➢ 3 Couples graduate when 11-15 Couples compete.
➢ 4 Couples graduate when 16-20 Couples compete.
➢ 5 Couples graduate when 21+ Couples compete.
• Points can only be earned at WCDF Sanctioned Events (such as South African Open).
• Graduation shall take place the day after the World Championships ends.
• Graduation into Champions/Royal/Sovereign Division is not compulsory.

_____________________________________________________

• No new Champion will be announced until they have been confirmed by checking
their graduation points are correct, only when the points are verified will the
graduation take place.
• Verification has to take place prior to competing at the event where they can gain
their final point, if this is not done, no graduation will take place.
(v) World Championships Requirements
• Existing WCDF dancers MUST compete in at least one (1) WCDF events in their
division, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• It should be a choreographed routine with the intention to interpret the rhythm,
music and lyrics.
• Couples must dance patterns choreographed to the phrasing of the music.
• The couple may begin the routine in an area of their choice on the dance floor, as
long as they do not interfere with the space of the other competitors.
• Basic Timings:
• Movement Limitations.
• Starting position: In any position (does not have to be connected).
• Basic Rule: Keep character of dance.
• Moves not allowed: Lying and Lifts where all of partner’s body is raised above the
waist of the supporting partner.
(viii) Music
• The music will be pre-selected by the WCDF Music Board.
• The showcase music will be a minimum of 1.5 minutes and a maximum of 2 minutes
long.
(ix) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Cowboy boots compulsory.
• Costume must be country in appearance, except in West Coast Swing.
• Cowboy Hats compulsory for men, except in West Coast Swing.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
(g) Classic Stars (Champion / Royal / Sovereign)
(i) Age Requirements
• Adult age restrictions require both partners to be applicable to the division:
• Champion Couples – 18+
• Royal Couples – 30+
• Sovereign Couples- 40+
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification Champion, Royal and Sovereign Couple competitors MUST
compete in Two (2) Star Classic Dances:
➢ Dance A (a Smooth / Rise & Fall dance like Waltz or Nightclub)
➢ Dance B (a Rhythm dance like East Coast, Polka or Cha Cha)
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (S QQS QQS QQS QQ)
Cha-Cha 1 2 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 OR 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
Two Step QQS S OR QQS QQS OR QQQQS S
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 OR 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8

_____________________________________________________

➢ Two (2) Star Showcase Dances – Dance C and Dance D
➢ One (1) Champion Star Spotlight Medley – Dance E.
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• These divisions are for couples who graduate from the Classic Advanced Couples
and Showcase Advanced Couples divisions.
• All division couples – All couples may only dance in one division.
• The Star qualification is for the couple and not the individual dancer.
• When a Star couple splits and a new partnership is formed, the new couple must
compete in the division of the lower dancer and gain the required points in the
Classic Advanced and Showcase Advanced Couple division.
• If two (2) Stars form a new partnership, they have the option to dance one division
lower.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• This is considered the Top Division in Classic Couples Dance.
• All New Star couples must complete one (1) full program within one (1) year of
graduating to that division to earn their status as a Star Couple.
(v) World Championships Requirements
• All couples must compete in at least one (1) International events in Star Couples,
one (1) of which must be a full program (all 5 Dances), in order to qualify for the
World Championships.
• This rule only applies after Star dancers have carried their status for one (1) full year.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules Champion Star Classic Dance A & B
• Basic Timings:
(vii) Basic Dance Rules Champion Star Showcase Dance C & D
• It should be a choreographed routine with the intention to interpret the rhythm,
music and lyrics.
• The couple may begin the routine in an area of their choice on the dance floor, as
long as they do not interfere with the space of the other competitors.
• Dances will rotate every two (2) years.
(viii) Basic Dance Rules Champion Star Spotlight Medley Dance E
• A Champion Star Spotlight Medley of four (4) minutes with a maximum of six (6)
minutes, which includes set-up and tear-down, without BPM limitations.
• A category offered to Champion, Royal and Sovereign Star couples which is a nonrestricted medley of dance motions and music choreographed to the couple’s
choice.
• There are no Music or Costume restrictions for the Champion Star Spotlight Medley.
• The competitor must not interact with any person or creature in the arena.
• The Champion Star Spotlight Medley will be judged the same as Teams, with three
(3) criteria on the judges’ ballot sheets: Technique, Presentation and Choreography.
• Be aware: We are a Country Western dance sport and you will be judged by our
rules, standards and expectations.
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (s qqs qqs qqs qq)
Cha-Cha 1 2 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 or 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
Two Step qqs s or qqs qqs or qqqqs s
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 or 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8

_____________________________________________________

(ix) Movement Limitations Champion Star Classic Dance A & B
• Starting position: In any position (does not have to be connected).
• Keep character of dance.
• Moves not allowed: Lying, rides or lifts where all of the partner’s body is raised
above the waist of the supporting partner.
(x) Movement Limitations Champion Star Showcase Dance C & D
• Starting position: In any position (does not have to be connected).
• Keep character of dance.
• Moves not allowed: Lying, lifts where all of partner’s body is raised above the head
of the supporting partner.
(xi) Movement Limitations Champion Star Spotlight Medley Dance E
• There are no movement restrictions in the Champion Star Spotlight Medley.
(xii) Music Champion Star Classic Dance A & B
• The music will be selected by the WCDF Music Board.
• Music can be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance length: One and a half minutes (1.5).
(xiii) Music Champion Star Showcase Dance C & D
• The music will be pre-selected by the WCDF Music Board.
• The Star Showcase music will be a minimum of one and a half (1.5) and a maximum
of two (2) minutes long.
(xiv) Music Champion Star Spotlight Solo Medley Dance E
• Music length: Four (4) minutes with a maximum of six (6) minutes, including set-up
and tear-down.
• A Champion Star Spotlight Medley is without BPM limitations.
• There are no other music restrictions to the self-selected music.
• Be aware: We are a Country Western dance sport and you will be judged by our
rules, standards and expectations.
• The Penalty for performances that do not meet the time requirement is last place.
• Music is to be submitted with your registration / competition entry and a copy has
to be available at competition on a CD / USB stick (labelled with Name & Division)
• Brief recorded introductions and curtain calls are permitted.
• Clocking begins when either set-up, the performance or the performance sound
begins, whichever comes first.
• Clocking ends when either the tear-down, the performance or the performance
sound ends, whichever comes last (excluding curtain calls).
• A dance script is not required.
(xv) Costumes Champion Star Classic Dance A & B & Champion Star Showcase Dance C & D
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Cowboy boots compulsory.
• Costume must be Country in appearance except for West Coast Swing.
• Cowboy hats compulsory for men in all dances, except West Coast Swing.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments or materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.

_____________________________________________________

(xvi) Costumes Champion Star Spotlight Medley Dance E
• There are no costume restrictions.
(h) Pro-Pro
(i) Age Requirements
• Male And Female have Separate Categories.
• Adult Age-Restricted Division (Pro-Pro – 18+ Only for Country and Western couples
Instructors)
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification contestants must compete in:
➢ Waltz
➢ Two Step
➢ One (1) Swing (East Coast Swing / West Coast Swing)
➢ Two (2) Non-Swing (Triple Two Step, Polka, Night Club or Cha Cha)
➢ i.e. five (5) of the eight (8) dances.
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• Pro-Pro is for both Instructors.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• After earning
➢ Three (3) points in both Classic Pro-Pro and three (3) points in Showcase ProPro, one (1) of which must have three (3) or more competitors.
OR
➢ One (1) win for overall at the World Championships in both Classic Pro-Pro
and Showcase Pro-Pro, you can graduate to Supreme.
➢ Pro-Pro dancers will accumulate points at events where there are only 1 or 2
competitors.
▪ 1 Dancer earns ¼ point.
▪ 2 Dancers earn ½ point.
▪ 3+ Dancers earn 1 full point.
➢ If a dancer wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) dancers, they
will earn one (1) full point.
➢ All dancers must win at least one (1) Overall where there are three (3) or
more competitors in both Classic Pro-Pro and in Showcase Pro-Pro.
• Points will only be earned or determined by the number of dancers competing for
overall.
• If there are dancers dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be counted for
the awarding of points.
• No new Star Dancer will be announced until they have been confirmed by checking
their graduation points are correct. Only when the points are verified will the
graduation take place.
• Verification has to happen prior to competing at the event where they can gain their
final point, if this is not done, no graduation will take place.
• Graduation for the top dancers placed at the World Championships is based on the
number of overall dancers as follows:
▪ 1 Competitor graduates with 1-5 Pro-Pro.
▪ 2 Competitors graduate with 6-10 Pro-Pro.

_____________________________________________________

▪ 3 Competitors graduate with 11-15 Pro-Pro.
▪ 4 Competitors graduate with 16-20 Pro-Pro.
▪ 5 Competitors graduate with 21+ Pro-Pro.
• Graduation shall take place the day after the World Championships ends.
• Graduation into Supreme is not compulsory.
(v) World Championships Requirements
• Existing WCDF dancers MUST compete in at least one (1) WCDF events in Classic
Pro-Pro, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Basic Timings:
(vii) Movement Limitations
• Starting position: In any connected position.
• Basic Rule: Must carry out a full 6 or 8 count basic as listed above in each phrase of
music (32 counts in all dances except Waltz which is 24 counts).
• Moves not allowed: Lifts, rides, acrobatics, non-lead patterns, non-connected side
by side patterns (chase allowed in cha cha), turning partner on one (1) leg more
than one (1) turn, partner drops (head below knee height), sitting, lying, splits.
(viii) Music
• Dance music length: 1.5 minutes.
• In any session the DJ may select a maximum of four (4) out of the eight (8) dance
tracks to be non-country.
• The music preview will be a maximum of 30 seconds per dance.
• The music preview will be played once (1) time per scheduled shift.
• The exception will be at the World Championships where the music can be changed
between rounds.
(ix) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Costume must be country in appearance, except in West Coast Swing.
• Country hat compulsory for men for all dances, except in West Coast Swing.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Props are not allowed.
(i) Showcase Pro-Am and Pro-Pro
(i) Age Requirements
• Male and Female have separate categories.
• Pro-Pro (18+ years old) for couples instructors.
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification contestants must compete in:
➢ Waltz
➢ Two Step
➢ One (1) Swing (East Coast Swing / West Coast Swing)
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (S QQS QQS QQS QQ)
Cha-Cha 1 2 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 OR 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
Two Step QQS S OR QQS QQS OR QQQQS S
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 OR 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8

_____________________________________________________

➢ Two (2) Non-Swing (Triple Two Step, Polka, Night Club or Cha Cha)
➢ i.e. five (5) of the eight (8) dances.
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is for Intermediate and Advanced level Pro-Am and Pro-Pro dancers.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• After earning:
➢ Three (3) points in both Classic Pro-Am / Pro-Pro and three (3) points in
Showcase Pro-Am/Pro-Pro, one (1) of which must have three (3) or more
competitors.
OR
➢ One (1) win for overall at the World Championships in both Classic ProAm/Pro-Pro AND Showcase Pro-Am/Pro-Pro, you can graduate to Supreme.
➢ Showcase Pro-Am/Pro-Pro will accumulate points at events where there are
only 1 or 2 competitors.
➢ 1 Dancer earns ¼ point
➢ 2 Dancers earn ½ point
➢ 3+ Dancers earn 1 full point
➢ If a dancer wins two (2) events where there are only two (2) dancers they will
earn one (1) full point.
• All competitors must win at least one (1) Overall where there are three (3) or more
competitors in both Classic Pro-Am/Pro-Pro AND in Showcase Pro-Am/Pro-Pro.
• Points will only be earned or determined by the number of dancers competing for
overall.
• If there are dancers dancing less than five (5) dances, they will not be counted for
the awarding of points.
• Graduation for the top persons placed at the World Championships is based on the
number of overall dancers as follows:
➢ 1 Competitor graduates with 1-5 Pro-Am/Pro-Pro
➢ 2 Competitors graduate with 6-10 Pro-Am/Pro-Pro
➢ 3 Competitors graduate with 11-15 Pro-Am/Pro-Pro
➢ 4 Competitors graduate with 16-20 Pro-Am/Pro-Pro
➢ 5 Competitors graduate with 20+ Pro-Am/Pro-Pro
• Graduation shall take place the day after the World Championships ends.
• Graduation into Supreme is not compulsory.
• No New Star dancer will be announced until they have been confirmed, by checking
their graduation points are correct. Only when the points are verified will the
graduation take place.
• Verification has to happen prior to competing at the event where they can gain their
final point, if this is not done, no graduation will take place.
(v) World Championships Requirements
• Existing WCDF dancers MUST compete in at least one (1) WCDF events in Showcase
Pro-Am/Pro-Pro Advanced, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Basic Timings:

_____________________________________________________

(vii) Movement Limitations
• Starting position: In any position (does not have to be connected).
• Basic Rule: Keep character of dance.
• Moves not allowed in Showcase Dances: Lying and Lifts where all of partner’s body
is raised above the waist of the supporting partner.
(viii) Music
• Music is pre-selected by the WCDF Music Board.
• The Showcase music will be a minimum of one and a half (1.5) and a maximum of
two (2) minutes long.
• The music review will be a maximum of 30 seconds per dance.
• The music preview will be played one (1) time per scheduled shift.
(ix) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Costume must be country in appearance, except in West Coast Swing.
• Cowboy hat compulsory for men in all dances, except in West Coast Swing.
• Cowboy boots compulsory
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Props are not allowed.
(j) Pro-Am / Pro-Pro (Supreme)
(i) Age Requirements
• Adult Age-Restricted Divisions (Adult – Gold)
• Male and Female have separate categories.
• Pro-Pro (18+) for country and western couples’ instructors
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification Pro-Am / Pro-Pro Supreme competitors have to compete in:
▪ Two (2) Supreme Classic Dances
▪ Dance A (A Smooth / Rise & Fall dance like Waltz or Night Club)
▪ Dance B (A rhythm dance like East Coast Swing, Polka or Cha Cha)
▪ Two (2) Supreme Showcase Dances – Dance C and Dance D
▪ One (1) Supreme Spotlight Medley – Dance E
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is only for Pro-Am/Pro-Pro dancers who graduate from the Advanced
Classic Pro-Am/Pro-Pro and Showcase Pro-Am/Pro-Pro divisions.
• All divisions – all dancers may only dance in one division.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• All New Supreme dancers must complete one (1) full program within one (1) year of
graduating to that division to earn their status as a Supreme dancer.
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (S QQS QQS QQS QQ)
Cha-Cha 1 2 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 OR 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
Two Step QQS S OR QQS QQS OR QQQQS S
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 OR 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8
_____________________________________________________

(v) World Championships Requirement
• All dancers must compete in at least one (1) International events in this division, one
(1) of which must be a full program (of all 5 dances) in order to qualify for the World
Championships.
• This rule only applies after Supreme Dancers have carried their status for one (1) full
year.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules Supreme Classic Dance A & B
• Basic Timings:
(vii) Basic Dance Rules Supreme Showcase Dance C & D
• It should be a choreographed routine with the intention to interpret the rhythm,
music and lyrics.
• The dancer may begin the routine in an area of their choice on the dance floor, as
long as they do not interfere with the space of the other competitors.
• Dances will rotate every two years.
(viii) Basic Dance Rules Supreme Spotlight Medley Dance E
• A Supreme Spotlight Medley of four (4) minutes with a maximum of six (6) minutes,
which includes set-up and tear-down, without BPM limitations.
• A category offered to Supreme Pro-Am/Pro-Pro dancers which is a non-restricted
medley of dance motions and music choreographed to the dancer’s choice.
• There are no music or costume restrictions for the Supreme Spotlight Medley.
• The competitor must not interact with any person or creature in the arena.
• The Supreme Spotlight Medley will be judged the same as Teams with three (3)
criteria on the judges’ ballot sheets: Technique, Presentation and Choreography.
 Be aware: We are a Country Western dance sport and you will be judged by our rules,
standards and expectations.
(ix) Movement Limitations Supreme Classic Dance A & B
• Starting position: In any position (does not have to be connected).
• Keep character of dance.
• Moves not allowed: Lying, Rides or Lifts where all of partner’s body is raised
above the waist of the supporting partner.
(x) Movement Limitations Supreme Showcase Dance C & D
• Starting Position: In any position (does not have to be connected).
• Keep character of dance.
• Moves not allowed: Lying, Lifts where all of partner’s body is raised above the head
of the supporting partner.
(xi) Movement Limitations Supreme Spotlight Medley Dance E
• There are no movement restrictions in the Supreme Spotlight Medley
(xii) Music Supreme Classic Dance A & B
• The music will be pre-selected by the WCDF Music Board.
• Music can be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance length: 1.5 minutes.
Nightclub 1 2&3 4&5 6&7 8& (s qqs qqs qqs qq)
Cha-Cha 1 2 3 4&5 6 7 8&1
Two Step qqs s or qqs qqs or qqqqs s
East Coast Swing 1&2 3&4 5 6 or 1&2 34 5&6 7 8
West Coast Swing 1 2 3&4 5&6 or 1 2 3&4 5 6 7&8

_____________________________________________________

(xiii) Music Supreme Showcase Dance C & D
• The music will be pre-selected by the WCDF Music Board.
• The Supreme Showcase music will be a minimum of one and a half (1.5) and a
maximum of two (2) minutes long.
(xiv) Music Supreme Spotlight Medley Dance E
• Music length: Four (4) minutes with a maximum of six (6) minutes, including set-up
and tear-down.
• A Supreme Spotlight Medley program is without BPM limitations.
• There are no other music restrictions to the self-selected music.
• Be aware: We are a Country Western dance sport and you will be judged by our
rules, standards and expectations.
• Music has to be submitted with your registration/competition entry. A copy of your
music has to be available at competition on a Labelled (Name & Division) CD or USB
drive.
• The Penalty for performances that do not meet the time requirement is last place.
• Brief recorded introductions and curtain calls are permitted.
• Clocking begins when either the set-up, the performance or the performance sound
begins (whichever comes first).
• Clocking ends when either the tear-down, the performance or the performance
sound ends, whichever comes last (excluding curtain calls).
• A Dance script is not required.
• Set-up and tear-down may not be longer than three (3) minutes each.
(xv) Costumes Supreme Classic Dance A & B and Supreme Showcase Dance C & D
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Cowboy boots are compulsory.
• Costume must be country in appearance except for West Coast Swing.
• Cowboy Hats compulsory for men, except for West Coast Swing.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachments or materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
(xvi) Costumes Supreme Spotlight Medley Dance E
• There are no costume restrictions.
(k) Pro-Am Spotlight
(i) (a) Age Requirements
• Your age is the age you will be on the last day of the World Championships.
(b) Age categories
• Jr. Teen 14-17
Adult Age-Restricted Divisions:
• Adult – 18+
• Crystal – 30+
• Diamond – 40+
• Silver – 50+
• Gold – 60+
• Amber – 70+
• This is a Gender-Free division

_____________________________________________________

• Dancers can dance in several Adult Age-Restricted divisions in which they are age
eligible.
(ii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered WCDF member before they compete.
• This division is for Pro-Am Novice, Intermediate, Advanced and Showcase dancers.
• All divisions – all dancers may only dance in one division.
(iii) Graduation Criteria
• This is a non-graduating division.
(iv) World Championships Requirements
• All dancers must compete in at least three (3) International events in Spotlight ProAm in order to qualify for the World Championships.
(v) Basic Dance Rules
• A Spotlight Medley of two and a half (2.5) to four (4) minutes, which includes set up
and tear down, without BPM limitations.
• A category offered to Novice, Intermediate, Advanced and Showcase Pro-Am
dancers.
• A dance or non-restricted medley of dance motions and music choreographed to the
dancer’s choice which must be recognizable in pattern, rhythm, motion and
character. There are no music restrictions.
• There are no costume restrictions. The competitor must not interact with any
person or creature in the arena.
• The Spotlight Medley will be judged on three (3) criteria by the judges:
technique/presentation/choreography.
• Be aware: We are a Country Western dance sport and you will be judged by our
rules, standards and expectations.
(vi) Movement Limitations
• Starting position: In any position (does not have to be connected).
• Keep character of dance.
• Aerials are not allowed.
• Inverted lifts held on the vertical plane (rather than cartwheels that move through
the vertical plane) are not allowed.
• Throws transporting the partner through the air are not allowed.
• Two-beat rule: A partner may be lifted for up to two beats of music as long as any
part of the lifted partner’s head, torso, arm, or leg remains at or below the shoulder
level of the lifting partner and the lifted partner is not inverted.
• Medium lifts (with a part of the body at or below waist level) are allowed.
(vii) Music
• The Music will be self-selected with no restrictions.
• Music length: Two and a half (2.5) to four (4) minutes., including set up and tear
down. A Pro-Am Spotlight without BPM limitations.
• Music and artists that are identified by the following categories or descriptions are
considered acceptable for country dance competition music:
➢ Alternative Country
➢ Americana
➢ Bakersfield
➢ Bluegrass
➢ Classic Country

_____________________________________________________

➢ Contemporary Country
➢ Country
➢ Countrypolitan
➢ Country Pop
➢ Country Rock
➢ Hardcore Country
➢ Hillbilly o Honky Tonk
➢ Nashville
➢ Neo-traditionalist
➢ Outlaw Country
➢ Progressive Country
➢ Urban Country
➢ Western Swing
• Cha-Cha and West Coast Swing have roots outside the country music genre. Tejano
music is acceptable for Cha-Cha and Blues is acceptable for West Coast Swing but
only for these dances.
• Country music artists and songs may be identified by their presence on these
platforms or by membership in these organizations:
➢ Billboard or similar country music charts
➢ AM/FM/Satellite radio airplay on country stations
➢ iTunes, Spotify, internet-based music services in the country genre
➢ Record labels within the country genre
➢ Halls of Fame – national, state and regional
➢ Nashville songwriters performing their own material
➢ Nominations for country categories at Grammy’s and other music industry
awards
➢ Included on soundtracks for country-themed movies
➢ Performs/ed at the Grand Old Opry
• Pro-Am Spotlight dancers must hand in a copy of their resume, which includes the
total set up and tear down times, to the DJ for use by the judges, at least one (1)
hour before the competition begins or risk being scratched.
• This must show which motions and characters are being declared by the competitor.
• The Penalty for performances that do not meet the time requirement is last place.
• The USB stick should be labeled with your Name & Division.
• Brief recorded introductions and curtain calls are permitted.
• Clocking begins when either set up, the performance or the performance sound
begins, whichever comes first.
• Clocking ends when either tear down, the performance or the performance sound
ends, whichever comes last.
• Coming back on to the floor for a curtain-call is only allowed after leaving the floor
and clocking stops. A Music resume is still required.
• A dance script is not required.
(viii) Costumes
• There are no costume restrictions.
• Props are allowed and must be portable, not living, and delivered to and removed
from the performance arena only by the competitors.
• Performers and props must not touch the audience or staff.

6.3 PATTERN PARTNER
(a) Social Pattern Partner
(i) Age Requirements
• Adult Age restrictions require both partners to be applicable to the division
• Junior – 0-9
• Youth – 10-13
• Teen – 14-17
• Adult – 18+
• Adult Senior – 40+
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification couples must compete in all three (3) available dances.
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is only for Social beginner Pattern Partner dancers who have never
competed in a Classic Pattern Partner or Classic Line Dance competition.
• Partnership will be a combination of any two dancers (girl/girl or boy/girls).
• Girl/girl will dance against boy/girl.
• Once females register at an event as the male partner, there can be no changing
between the dances.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• The graduation criteria will be governed by the Events Director who will advise the
dancers of their criteria.
(v) World Championships Requirements
• This division does not qualify for the World Championships.
• This division will not offer a ‘World Champion Title’ only Social Division Champion.
• All Social competitors must compete in Overall in at least one (1) International
event.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Social dancers must dance only full basic vanilla patterns with no variations.
(vii) Movement Limitations
• No introduction steps are allowed.
• Starting position: As per the dance step description.
(viii) Music
• Original music will be used.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
(ix) Costumes
• No special costume requirements.
• Safe footwear is recommended.
• It is recommended that clothing is smart in appearance.
(b) Classic Pattern Partner
(i) Age Requirements
• Adult Age-Restrictions require both partners to be applicable to the division (Adult
and up).
• Jr. Primary – 0-9
• Jr. Youth – 10-13
• Jr. Teen – 14-17
• Adult – 18+
• Crystal – 30+
• Diamond – 40+
• Silver – 50+
• Gold – 60+
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification couples must compete in all three (3) available dances.
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• This division is for dancers who graduate from the Social division and for anyone who
wishes to compete in this Classic division.
(iv) World Championships Requirements
• All competitors should have competed in at least one (1) WCDF events in Pattern
Partner, one (1) of which must be for overall.
(v) Basic Dance Rules
• Dancers must dance basic vanilla patterns with no variations.
(vi) Movement Limitations
• No introduction steps are allowed.
• Starting position: As per the dance step description.
(vii) Music
• Original music will be used.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
(viii) Costumes
• Costumes should be appropriate to the dance character.
• Cowboy boots compulsory.
• Costume must be country in appearance, except in West Coast Swing.
• Cowboy Hats compulsory for men, except in West Coast Swing.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparkly attachment or materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed.
6.4 TEAMS
(a) Social Teams (4 or more members)
(i) Age Requirements
• Junior -All members under 18 years old
• Open -All members 18+ years old
(ii) Entry Regulations
• This division is only for Social Team dancers who have never competed in a Classic
Team or Classic Line dance competition.
• Social Dancers may only dance in the Social Divisions.
• Social dancers may not enter the Classic Divisions which includes: Renegade,
Choreography, Classic Teams.
• Each Social Team should have a Team name and may only dance once (1) in any
specific division at each event under this name.
• Teams competing in separate categories must have different music selections, and
different dance routines.
• Any member of any team may dance in any Social Team category under any Team
“Name”.
(iii) World Championships Requirements
• This division does not qualify for the World Championships.
• This division will not offer a ‘World Champion’ title, only a ‘Social Team Champion’
title.
• All Social Team competitors should have competed in at least one (1) International
event.
(iv) Basic Dance Rules
• A dance or medley of dances choreographed to music of the Troupe’s/Team’s choice.
• It is an open category where Line, Solo and Couples dance may be used in any
combination.
• Max. 50% Partner or Couples allowed into the choreography.
• A dance script is not required.
(v) Movement Limitations
• Not allowed: Acrobatics, aerials, lifts, lying, bridges, sits, jumps, and jetés.
(vi) Music
• Music length: Four (4) to Seven (7) minutes, which includes set-up and tear-down.
• Team programs may use up to a combined total of 50% non-Country music.
• Self-selected music must be submitted with registration/entry and a backup on a
marked (Team name & Division) CD / USB drive must be available at competition.
• The Penalty for performances that do not meet the time requirements is last place.
• Brief recorded introductions and curtain calls are permitted.
• Clocking will start when either the set-up, performance or any performance sound
begins, whichever comes first.
• Clocking ends when either the tear-down, performance or the performance sound
ends, whichever comes last (excluding any curtain calls).
(vii) Costumes
• No special costume requirements.
• Safe footwear.
• It is recommended that clothing is smart in appearance.
• Set-up and tear-down may be no longer than three (3) minutes each
(b) Teams
(i) Age Requirements
• Junior -0-17 years old
• Open -18+ years old
(ii) Entry Regulations
• Each Team Captain must be a registered member before the Team competes.
• Each Team should have a Team name and may only dance once (1) in an specific
division at each event under this name.
• Every Team will be registered in the Team name.
• Teams competing in separate categories must have different music selections and
different dance routines.
• Any member of any team may dance in any Team category under any Team “Name”.
(iii) World Championships Requirements
• Each Team name must compete in at least one (1) International event.
(iv) Basic Dance Rules
• A dance or medley of dances choreographed to music of the Team’s choice.
• It is an open category where Line, Solo and Couples dance may be used in any
combination.
• Max. 50% Partner or Couples in the choreography.
(v) Movement Limitations
• Not allowed: Acrobatics, aerials, lifts, lying, sits, and jetés which rotate.
(vi) Music
• Music length: Four (4) to Seven (7) minutes, which includes set-up and tear=down.
• Team programs may use up to a combined total of 50% non-Country music.
• Self-selected music must be submitted with registration/entry and a backup on a
marked (Team name & Division) CD / USB drive must be available at competition.
• The Penalty for performances that do not meet the time requirements is to be
placed last.
• Brief recorded introductions and curtain calls are permitted.
• Clocking will start when either the set-up, performance or any performance sound
begins, whichever comes first.
• Clocking ends when either the tear-down, performance or the performance sound
ends, whichever comes last (excluding any curtain calls).
(vii) Costumes
• Costumes should be recognizable as a team/troupe.
• Costume must be country in appearance.
• Boots compulsory.
• Cowboy hats compulsory for all men.
• Hose and dance pants of any colour for ladies if they are exposed.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Glitter and sparky attachments or materials are allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
• Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
• Set-up and tear-down may be no longer than three (3) minutes each.
(c) Showtime
(i) Age Requirements
• Open Age-All Ages
(ii) Entry Regulations
• Each Showtime Team Captain must be a registered member before the Team
competes.
• Each Showtime Team should have a Team name and may only dance once (1) in any
specific division at each event under this name.
• Every Showtime Team will be registered in the Showtime Team name.
• Showtime Teams competing in separate categories must have different music
selection and different dance routines.
• Each Showtime Team is only allowed to dance one (1) at each International event.
• Any member of any Showtime Team may dance in any Showtime team category
under any Showtime team ‘Name’.
(iii) World Championships Requirements
• Every Showtime Team should have competed in at least one (1) International event
under the same name.
(iv) Basic Dance Rules
• The program can be Solo, Line, Partner, and Couples in any combination.
• A dance script is not required.
(v) Movement Limitations
• There are no movement limitations when performing a Showtime routine.
(vi) Music
• Music length: Three (3) to Ten (10) minutes, which includes set-up and tear-down.
• Self-selected music, total freedom in music selection.
• Self-selected music must be submitted with registration/entry and a backup on a
marked (Team name & Division) CD / USB drive must be available at competition.
• The Penalty for performances that do not meet the time requirements is to be
placed last.
• Brief recorded introductions and curtain calls are permitted.
• Clocking will start when either the set-up, performance or any performance sound
begins, whichever comes first.
• Clocking will end when either the tear-down, performance or the performance
sound ends, whichever comes last (excluding any curtain calls).
(vii) Costumes
• No costume requirements.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
• Props are allowed.
• Set-up and tear-down may be no longer than three (3) minutes each.

6.5 WHEELCHAIR DIVISION
(i) Age Requirements
• No age requirement. Wheelchair dancers are eligible in this division without any
differentiation of age.
(ii) Overall Requirements
• For overall qualification competitors have to compete in all three (3) dances.
(iii) Entry Regulations
• Every competitor must be a registered member before they compete.
• Dancers must be handicapped and a document of proof may be required.
• Two divisions offered: Manual / Electric.
• Eligible dancers shall be regular wheelchair users i.e. the wheelchair may not be
used for convenience or as an accessory. Violation of this rule results in
disqualification of the dancer.
• Wheelchair dancers may only dance in the Wheelchair Divisions.
• Wheelchair dancers may not enter the Classic Divisions which includes:
Choreography and Teams.
• Male and Female dancers will compete against each other.
(iv) Graduation Criteria
• Graduation is not applicable in this division
(v) World Championships Requirements
• This division does not qualify for the World Championships.
• This division will not offer a ‘World Champion Title’ only ‘Wheelchair Division
Champion’.
• All Wheelchair competitors should have competed in Overall in at least one (1)
International event.
(vi) Basic Dance Rules
• Wheelchair dancers must dance only full basic vanilla patterns.
• No variations are allowed.
• It’s acceptable to have a maximum of 2 dancers on the floor for guidance. This is
not compulsory but can help the judges.
• All Wheelchair dancers will compete in the same division without any
differentiation.
• The dancer must control his/her displacements without obstructing other
competitors. Obstructing other competitors will result in a penalty.
(vii) Movement Limitations
• A stationary dancing introduction within the radius of the arms and body, prior to
the start of the dance is allowed.
(viii) Music
• Music may be changed from the original, but will be the same rhythm.
• Dance music length: Two (2) minutes.
• Each dance will be counted in.
• Event Director may select up to three (3) dances of their own choice.
• It is recommended to use at least one (1) of the WCDF Wheelchair Dances.
• The three (3) dances used at the World Championships will be as announced on the
WCDF website.
(ix) Costumes
• Boots are not compulsory in this division.
• Cowboy hats are compulsory for men in all dances, except Funky and Novelty dances.
• Dance related advertisements on competition clothes or wheelchair are not allowed.
• Brand name of the wheelchair is allowed.
• Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.

In all cases, the general rules supersede the individual division rules.
Contestants in all divisions should wear costumes that are Country Western and are appropriate to the
dance and the person wearing them.
Props are anything that is not normally worn as clothing and are only allowed in Showtime and Star
Solo Spotlight Medleys.

7.1 PRE-PRIMARY
(a) Boys and Girls:
(i) Girls may wear a Cowboy hat.
(ii) Boys and Girls are allowed to wear costumes that have sequins, rhinestones, sparkly
embellishments / materials, or metallic threads woven into the costume. This includes
jewelry.
(iii) Tights and ski-pants may only be worn with a skirt.
(iv) Stockings and tights are not compulsory.
(vi) Full briefs must be worn, no g-strings (appearance) are allowed.
(vii) Safe Footwear or dance shoes recommended.
(viii) No other special costume requirements.

7.2 Classic Newcomer
(a) Female:
(i) Ladies may wear a Western Hat.
(ii) Shoes:
• It is mandatory for Newcomer dancers to wear a western-look dance boot when
participating in an SACWD Competition, SA Open (International Championship) and
the WCDF World Championships;
• An exemption is granted to dancers in the 6 to 13-year-old age groups (Primary and
Youth), as well as to new dancers competing for the first time in the Adult to Amber
age divisions, allowing them to wear block heel dance shoes or any safe dance
footwear.
• If primary dancers wear block heel latin shoes, they are encouraged to wear short
socks (of any colour) with their shoes.
• Preferably, the heel should not be lower than 2.5 cm, but dancers with medical
conditions, or those dancing in older age divisions such as Amber, may wear a lower
heel.
• No chains or buckles are allowed on the boots. Ankle boots are also not permitted –
the boots must come up to the calf.
• Funky / Novelty contestants may wear any dance shoes or dance sneakers.
(iii) Ladies may wear costumes that have sequins, rhinestones, sparkly embellishments /
materials, or metallic threads woven into the costume.
• Tights and dance pants may only be worn with a skirt.
• Pantyhose / Tights are not compulsory, but are recommended in cases where there
may be exposure.
• Full dance briefs must be worn. G-string style briefs are not allowed
• Judges will consider the competitor’s costume and determine the country look, dance
character suitability and decency of the costume and reflect their opinion on the
scoring ballot.
(iv) Dance-related advertisements or logos on competition clothing are not allowed.
(v) Props are not allowed, including items such as face masks and any kind of weapon.
(vi) Full theatrical makeup, including glitter and similar products, may be used. There are no
restrictions regarding makeup.
(b) Male:
(i) A Western-style hat is compulsory for male dancers in all dances, except for Novelty and
Funky
(ii) Shoes:
• Western Style Boots are compulsory;
• Ballroom or Latin shoes are allowed for boys aged 13 and under, as well as for adult
men competing for the first time;
• Funky and Novelty contestants may wear any shoes or dance sneakers.
• All Newcomer dancers that would like to compete at the World Championship must
wear western style boots.
(iii) Male dancers are allowed to wear costumes that include sequins, rhinestones, sparkly
embellishments or fabrics, and metallic threads. This also includes jewelry and shiny
materials;
• All dancers must wear socks, only black socks are allowed, except in Funky/Novelty.
• Gents must wear shirts with sleeves in all their dances.
• Dancers must wear an appropriate belt.
• A tie and waistcoat are encouraged for smooth and rise & fall dances (Nightclub, West
Coast Swing, Foxtrot and Waltz).
(iv) Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
(v) Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.

7.3 Classic Novice to Star Divisions
(a) Female:
(i) Ladies may wear a Cowboy hat.
(ii) Shoes:
• Country Western boots are compulsory (the heel may not be lower than 2.5 cm)
• No chains and buckles are acceptable on the boots, it must be a western style boot.
• Funky and Novelty contestants may wear any dance shoes or dance sneakers.
• All dancers that would like to compete at the SA Open and World Championship must
wear western style boots.
(iii) Ladies are allowed to wear costumes of their choice that have sequins, rhinestones,
sparkly embellishments / materials, or metallic threads woven into the costume.
• Stockings and tights are not compulsory.
• Full briefs must be worn, no g-strings (appearance) are allowed.
(iv) Dance-related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
(v) Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.
(vi) Limited theatrical makeup will be allowed.
(b) Male:
(i) Shoes:
• Western style boots are compulsory in all dances except: Funky, Star Solo Spotlight
Medley and Modern Line divisions.
• Funky and Novelty contestants may wear any dance shoes or dance sneakers.
• All dancers that would like to compete at the World Championship must wear
western style (Cowboy) boots and hats.
(ii) Male dancers are allowed to wear costumes that have sequins, rhinestones, sparkly
embellishments / materials, or metallic threads woven into the costume.
• Costumes should be country in appearance except for Funky/Novelty and Star Solo
Spotlight Medley divisions.
(iii) Dance related advertisements on competition clothes are not allowed.
(iv) Props are not allowed such as face masks and weapons of any kind.

7.4. Couples
(i) Refer to the above rules regarding costuming for the Newcomer to Advanced categories.

7.5 Teams, Showtime, Duo, Trio, Wheelchair
(i) Please see under Costume of each division.

8.1. Music Preview at competitions:
(a) Line Dance will be a maximum of 30 seconds per dance.
(b) Pro-Am will be a maximum of 30 seconds per dance.
(c) Music Preview will be played one (1) time per scheduled shift (between events).

8.2 Competition music length minimum and maximums (which may extend to the end of the phrase):
(a) Couples will dance for 1.5 minutes.
(b) Line Dancers will dance for 2 minutes.
(c) Pro-am couples will dance for 1.5 minutes.
(d) Line Dance Choreography 2 minutes.
(e) Solo medley (Rising Star / Megastar / Jewel / Regal / Sapphire) 4 – 6 minutes.
(f) Teams – 4-7 minutes, Showtime Teams – 3-10 minutes.

8.3 Contestant selected music limitations.
(a) Contestant selected music must be country or sound country for all parts of their performance,
except –
(i) Non-country choreography divisions
(ii) Showtime programs which may use any type of music
(iii) Troupe programs. Any music may be used.
(iv) Star Spotlight Medley which has no music restrictions.
(v) Teams (Social or Classic) where a combined total of 50% non-country music may be used.
(vi) Team Showtime which has no music restrictions.
(b) When determining the “Country-ness” of a song, it is deemed to be country music if it:
(i) Made it onto nationally syndicated country music charts.
(ii) Had airplay on a recognized country western radio station.
(iii) Was released for country radio, TV, video, CD or DVD.
(iv) Was performed by a country artist or band.
(v) A non-country song performed by a Country Artist, is deemed to be Country.
(c) Contestant selected music will be audited during competition for any internal requirements,
must adhere to the music length minimum and maximums, and must be submitted on a labelled
(Name & Division) USB drive.
(d) Brief, recorded introductions and curtain calls are permitted. Clocking begins when either the
performance, set-up or the performance sound begins, whichever comes first. Clocking ends
when either the performance, tear-down or the performance sound ends, whichever comes last
(not including curtain call).
(e) Performance and timing documentation must be provided to the Contest coordinator prior to
performance (step sheet).
(f) For Worlds, the e-mail and the accompanying documentation must be presented to the Timing
Auditor 48 hours in advance of the performance.
(g) It is the contestant’s responsibility to ensure that their music and choreography meet all time
requirements. Failure to meet the performance time documentation and/or time requirements
may result in disqualification by a majority vote of the judging panel.

8.4. Couples Music Recommended BPM (Slow counts in brackets)
(a) All Divisions – Social / Classic / Pro-Am

9.1 Contestants may enter any division for which they are qualified except for the following:
(a) Couples and Line dance contestants may not enter both Classic and Showcase divisions with the
same dance routines.
(b) Classic Division dancers, may not enter Social Divisions, and vise versa.
(c) Each Team member may only dance once in any specific division at each event.
(d) Classic Couples division partnerships may not also enter a competition event as a Pro-Am or ProPro student-teacher partnership or vice-versa.

9.2 Once a contestant has performed in a division of their choice, they may not compete later in a lower ranked skill level division in that dance type, except for the following:
(a) No competitor may drop more than two skill levels from their original skill level.

9.3 If a Newcomer or Novice contestant does not compete during the entire Eligibility Period (24 months),he/she/they will lose all their promotional points.

9.4 If a contestant wins a Showcase division where 3 or more competed for overall, they must enter their respective Classic division at the Intermediate / Advanced Level for Line dance or for Couples the next Dance season.

9.5 Advanced, Rising Star, Megastar, Jewel, Regal, Sapphire and Premier division candidates only achieve their status after they have danced a full program at that level in any World Sanctioned Event.

10.1 For all dances, contestants should be courteous at all times on the floor, as well as be vigilant and not interfere with other contestants.

10.2 For Couples, Pro-Am and Pro-Pro progressive dances, contestants should generally move in Line of Dance (LOD), counter clockwise around the outside of the dance floor.

10.3 When a dancer employs a stationery movement in a progressive dance, once established, the stationery contestant has the “right of way” over any dancer moving toward their space. When spot dancers use traveling movements they need not return to their original spot. Stationery dancers have the “right of way” for their spot along with reasonable space in which to perform.

10.4 For Line Dance categories, once the contestants were evenly spaced on the floor relative to each other, everyone’s dance space is determined. When the music begins, contestants should perform so as to reasonably maintain their relative position on the floor. Dancers should not intrude on the dance space of other competitors, even when performing variations.

10.5 Leaving the dance floor during your heat is not allowed and will result in a Judge Conference Penalty.

10.6 The competitor must remain within the flow of the step description.

10.7 Variations must not intrude on the dance space of another competitor.

10.8 Competitors should use floor craft to enhance their dance.

The Administrative Director will make a tender form available to any interested party wanting to host a SACWD event or competition. This tender form needs to be completed and sent back to SACWD office at least 3 months before the competition date (or prescribed date).

11.1 SACWD PROMOTIONAL POINT COMPETITIONS FOR EVERY YEAR WILL BE:
(a) Club Championships.
(i) All registered dance schools/members may enter for these competitions. Dancers
represent their clubs at the Club Championships.
(ii) These are also development competitions and non-registered dancers may enter but will
not receive any points or colours.
(iii) If a non-registered dancer is placed better/higher than a registered member in that
division, the points of that placing will be awarded to the next registered dancer.
(iv) The dancers will, however, still receive their awards for places obtained at the
competition.
(v) The points that every dancer obtained for his/her placing per Club/School/Studio will be
accumulated to establish which Club/School/Studio is the Club Champion for the year.
(vi) The 1st and 2nd places, per section/age group, qualify for that District’s team and then also
for the appropriate colors.
(viii) Dancers will march on in their various Clubs.
(b) District Championships.
(i) Only registered dance clubs/schools/studios and dancers may enter for this competition
and dancers will represent their respective Districts.
(ii) SACWD District Colours are awarded to:
• dancers who qualified at the Club Championships;
• dancers representing the District team at the District Championship; and
• must have the applicable district shirt.
(iii) Dancers who order colours (shirts) and do not show up to dance in the specific team
forfeit their colours. They will not be allowed to receive them, and no payments will be
refunded. The shirt will be kept for 12 months, during which the dancer will have the
opportunity to requalify to receive it.
If such dancer(s) do not dance and requalify within those 12 months, the shirts will be
considered a donation and sold to other dancers.
(iv) District Teams will compete against each other at the District Championships.
(v) The points that every dancer in their respective District Teams obtained for his/her placing
will be accumulated to establish which District is awarded the District Champion for the
year.
(vi) The 1st and 2nd places, per section, qualify for that Provincial’s team and then also for the
appropriate colors.
(vii) Dancers will march on in their District Colours (all other dancers with their Clubs).
(c) Inter-Provincial Championships.
(i) Only registered dance clubs/schools/studios and dancers may enter for this competition
and dancers will represent their respective Provinces.
(ii) SACWD Provincial Colours are awarded to:
• dancers who qualified at the District Championships;
• dancers representing the Provincial team at the Inter-Provincial Championship; and
• must have the applicable provincial shirt.
(iii) Dancers who order colours (shirts) and do not show up to dance in the specific team forfeit their colours. They will not be allowed to receive them, and no payments will be refunded. The shirt will be kept for 12 months, during which the dancer will have the opportunity to requalify to receive it. If such dancer(s) do not dance and requalify within those 12 months, the shirts will be considered a donation and sold to other dancers.
Provincial Teams will compete against each other at the Inter-Provincial Championships.
(iv) The points that every dancer in their respective Provincial Teams obtained for his/her placing will be accumulated to establish which Province is awarded the Provincial Champion for the year.
(vi) Dancers will march on in their Provincial Colours (all other dancers with their Clubs).
(d) SA Open Championships.
(i) All WorldCDF registered dancers may enter for the South African Open. Dancers must participate in at least one other official SACWD competition to qualify for entry for the SA Open.
(ii) Non-registered dancers cannot enter for the South African Open.
(iii) All 1st places will be awarded the title of SACWD Champions for the applicable year. They will qualify to order the SACWD SA Champion Golf Shirt. (must be a Provincial Dancer).
(iv) The SACWD Teams for the World Championship will be elected on the following criteria:
(v) Qualifying Criteria:
• All the following documents/information must be in place according to the SACWD
Administrator’s data base (refer to SACWD yearly calendar):
➢ All monies due to SACWD must be paid to date.
➢ Copy of valid ID document.
➢ Copy of valid Passport document.
➢ Copy of valid Visa document.
➢ Registered with WorldCDF (proof of registration & number).
➢ Proof of World CDF entry for all sections.
➢ Proof of flight ticket to the WorldCDF event.
➢ Must purchase / have previously purchased and own the SACWD Tracksuit.
➢ Accommodation must be in place.
(vii) If a dancer does not attend and participate at the worlds, he/she will forfeit their SACWD Colours (SACWD Tracksuit). They will not be allowed to receive them, and no payments will be refunded. The colours will be kept for 12 months, during which the dancer will have the opportunity to requalify to receive it. If such dancer(s) do not dance and requalify within those 12 months, the colours will be considered a donation and sold to other dancers.
(ix)Dancers who participate in the (1) Club Championship and qualify for District colors and then participate at the (2) District Challenge, then qualify for their Provincial colors and who participate in the (3) Provincial teams and then dance at the SA Open where they get first places, qualify for the SACWD Tracksuit. (Note that they may not get the SACWD shirt, that is only for dancers who will participate at the World Championships).

This rule only applies to:
Classic Line Dance (all 6 Dances)
Newcomer/Novice/Intermediate/Advanced/Star Divisions.
Classic Couples (all 8 Dances)
Triple Two/Nightclub/Polka/Waltz/ChaCha/Two Step/ECS/WCS
Modern Line Dance (all 3 dances)
Basic / ACE
Only dancers participating at the World Championships will get badges that can be put on the track suits.

11.2 Intermediate / Advanced Dancers – Award
The Executive Director announced in 2025 that a motivation/reason will be established for the Intermediate / Advanced dancers to participate in all competitions throughout the dance year – in
these sections specific. The Intermediate or Advanced dancers who wins the draw, will receive a flight ticket to represent South Africa at the WCDF World Championships (Terms and Conditions applies).
During the prize-giving of the SA Open on the Saturday, the names of dancers who meet the following criteria will be entered into the draw:
➢ Intermediate/Advanced dancer(s) who participated in the Club Championships; AND
➢ Dancers who fulfilled item 1 and also participated in the District Championships; AND
➢ Dancers who fulfilled items 1 and 2 and also participated in the Inter-Provincial; AND
➢ The above-mentioned dancers who ALSO participate in the SA Open.
Beforehand, during registration, a form with terms & conditions will be provided, which each dancer must sign, thereby CONFIRMING that if his/her name is drawn – such dancer will DEFINITELY
participate in the World Championships.
If any of the dancers who have qualified KNOW that they will not be participating in the following year’s World Championships, they must indicate on the registration form that they are withdrawing from the draw.
Should ANY reason arise where the dancer is unable to attend the WCDF World Championships, and in doing so prevented another dancer from being
able to attend, the following will apply:

Such dancer will receive a penalty which must be paid within a certain period AND such dancer will NEVER again qualify for the draw.
NB: From the 2026 Competition year onwards, the following criteria will be added:
Dancers MUST participate in the respective District / Provincial teams (wearing the correct attire) and take part in the parade with those teams.
(e) Dancers who participate in any other WCDF Sanctioned Events also receive Promotional points.

11.3 General Rules About Competitions
(a) All entry forms must be made available at least two (2) months before the competition.
(b) The competition closing date must be two (2) weeks before the competition.
(c) The tuck shop at a competition can be run by any private person who applies by the SACWD office to run the tuck shop. The amount to run a tuck shop will be R 200.00 and payable before the competition closing date.
(d) Other private vendors will be allowed at competitions. The fee for these stalls will be R200.00
payable on or before the closing date.
(e) All dancers must compete for the District and Province in which they reside on a permanent basis.
(f) If there is no dance activity (registered dance schools etc.) in a particular District and or Province, a dancer may compete at the registered Club/School/Studio of their choice or register as a SACWD dancer.
(g) Venue requirements:
(i) Floor
The dance floor space may not be smaller than 12m x 10 m (excluding the seating for spectators). This is only the dance area.
(ii) Ventilation
There must be air conditioning/windows that can open or fans that can circulate the air.
(iii) Electricity
There must be enough power plugs for scrutineering, DJ, Compere and Catering etc.
Lighting must be sufficient for all official duties.
(iv) Door entry
There must be an entrance door for Spectators and Dancers as well as an exit door with
the necessary control.
(v) Stage
If possible, there must be a stage for SACWD competitions.
(vi) Dressing facilities
Sufficient dressing facilities for male and female dancers (not in the same room) – separate
from the bathrooms.
(vii) Bathrooms
Must be clean, tidy and in a working condition (with continuous monitoring of the facilities during the competition)
(h) SACWD reserves all video rights to any competition.
(i) SACWD reserves the right to refuse anyone entry to any competition.
(j) SACWD reserves the right to all championship titles and to award titles to dancers.
(k) Competition Officials
Preferably, officials must be registered DTO members of SACWD. Payment of officials during SACWD activities will be determined by the two different rates for registered members and nonregistered members.
(i) Adjudicators.
Adjudicators for all competitions will be determined by the Executive Director of SACWD.
(ii) Scrutineer and Scorer
An experienced Scrutineer and Scorer must be used.
(iii) Compere/MC.
An experienced Compere/MC must be used.
(iv) Marshals
➢ Competition Marshal:
Escorting dancers onto the competition floor, and spacing them evenly in numerical order. Also ensures that contestants’ clothing complies with SACWD rules. Acts as the intermediary between officials during the competition.
➢ Dress Marshal:
Responsible for gathering all contestants outside the marshalling area. Ensures that dancers maintain neatness in the dressing rooms and checks that cloth numbers are correctly attached to the dancers’ clothing.
(v) DJ
A DJ with experience in competition work. Must have the music before the day of the competition and must do a sound check at least the evening before the competition.
(vi) Event Manager
Ensures that SACWD rules are observed at all times and handles all complaints or issues that arise during the competition day.
(l) Preliminary Rounds (excl. all Star divisions)
• Maximum of 10 competitors in any final heat.
• 11-16 competitors will cut to 8 (7 if tie occurs)
• 17+ will cut to 10 (9 if tie occurs)
(m) Qualifying for entering the SA Open
• Classic Line dancers who are dancing to qualify during the three (3) SACWD competitions to be eligible to participate in the SA Open –
Classic Line Newcomer/Novice/Intermediate/Advanced/Stars.
(all other Dance Selections are open for dancers).
• After the Inter-Provincial, a list is compiled with the names of dancers who participated in the SACWD competitions throughout the year. These dancers may then give either a positive or negative response as to whether the specific division should be opened to dancers who did not qualify (or could not qualify) during the year, thereby granting permission for the division to be opened for participation, or otherwise closed.
• This feedback must be submitted in writing to the Executive Director within 3 days after the conclusion of the Inter-Provincial. If no written feedback with a clear yes or no is received, the division will be opened.
• From 2026 onwards, all divisions in which only one dancer have qualified will automatically be opened for additional dancers to participate in the respective divisions.
• A negative response (“no”) shall only be considered valid if the dancer has participated in all three SACWD competitions.

12.1 Non-Conference Penalty Codes: One (1) Placement Reduction:
• C Costume and Appearance.
• B Basic Pattern.
• F Courtesy and Floor craft.
• A Acceptable Behavior.
• M Movement.
• T Timing.

12.2 Penalty Codes: Last Place:
• P Prop Use.
• D Dance Delivery.
• H Costume Minimums (Boots & Hats).

12.3 Conference Penalty Codes: Severity of Penalty shall be decided by the Judges’ Panel.
• Self-Selected Music.
• Loss of Hat.
• Leaving the Dance Floor.

12.4 Reduction Codes:
• S Single Placement.
• Q Last Place.
• X Disqualification.
• E Expulsion – The dance will not count for the overall placement.

A. COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL
➢ The legal way of all communications will be via e-mails. E-mails are to be sent to the Administrative Director ([email protected]) who will distribute it to the relevant Director who will then attend to the matter.

B. SOUTH AFRICAN COUNTRY AND WESTERN DANCING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Governing Body consists of the following:
Executive Director (Mr. J Labuschagne)
Administrative Director (Me H Labuschagne)
Financial Director (Me A Bakker)
Technical Director (Mr. T Brummelkamp)
PRO Director (Me T Taylor)
➢ It is the aim of the Directors to have all the Provinces in the Country and every District in the Provinces on board with a registered SACWD Dance Institution in every town, no matter how small or how big.
➢ SACWD’s goal is to meet the needs of all participating as well as prospective dancers. To create a friendly and helpful environment for dancers who want to do what they love – dance! To make dance possible for needy people, therefore it is a non-profit organization.
➢ The Directors will oversee all the arrangements for SACWD competitions with the assistance (where and when needed) from Studio Heads.
➢ All matters regarding South African Country and Western Dancing will be handled by the Directors and all Studio Heads sort directly under the main body. Every Club/Studio will have a Guardian, appointed by the Executive Director.
➢ The Executive Director has the final say in matters where there is a dispute.
➢ An Executive Committee can be chosen and appointed by the Directors who will assist the Directors in all SACWD matters.

SACWD Reg No: 2014/006317/09

BUSINESS OFFICE:
PO Box 954 
0825618220

KROONSTAD 
0866129630
[email protected]

There will only be one bank account for all SACWD activities and this will be overseen by the Executive Director and the Financial Director.
SACWD is affiliated with the WCDF and follows their dance syllabus.
SACWD hosts three competitions per year, where dancers compete under the SACWD banner and rules to reach the required standard.
The SA Open is an International qualifying competition for the World Championships, where WCDF rules are applied.

SACWD BOARD OF DIRECTORS
These rules are subject to change at any time without prior notice