Cardiff University Dancesport Club exemplifies the blend of artistry and athleticism. Known for its competitive spirit and inclusive community, Cardiff Dancesport offers a platform for dancers of all levels. Whether beginners or seasoned competitors, everyone finds a place to shine, learn, and grow.
Founded in the 1980s, Cardiff Dancesport set a vibrant scene for a Ballroom, Latin and Salsa dancing society, where students were offered the exciting opportunity to represent Cardiff University at national competitions. As one of the oldest and most esteemed clubs within the Cardiff Students’ Union, Cardiff Dancesport has a rich history, watching the club evolve from a society called BopSoc, to a recognised sport in the Athletic Union, fostering high-level dancers for the past forty years.
Under the instruction of Phillip and Carol Perry from the New Cottage Dance Studio, Dancesport flourished in the 1990s. Members describe their experience as “a total blast” and something that made their university experience some of the “best times” of their life so far.
By the early 2000s, Phillip and Carol handed the baton to their son Sean and his wife Kay Perry. They have continued to teach hundreds of students at Cardiff University and New Cottage Dance Studios, now known as Shappelles. They continued instructing to this date and are the backbone of the club.
Over the years, Cardiff Dancesport has hosted the Southern University Dance Competition (SUDC) and has also attended many competitions, achieving notable success. From the Cardiff A Team placing first at the Southern Friendly in 1995, to Zoe Bannister and Anirudh Bansal winning the National Pre-Intermediate Inter-Varsity Championship in 2024, Cardiff Dancesport has thrived for over forty years.
Currently, revitalising post COVID-19, Dancesport is slowly regaining its momentum and thriving as a club. The coaching team, led by Sean Perry, now includes his daughter, Ella, and her partner, Gustav, and salsa specialist, Andy Witt. Though membership numbers have dipped from their peak, the club is steadily regaining momentum. Members describe it as “an unforgettable experience” and “the highlight of university life”, making it a cherished part of the student experience not to be overlooked.
Over the next eight weeks, Cardiff Dancesport is taking on an incredible challenge, teaching twelve sport clubs and society members to dance, ready to perform at their Strictly Come Dancesport charity show on Friday the 28th of March.
Featuring societies such as Rugby League, Kickboxing, Kayaking, Taylor Swift, and so much more, this will not be an event to miss! Tickets go on sale soon, all in aid of the hospice and end-of-life care charity Marie Curie, so don’t miss out on an unforgettable evening.