WSF Rule Book
WSF SALSA RULEBOOK
2024
Governing WSF Salsa Competitions and Athletes
© Copyright 2001 - 2024, World Salsa Federation
All Rights Reserved
First Printing: November 2001
Correspondence: World Salsa Federation
1. Foreword
1.1. Scope and Purpose
The World Salsa Federation is the International Governing Body for Salsa and the largest and most prestigious Salsa organization in the World. The WSF has its own system of rules, which governs all WSF competitions. The WSF makes its own competition rules and is not bound by any rules that any other Salsa organizations may use.
1.1.1. Only figures from the World Salsa Federation (WSF) syllabus and approved syllabus lists will be allowed in the amateur couple and school figure singles syllabus events (Bronze, Silver, and Gold) for Salsa.
1.1.2. The WSF Salsa Rules govern all registered WSF Salsa Athletes and WSF Salsa Competitive Events.
2. Definitions
The following definitions for terms and organization names are used throughout this document. In cases for which the stated definition of any term deviates from the reader's perception of the normal usage of that term, the definition given here shall take precedence:
2.1. Terms
2.1.1. A "Championship" is an event held once yearly in a geographic area (i.e. club, region, etc.) which is sanctioned by the WSF. Sanctioning authority is given in the SANCTIONS section of this Rulebook.
2.1.2. A "Competition" is an organized gathering of Athletes, officials and spectators for the purpose of holding competitive events.
2.1.3. An "Event" describes all rounds of a specific category of competition, classified by:
a) Dance Style: (i.e. Salsa.)
b) Proficiency Level: (i.e.: Bronze, Silver, Gold or Open.)
c) Age Level: (i.e.: Juvenile, Pre-teen, Junior, or Youth, Adult)
2.1.4. A "Professional" is an individual who uses his or her dance skills in order to receive monetary gain and where the majority of his or her income is derived from same.
2.1.5. A "Scholarship" is money given to an Amateur Athlete or an Athlete's Dance Teacher to pay for the Amateur Athlete's dance lessons.
2.1.6. A "Sponsorship" is money given to an Amateur Athlete and/or to the Amateur Athlete's teacher to pay for dance lessons, travel expenses, competition expenses, etc. for the purpose of supporting the Amateur Athlete.
2.1.7. A “Manager” is an individual who is engaged in guiding Athletes in Salsa activities.
2.1.8. A “Trainer” is an individual who is engaged in the physical or mental training of Athletes for Salsa.
2.1.9. An “Official” is an individual who is eligible to officiate at Salsa competitions (e.g., judge, scrutinizer, MC, music director).
2.1.10. A “WSF certified judge” is a WSF member who has successfully completed the WSF certification program to adjudicate at Salsa events.
2.1.11. A “Couple” is comprised of one male and one female Athlete. Exemption would be same sex competitions.
2.2. ORGANIZATIONS
2.2.1. "AAU Salsa” is the Salsa Sports division of Dance in the AAU.
2.2.2. “WSF" is the World Salsa Federation and the International Governing Body for Salsa, recognized by the Amateur Athletic Union, a voting member of the United States Olympic Committee.
3. Technical Rules of Competition
3.1. Coordination and Uniformity
3.1.1. WSF Salsa recognizes that it is highly desirable to have uniform Technical Rules of Competition governing the sport of Salsa nation-wide and world-wide.
3.1.2. The following rules are mandatory for sanctioned events held by divisions of WSF Salsa. It is recommended that other Competition Organizers adopt them in order to establish uniformity.
3.2. Competitive events
3.2.1. JUDGING SYSTEM
3.2.1.1. In all competitive events, the Skating System of Judging shall be utilized. A description of the Skating System is included in the appendix.
3.2.1.2. Competitors whose figures are determined by the Invigilator (or Chairman of Judges) not to be within the prescribed syllabus and ability level classification shall be given a verbal warning if the violation occurs in a round prior to the final round or reduced to last place in that dance in a final. Continued violations may be cause for disqualification from the competition by the Chairman of Judges.
3.2.1.3. The Invigilator or Chairman of Judges must attend the official formation rehearsal that is held in the competition facility and warn any formation team of rule infringement. If the rules are infringed during the competitive event, the Invigilator (or Chairman of Judges will report any rule violations to the Chairman of Judges.
3.3. Singles Competitive Events
Singles Competitive Events are defined as competitive events at which two or more athletes dance simultaneously in competition. Each athlete is judged and ranked in comparison with the other athlete dancing.
3.3.1. DANCES
The dances chosen from those specified as Syllabus in Section 3.4. Organizers will specify whether the competitors are to dance either the man’s or ladies’ parts.
3.3.2. ROUNDS OF COMPETITION
The rounds of competition will be as specified for Group Competitive Events.
3.3.3. MUSIC LENGTH
The music length is as specified for Group Competitive Events.
3.4. Formation Team Competitions
Team Competitions are defined as competitive events at which two or more teams of dancers compete against each other. One team dances at a time, to music provided by the team. Each team is judged and ranked in comparison with the other teams dancing.
3.4.1. DANCES
3.4.1.1. Team Competitions shall be in either of the following dance styles:
a) Salsa
3.4.1.2. Routines shall be based on the following dances:
a) Salsa
3.4.1.3. No dances other than those listed shall be allowed.
3.4.2. ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS
(See the COMPETITIVE CLASSIFICATIONS section of the RULES FOR COMPETITORS for additional eligibility definitions.) The composition of each team shall be:
a) Pre-Teen Teams: Restricted to Pre-Teens and up to two Juniors (one boy and/or one girl)
b) Junior Teams: Restricted to Juniors, any number of Pre-Teens and up to two Youths (one boy and/or one girl)
c) Youth Teams: Restricted to Youths and any number of Juniors.
d) Adult Teams: Restricted to Adults
3.4.2.1. All competitors shall dance with only one team in at any given dance competition.
3.4.2.2. Coaches may replace team members with reserves for any round in the contest. Substitutions shall not occur during the actual time the team is on the floor competing.
3.4.2.3. Coaches of teams are required to submit a roster with the name and WSF membership number of each competitor on their team, including reserves, to the Competition Organizer at least 30 days prior to the competition.
3.4.2.4. Coaches of Juvenile, Pre-Teen, Junior and Youth Teams are required to submit legal proof of birth date for each team member only once to each different Competition Organizer.
3.4.2.5. The Competition Organizer is expected to maintain a list of all names, WSF membership numbers and certified birth dates provided by the Team Coach for future formation competitive events.
3.4.3. SIZE OF FORMATION TEAMS
Teams of least 3 individuals and maximum of 16 individuals may compete in each formation.
3.4.4. TIME RESTRICTIONS
3.4.4.1. The following time restrictions shall be observed:
a) PRE-TEEN FORMATION TEAMS
Music for Routine: 2 minutes maximum
Entrance and Exit Combined: 30 seconds maximum
Total: 2 1/2 minutes maximum
b) JUNIOR FORMATION TEAMS
Music for Routine: 3 minutes maximum
Entrance and Exit Combined: 30 seconds maximum
Total: 3 1/2 minutes maximum
c) YOUTH FORMATION TEAMS
Cumulative Dancing Time: 3 minutes minimum
Music for Routine: 4 1/2 minutes maximum
Entrance and Exit Combined: 1 minute maximum
Total: 5 1/2 minutes maximum
d) ADULT FORMATION TEAMS
Cumulative Dancing Time: 3 minutes minimum
Music for Routine: 4 1/2 minutes maximum
Entrance and Exit Combined: 1 minute maximum
Total: 5 1/2 minutes maximum
3.4.4.2. The timing of the team routine begins when the first person sets foot on to the dance floor. The timing ends when the last person on the team steps off the dance floor.
3.4.5. ENTRANCES AND EXITS
3.4.5.1. Pre-Teen and Junior teams are not allowed to use music for their entrance and exit. The team must remain motionless for a period of at least two seconds before the start of the music and then again at the end of the dance before they start their exit.
3.4.5.2. Youth teams are allowed to use music for their entrance and exit if desired. When music is used for the entrance and/or exit there must be either a gong sound or a complete break in the music for a space of at least two seconds that separates the entrance/exit from the routine music proper. The formation team must remain motionless during this break both before and after the routine proper.
3.4.6. REHEARSAL IN THE COMPETITION FACILITY
3.4.6.1. Before a competition, adequate facilities must be provided for formation rehearsals.
3.4.6.2. Each formation team must be allowed an equal amount of rehearsal time in the competition facility. This time must be a minimum of 10 minutes per team.
3.4.6.3. At the commencement of this rehearsal, they must dance their routine with music and perform their entrance and exit one time for the Chairman of Judges, or his designated representative, who will warn the Coach if the team is infringing on the rules.
3.4.6.4. The Chairman of Judges is allowed to videotape each team's performance at their official rehearsal in the competition facility, for the purpose of confirming adherence to the rules.
3.4.7. COMPETITION REQUIREMENTS
3.4.7.1. Organizers are not required to hold a team competition in any category that has less than three entries.
3.4.8. MUSIC
3.4.8.1. Formation teams are required to provide their music to the Competition Organizer in one of the following formats:
a) Compact disk b) thumb drive in mp3 format.
3.4.8.2. The music must be submitted to the Competition Organizer at the time of the rehearsal in the Competition Facility. It may be picked up at the conclusion of the team's final performance.
3.4.9. DRESS
3.4.9.1. No change of clothing or costumes is permitted once the competition begins.
3.5. Syllabus Requirements
3.5.1. RESTRICTED SYLLABUS EVENTS
3.5.1.1. The WSF recognizes the WSF Syllabus for Salsa and any pre-approved syllabus.
3.5.1.2. Competition Organizers may stipulate that certain competitive events are restricted to a specific ability level classification of a specified syllabus.
3.5.1.3. Competition Organizers must state the name of the syllabus or otherwise provide the syllabus step-list in their promotional literature.
Competitors in "Syllabus" proficiency level competitive events or other competitive events for which the Competition Organizer has stipulated a restricted syllabus must limit their figures to those of the syllabus and ability level classification specified by the Competition Organizer in literature promoting the competition.
3.6. Number of Adjudicators
3.6.1. The adjudicating panel for each Salsa category, level, and style shall consist of an odd number of qualified judges who are certified as a judge by the WSF or have been cleared by the WSF Executive Board.
3.9.2 The minimum number of qualified judges shall be:
a) Five to seven for any titled championship of a region or larger geographic area, for a protected competition or for an international competition.
b) Three to five for formation team competitions, local titled championship competitions and regional non-titled competitions.
4 Rules for Competitors
The following Rules and Regulations govern all Athletes in Salsa:
4.1 Registration Requirements
4.1.1 In order to ensure a level playing field and fairness for all Athletes who wish to participate in any Salsa Competitive event:
a) All individuals entering in any Salsa Competitive Event must be registered with the WSF as a member Athlete. Member Athletes must maintain a current WSF membership with the WSF. If this is one’s first WSF competition, the membership is included with their entry fee.
4.2 Competitive Classifications
4.2.1 Competitive events are classified by age, proficiency, and style.
4.2.2 There are four general Amateur and Pro/Am competitive classifications for each age group and style that relate to proficiency.
a) Bronze Syllabus
b) Silver Syllabus
c) Gold Syllabus
d) Open
4.2.3 CLASSIFICATION ELIGIBILITY
4.2.3.1 Athletes are not restricted from competing in any or all classifications, as they are not ordered.
4.2.3.2 Athletes are restricted to the figures specified in each of the Syllabus levels used for adjudication and previously published by the Organizer.
4.2.4 AGE CLASSIFICATION
4.2.4.1 The following age classifications are based upon the individual's birthday which occurs within the calendar year:
a) Pee Wee 4th or 5th
b) Juvenile: 6th or 7th
c) Pre-Teen I: 8th or 9th
d) Pre-Teen II: 10th or 11th
e) Junior I: 12th or 13th
f) Junior II: 14th or 15th
g) Youth I: 16th, 17th, or 18th
h) Youth II: 19th or 20th
i) Adult A 21 to 30
j) Adult B 31 to 45
k) Adult C 46 to 59
l) Adult D 60 to 70
m) Adult E 71 to 79
n) Adult F 80 and above
4.2.4.2 PRE-TEEN, JUNIOR, AND YOUTH categories:
4.2.4.2.1 One partner of the couple may be no more than two age classifications younger.
4.2.4.2.2 Organizers may optionally combine age groups, for example Pre-Teen Pre-Teen II and I.
4.2.4.2.3 Pre-Teen, Junior and Youth Amateur Athletes may compete in the next higher age category actually held at a given competition provided that both Athletes are in the same age classification.
4.2.4.3 PROOF OF AGE
Each competitor, when required, must file proof of his age in one of the following acceptable manners:
o) An acceptable copy of his birth record from the State, County, or Municipal Bureau of Vital Statistics on the place of birth;
p) An acceptable copy of the delayed registration of birth, if the athlete’s birth was not recorded on his day of birth issued by the same governmental bodies;
q) An unexpired passport;
r) Immigration and naturalization forms issued by the US Department of Justice.
s) A competitor who is a foreign athlete is required to present a certified copy of his birth certificate or passport.
t) A resident alien athlete must file his official Alien Resident Card and birth certificate or passport.
4.3 Code Of Conduct and Ethics
Every participant and official in Salsa is responsible for contributing to the integrity of the sport and to help foster a fair and level playing field for Athletes.
4.3.1 It is the responsibility of all Athletes and officials of the WSF to be thoroughly familiar with the WSF Rules and Policies, to comply with them in full, and to exemplify the highest standards of fairness, ethical behavior and genuine good sportsmanship in their relations with others.
4.3.2 Any Athlete in violation of said rules and policies is subject to the loss of the privilege of his or her WSF membership as determined by the WSF in accordance with the WSF Codebook and associated policies.
4.3.3 Any disqualified Athlete may be reinstated upon WSF approval in accordance with associated polices.
4.4 Competitor's Responsibilities
4.4.1 Athletes are required to present their valid WSF registration card to the registrar at every competition in which they wish to compete.
4.4.2 If an individual does not have a valid registration card, he or she may request and fill out a WSF membership application form at the competition. The registrar or the WSF official shall accept the completed application form and a check for the membership fees if one is present. The individual will then be considered eligible to compete. If the individual recently applied for membership but had not yet received his or her membership card in the mail, he or she will be issued a refund for the duplicate applications when the WSF National office receives the applications.
4.4.3 While on the premises of a competition, Athletes shall conduct themselves in a civil and sportsmanlike manner. Athletes shall not harass or challenge a judge about the markings of that judge before, during, or after the event.
4.4.4 Athletes are responsible for being in attendance and ready to compete thirty minutes prior to the scheduled time for the event(s) entered and for checking in with the registrar (if any).
4.4.5 Athletes are responsible for adherence to the dress code requirement specified by the organizer.
4.4.6 Athletes are responsible for dancing only in those divisions and classification categories for which they are eligible under these rules. Dancing below one's minimum classification category constitutes grounds for disciplinary action.
4.4.7 Any Athlete who removes, defaces, or destroys any of the Master Scrutinizing Sheets shall be subject to disciplinary action.
4.5 Competitor's Rights
Amateur Athletes are protected from arbitrary discrimination and are entitled to fair hearings as required by the WSF and associated policies.
4.6 Rule Violations
Rule violations are as specified the WSF Codebook and associated policies. Athletes are responsible for knowing and understanding these.
4.7 Demonstrations
Demonstrations of Salsa are permitted as long as they are in compliance with the WSF Codebook and associated policies.
4.8 Competition Prizes
Money, Prizes and Gifts may be accepted by an Athlete as prizes from dance competitions in accordance with the WSF Codebook and associated polices
4.9 Sponsorships
Sponsorships from Businesses or other profit-making enterprises are considered to constitute a commercial agreement and are generally permitted. Such agreements should be submitted to the WSF National Salsa director for review prior to signing.
4.9.1 A written response will be provided within thirty days of receipt.
4.10 Benefits
Athletes may not accept proceeds from Benefits held in his or her behalf beyond those monies specified as being acceptable of the WSF codebooks and associated policies.
5 Rules For Organizers
The following rules are mandatory for sanctioned events held by WSF Clubs, Associations, and Organizers. It is recommended that other Competition Organizers adopt them in order to establish uniformity.
5.1 Sanctions
5.1.1 JURISDICTION
5.1.1.1 All WSF sanctioned events are open to WSF members only. If this is their 1st WSF competition then membership is included in their entry fees.
5.1.1.2 Sanction of games, meets, benefits, exhibitions, clinics, or entertainments of any kind where athletes compete, exhibit, demonstrate or display talents or technique, may be granted after approval of the WSF Salsa National Director
5.1.2 REQUIREMENTS
5.1.2.1 Only the WSF official and current sanction application form may be used to apply for approval. It may be obtained from the WSF or from the WSF webpage
5.1.3 FINANCES
5.1.3.1 Each organization which has been granted a sanction hereunder shall immediately after holding of the sanctioned event, file with the issuing Registration Committee the completed membership applications and fees for all participants.
5.1.3.2 The member receiving the sanction shall pay all expenses connected with the proper conduct of the competition and shall hold harmless the WSF, its Association and its Sports Committee from any and all financial obligations and contractual liability incurred in holding the event.
5.1.3.3 The Registration Committee may at any time require the organization to which the sanction has been granted to furnish a financial statement and may, within fifteen (15) days after written request, require that all receipts and vouchers relating to any item or items on the statement be submitted.
5.1.3.4 In the event of failure or refusal to file with the Registration Committee any statement or affidavit required under any subdivision of this section, no sanction to hold any athletic event of any kind shall thereafter be issued to the organization in question until such time as such statement of affidavit is filed, or until such time as the Registration Committee may determine.
5.1.4 CONDITIONS
All games, meetings, benefits, exhibitions or entertainment of any kind where sanction is required are subject to the following conditions (USE SAMPLE MEET INFORMATION FLYER AS GUIDELINE – See the Membership/Forms section of the WSF website):
5.1.4.1 It is a condition for WSF sanctioned events that no athlete’s entry will be accepted nor will he be allowed to compete or exhibit at the event unless he is a registered member of the WSF with the exception of certain special events as provided for in SPECIAL EVENTS.
5.1.4.2 Announcements and entry blanks of sanctioned events must state that no entries will be accepted unless the entrant is registered as an WSF Athlete member.
5.1.4.3 The membership number of each competitor should be required on the entry blank.
5.1.4.4 Entry blanks, advertising and the program must bear conspicuously the statement: “Held under the sanction of the ______________ Association of the World Salsa Federation,” and include the address of the Association. The WSF logo may not be altered in any way.
5.1.4.5 All organizations which have received sanction for any contest where prizes are stated on entry blanks, shall be required to send to the local Registration Committee, before the date of the competition, a copy of the entry blank, and must state the value of the prizes to be given for each event.
5.2 Responsibilities
5.2.1 The Competition Organizer and the Officials of a Salsa Competition sanctioned by the WSF shall:
a) Abide by the rules contained in the WSF RULEBOOK for all portions of the competition involving athlete categories or events.
b) Be responsible for ensuring that the TECHNICAL RULES OF COMPETITION given in the WSF RULEBOOK are followed for all portions of the competition involving athlete categories or events.
c) Ensure that qualified officials conduct the competition.
d) Take appropriate measures to protect the status of athletes who will take part in the competition and to protect their eligibility to compete in athletic competition.
e) Provide proper medical supervision for the Athletes.
f) Protect the personal welfare of the participants and spectators by taking proper safety precautions.
g) Abide by WSF’s competition insurance requirements.
h) Provide adequate financial and organization capacity to conduct the event.
i) Submit to the associated WSF Salsa Director an audited or notarized financial report of the event within 30 days of the event conclusion.
5.2.2 Points which arise which are not covered the WSF SALSA RULEBOOK shall be referred to the WSF Salsa Committee for clarification and/or resolution.
5.3 Publication Requirements
5.3.1 Organizers holding a sanctioned competition or event shall include the following on all entry forms, materials, and programs:
"I/we hereby release, discharge, and covenant not to sue the WSF, its respective administrators, directors, agents, officers, members, volunteers, employees, other participants, any sponsors, advertisers, and if applicable, owners and lessors of premises on which any WSF activity takes place (each considered one of the releases) from all liability, claims, demands, losses, or damages on my account caused or alleged to be caused in whole or in part by the negligence of "releases" or otherwise, including negligent rescue operations, and further agree that if despite this release and waive of liability, assumption of risk, and indemnity agreement, I/we or anyone on my/our behalf, makes a claim against any of the releases, I will indemnify, save and hold harmless each of the releases from any litigation expenses, attorney's fees, loss, liability, damage, or cost which may incur as the result of such a claim.
5.3.2 Organizers holding a sanctioned competition or event shall include the following on all entry forms:
“I/We acknowledge the WSF Administrative Procedures for complaints, hearings, appeals, etc as set out in the WSF code. Prior to instituting litigation and/or arbitration, I/we submit any matters related to the WSF code through such administrative procedures and will exhaust same prior to proceeding with any litigation and/or arbitration.”
5.3.3 An organizer of an WSF Salsa sanctioned competition shall publish (as part of advance materials and as part of the event program) a complete list of competitive categories, the dances for each competitive category, dress code requirements, and any special rules or departures from WSF Salsa prescribed Rules pertaining to the categories or events.
5.3.4 Said special rules or departures from WSF Salsa Rules shall require the advance written approval of the WSF Salsa National Director or Rules Committee.
5.3.5 For all categories with limitations of steps or material to be danced, the organizer shall publish an acceptable step list for those categories or shall publish the name of an accepted syllabus, which contains such a step list.
5.3.6 Copies of all promotional information relating to the event shall be sent to the WSF DanceSport National Director as soon as it becomes available. Should there be any required changes in the promotional materials in order to conform to WSF Salsa rules or sanction, the organizer agrees to publish said changes in a timely manner at his or her cost.
5.4 Event Officials
5.4.1 An organizer of a local or regional WSF Salsa sanctioned event shall furnish the WSF National Sports Director and shall make available to inquiring parties the list of qualified adjudicators at least sixty (60) days prior to the event.
5.4.2 For national and international events, the organizer shall submit a proposed list of adjudicators for the events to the WSF International Directory at least one hundred twenty days (120) days prior to the event. The WSF Salsa Committee retains the right to require the organizer to modify his list of judges and will provide its objections in writing. Unless the organizer receives a written objection sixty (60) days or more prior to the event, the proposed list of adjudicators shall be deemed acceptable.
5.4.3 No Individual, Official, Competition Organizer, or Organization shall:
a) Discriminate against any Athlete with a valid WSF registration on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, or national origin (except that closed competitions with specified age limits, membership or residency requirements are permitted, as are invitational events).
b) Deny or threaten to deny any eligible Athlete with a valid WSF registration the opportunity to participate in competitive events for which he or she is eligible if he or she has adhered to all requirements of the COMPETITOR'S RESPONSIBILITIES section of the RULES FOR COMPETITOR’S.
5.5 Competitor Regulations
5.5.1 Organizers of WSF Salsa sanctioned events shall require Athletes to provide their:
a) Name
b) Address
c) Phone number
d) WSF membership number
e) Categories entered
f) Adult signature to statement of indemnification.
5.5.2 Organizers must obtain the prior written approval of a parent or legal guardian for any Athlete participating under 18 years of age.
5.5.3 All prizes, expense reimbursements, etc. to be given to Athletes at a WSF Salsa sanctioned event shall be included in the organizers' application for WSF Salsa sanction and shall be subject to the written approval of the WSF National Salsa Director.
5.6 Additional Rules
An organizer of a WSF Salsa sanctioned event shall be responsible for the observance of the following:
5.6.1 A copy of the current WSF SALSA RULEBOOK shall be available for public inspection at the event.
5.6.2 The organizer shall post a timetable of scheduled events prior to the commencement of the event. The timetable shall be adhered to with delays kept to a minimum. Competitors must be notified, by public announcements, of delays in excess of thirty (30) minutes.
5.6.3 Any change to a previously published schedule of heats shall not exceed 30 minutes earlier or later, unless all registered Athletes are notified in advance.
5.6.4 Should the organizer wish to run a heat earlier than the posted time, he shall do so only with not less than fifteen (15) minutes advance notice to each and every Athlete in the category, plus a public announcement of the change. Public announcement only of the change shall NOT be considered adequate notice to the Athletes.
5.6.5 The organizer shall provide adequate and separate changing facilities for male and female Athletes.
5.6.6 The organizer is required to adhere to the categories; dances, etc. specified in the promotional materials unless registered competitors affected by the change are notified in advance.
5.7 Warm-Up Requirements
The organizer of a national or international competition shall comply with at least one of the following:
5.7.1 In all Open categories, Athletes shall be given non‑adjudicated, restricted to entrants only, warm‑up time on the actual competition floor of not less than one minute of correct tempo music for the first dance in each round to be adjudicated. The warm‑up period shall be granted immediately prior to the commencement of each elimination round of the category.
5.7.2 The requirement for the warm‑up period may be waived by the Chairman of Judges PROVIDED the organizer has provided a separate warm‑up area of size not less than 30% of the size of the actual competition floor and of the same type of floor surface as the actual competition floor.
5.8 Event Reporting
Within thirty (30) days after the event the organizer shall submit to the WSF National Salsa Director a complete written report on the event including, but not limited to:
a) The Master Scrutinizing Sheets or copies thereof, bearing the signatures of the Chairman of Judges and the head Scrutinizer;
b) An accurate and complete list of all Athletes' registrations.
c) New WSF membership applications and membership fees.
d) The results of each and every category.
e) A detailed description of any prizes awarded to Salsa Athletes, including the names of the individuals and any amounts awarded.
f) The list of the judges for each category and their code letter on the marking sheets.
g) A copy of the program corrected and completed.
5.9 Announcement of Results
5.9.1 At WSF Salsa sanctioned events, only the Chairman of Judges and the Scrutinizer(s) shall have access to the judging marks until after the category is completed and the results have been announced. Thereafter, the Master Scrutinizer Sheets or copies thereof shall be made available for public inspection.
5.9.2 The announcement of placement and awarding of prizes should be done as soon after the end of the final round as possible, and within 90 minutes.
5.9.3 After each round preceding the final round, the identifying numbers of the couples who will be called back to the next round shall be posted or otherwise made available to the Salsa Athletes as soon as possible before the beginning of next round.
6 Rules for Competition Officials
The following is a description of the responsibilities for each official at WSF Salsa Competitions. The governance of these officials is the responsibility of the organizations of which they are members.
6.1 All Officials
No Competition Officials shall:
a) Discriminate against any Athlete with a valid WSF registration on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, or national origin.
b) Deny or threaten to deny any eligible Athlete with a valid WSF registration the opportunity to participate in competitive events for which he or she is eligible if he or she has adhered to all requirements of the COMPETITOR'S RESPONSIBILITIES section of the RULES FOR COMPETITOR'S.
c) Give coaching to any competitor during the entire period of time commencing at 12:00am on the day of the first competitive session and concluding with the end of the last session exclusive of Lectures, Seminars, or Workshops scheduled by the organizer and open to all competitors.
d) Create any appearance of impropriety by engaging in conversations with competitors or their coaches until after the completion of the competition.
e) Discuss the performance of a competitor with any individual except the chairman of judges until after the completion of the competition.
6.2 Chairman of Judges
6.2.1 The Chairman of Judges shall be responsible for determining the maximum number of Amateur Athletes per heat or round which can be accommodated on the floor and by the adjudicating panel without impairing the quality of the dancing or the safety of the Salsa Athletes as well as the number of rounds after consultation with the organizer.
6.2.1.1 The maximum number of couples permitted per heat in Open events shall not exceed fourteen (14).
6.2.2 The Chairman of Judges shall ensure that the round is split into heats as required when the number of Amateur Salsa Athletes competing at one time would cause the quality of the dancing or their safety to be impaired.
6.2.3 The Chairman of Judges shall be responsible to ensure that the music and tempi are in observance of the requirements set forth in the TECHNICAL RULES OF COMPETITION.
6.2.4 The Chairman of Judges is responsible for the proper implementation of the scoring system to include the following:
a) Instructing judges on the points of evaluation and the scoring system.
b) Correct interpretation of the marks after each heat and verification that they have been correctly transcribed.
c) Referring any scorecard requiring correction to the adjudicator concerned.
d) Signing all Final Summary Marking Sheets.
6.2.5 The Chairman of Judges shall be responsible for excusing any judge from officiating when he or she feels that the judge's sound judgment may be impaired.
6.2.6 The Chairman of Judges shall have the authority to disqualify, per concurrence of the ranking WSF Salsa official (if in attendance), any Salsa Athlete or Team deemed to have violated any of the RULES FOR COMPETITORS during the competition.
6.2.7 In all matters relating to the conduct of the competition, questions on judges' markings, and changes in program scheduling, the Chairman's decision shall be final.
6.3 Judges
6.3.1 A qualified judge shall be any person certified as a Salsa judge by a member of the WSF.
6.3.2 Judges shall make independent evaluations and markings without consultation or discussion of Amateur Athletes' performance(s) with other judges, spectators, coaches, and other Athletes until after the final round of the category.
6.3.3 During the adjudication process, judges of the round may move about to enhance their perspective of the Athletes, but shall not stand or be seated together during the actual conduct of the round with the exception and Formation Team events.
6.3.4 Judges shall mark Athletes solely on their performance in the dance that is being adjudicated at the time. No consideration of titles, reputation, previous performances in other events, preceding rounds, or preceding dances are admissible.
6.3.5 Judges shall make and sign a scorecard for each heat of which they are an adjudicator.
6.4 Scrutineer
6.4.1 The Scrutinizing Examining Committee recognized by the WSF should certify the Scrutinizer.
6.4.2 The Scrutinizer is responsible for tabulating the judges’ markings and compiling the competition results. These will then be presented to the Chairman of Judges for verification and signature.
6.5 INVIGILATOR
6.5.1 A qualified invigilator shall be any person certified as a Salsa judge by a member of the WSF.
6.5.2 The Invigilator shall watch all rounds of all events, which have a restricted syllabus, and shall report any violations of that syllabus to the Chairman of Judges.
7 SALSA
7.1 DEFINITION
Salsa competitions and events are defined as follows:
a) Salsa Championship Singles School Figure Competitions
b) Salsa Undisputed Championship Couple Competitions
c) Salsa Cabaret Championship Competitions
d) Salsa Shine Championship Single Competitions
e) Salsa Team Championship Competitions
f) Salsa Pro/Am Championship Competitions
7.1.1 The WSF endorses breaking on one and two only as the standard for Salsa competitions, with the exception of Salsa Cabaret, Salsa Shine, and Salsa Team competitions which allows participants to compete on any beat or style and allows lifts and drops (anything goes!) Breaking on one for competitions in no way discredits other styles of Salsa or the beats that they break on.
7.2 TECHNICAL RULES OF COMPETITION
Except as specified in this section, all Salsa Technical Rules of Competition apply to Salsa competitions.
7.2.1 SALSA CHAMPIONSHIP SINGLE SCHOOL FIGURE COMPETITIONS
7.2.1.1 Singles competitions are offered in the following Syllabus categories only, with the exception of Salsa Shines:
a) Bronze
b) Silver
c) Gold
7.2.1.2 In the semi-final round the couples will dance 1 time with music provided by the WSF as follows:
a) All the couples will be on the floor at the same time for a 1 minute 30 seconds;
7.2.1.3 In the final round the couples will dance 3 times with music provided by the WSF as follows:
a) All the couples will be on the floor at the same time for a 1 minute 30 seconds;
7.2.1.4 Only figures from the World Salsa Federation (WSF) syllabus step lists as well as other approved syllabi will be allowed in the syllabus events (Bronze, Silver, and Gold) for Salsa.
7.2.1.5 Costumes are permitted and encouraged.
7.2.2 SALSA UNDISPUTED CHAMPIONSHIP COUPLE COMPETITIONS
7.2.2.1 Costumes are permitted and encouraged.
7.2.2.2 Lifts are not allowed however drops are allowed in the junior, youth, and adult categories only.
7.2.3 SALSA CABARET CHAMPIONSHIP COUPLE COMPETITIONS
7.2.3.1 Lifts and drops are allowed in the youth and adult categories only.
7.2.3.2 Costumes are permitted and encouraged.
7.2.3.3 The competitors must provide their music to the Organizers on a CD format or thumb drive in advance.
7.2.3.4 At least 75% of the routine has to be recognizable salsa.
7.2.3.5 The maximum time for routines is 3 minutes, including entrances and exits.
7.2.4 SALSA SHINE CHAMPIONSHIP SINGLE COMPETITIONS
7.2.4.1 There is no discrimination between Male and Female.
7.2.4.2 Costumes are permitted and encouraged.
7.2.4.3 In the preliminary rounds the contestants will dance with music provided by the Organizer as follows:
a) The first time all the athletes will be on the floor at the same time for a 1 minute;
b) The second time the athletes will be on the floor in groups of three at a time for 1 minute and 30 seconds.
c) The third time all the athletes will again be on the floor for a final comparison for 1 minute 30 seconds.
7.2.4.4 In the final round competitors will dance individually to their own music provided to the Organizer in CD format in advance for a minimum of 2 minutes and a maximum of 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
7.2.5 SALSA TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITIONS
7.2.5.1 Teams must consist of at least 3 people of any gender combination.
7.2.5.2 Lifts and drops are allowed in youth and adult categories only
7.2.5.3 Costumes are permitted and encouraged.
7.2.5.4 The teams must provide their music to the Organizers on a CD format in advance.
7.2.5.5 At least 75% of the routine has to be recognizable salsa.
7.2.5.6 Additional restrictions and rules, please see Rule 3.4
8 Appendix
8.1 Skating System of Judging
The following is a description of the Skating System of Judging, which is used in Salsa:
The Marking of Adjudicator's Cards
1. In all rounds each judge must vote for the number of couples demanded by the Chairman of Adjudicators.
2. In the Final round each judge shall place all the competing couples in order of merit in each of the dances.
3. In the Final round the judge shall mark his first couple 1, his second couple 2, his third 3, and so on in each of the dances.
4. A judge must not tie couples for any place in the Final of any dance.
Note: - Number of Couples to Dance in a Final
a) In the Final round the open system of marking may be used.
b) When judges are instructed to select six couples for a Final and six couples are clearly chosen only that number shall dance. The same procedure would be observed if the Chairman's instructions were for any other number.
c) If it is intended that six couples shall dance in a Final and through a tie more couples qualify for consideration the number to dance shall be decided by the Chairman. The same procedure would be observed if it is intended to have a Final of any other number.
The Allocation of Positions in Each Dance
5. The winner of a particular dance is the couple who is placed first by an absolute majority of the judges; second, the couple who is placed second or higher by an absolute majority. The remaining positions are allocated in a similar way.
If More than One Couple have a Majority for the Same Position
6. The couple with the largest majority shall be allocated the position under review, and the couple with the next largest majority, the following position.
Note: If the position under review is the "2nd" and two couples have a majority of "2nd and higher" places, the couple with the larger majority shall be placed "2nd" and the other couple "3rd".
We now examine the remaining competitors' markings, and the couple with the largest majority of "3rd and higher" places shall be allocated the next position, which in this example, is the "4th".
If none of the remaining couples has a majority of "3rd and higher" places, then include the "4th" places (and, if necessary, lower places).
If Two or More Couples have an Equal Majority for the Same Position
7. a) If such majorities are equal, then the lowest total of marks given by those judges who form the majority, shall determine the allocation of the position under review.
Note: If the position under review is the "2nd" and two couples have a similar majority of "2nd and higher" places, the couple with the lower total of marks given by those judges who form the majority, shall be allocated the "2nd" position and the other couple the "3rd".
See Notes under Rule 6.
b) If the totals of marks are equal, then the next lower place (or places,
if necessary), in respect of the particular couples concerned, must be included.
Note: It should be noted that only the couples that have a majority for the position under review (say, for example, the "2nd" position) must be considered at this stage, and only their "3rd" places (and, if necessary, lower places) should be referred to, until the "2nd" position has been allocated.
A definite result will eventually be obtained unless the remaining markings are exactly the same, and should the latter be the case, there will, of course, be a tie for "2nd" position. If two couples were concerned, they would be allocated "2 1/2" each.
See Notes under Rule 6.
If No Couple receives a Majority for the Position Under Review
8. If no couple receives a majority of "Firsts" then the winner is the couple who are placed "2nd and higher" by a majority of judges.
If no couple receives a majority of "1st" and "2nd" places, then the "3rd" places (and if necessary, lower places) must be included. (Subject to Rules 6 and 7.)
The "2nd" and other positions should be calculated in a similar way.
Compilation of the Final Summary
9. When all the dances have been concluded, the order ascertained for each dance shall be carried to another sheet, showing the position achieved by each couple in each dance. The first in each dance shall be given one mark, the second two, and so on. These place marks received by each couple shall be added up and the couple with the lowest aggregate shall be the winner.
If there is a Tie for a Place in the Final Summary
10. If this results in a tie for first place, the winner shall be the couple who has actually won the greater number of dances.
a) If there is a tie for the "2nd" place, the "2nd" prize shall be awarded to the couple who has obtained "2nd and higher" in the greatest number of dances. If the couples have obtained the same number of "2nd and higher" place marks, then add the "2nd and higher" place marks together and the couple with the lowest total should be awarded second prize.
Note: If more than two couples tie for second place, the second prize shall be awarded to the couple that has obtained the most "2nd and higher" place marks. Still only considering the remaining "tied" couples, the "3rd" prize is awarded to the couple who has won the most "3rd and higher" place marks.
b) If there is a tie for any remaining places they shall be decided on similar principles.
11. If after applying Rules 9 and 10 this still results in a tie, then treat the judges' marks of the "tied" couples over all dances, as for an individual dance (Rules 5 to 8). If this still results in a tie, there shall be at the discretion of the organizers of the competition, either a re-dance or the prizes for the places under review shall be divided.
d) If the tie is for first place, a majority of "1st" marks to the credit of either of the "tied" couples (4 dances-5 judges-majority 11) would win. If neither of the "tied" couples obtain a majority of "firsts" see Rule 8.
e) If the tie is for second place, a majority of "2nd and higher" marks to the credit of either of the "tied" couples would be necessary. If neither of the "tied" couples obtain a majority of "2nd and higher" marks see Rule 8.
f) The "3rd" or any other "tied" places should be decided on similar principles.
g) If 3 (or more) couples tie for a place under Rule 10 (say, 2nd place) Rule 11 is applied to all couples concerned in the tie, and the best couple is awarded the "2nd" place. Rule 10 is now applied to the remaining "tied" couples for consideration of the place now under review, which is the "3rd". However, if they now tie for "3rd" place under Rule 10, then Rule 11 is again applied to these "tied" couples, commencing this time with the "3rd and higher" judge's marks in the individual dances.
OFFICIAL WSF STEP LIST
BRONZE SYLLABUS
1. Basic Movements
4. Cumbia Step (5th Position Breaks)
A. Forward and Back
5. Di Le Que No (Cross Body Lead)
B. Guapeo
6. Enchufa
2. Cucaracha
7. Coca Cola (Reverse Turn From CBL)
3. Under Arm Turns
8. Double Enchufa (Stop and Go)
A. Turn From Basic
9. Alternating Enchufa Turns
B. Turn From Open Break
10. Exhibela
C. Male Turn From Basic
11. Natural Top
D. Alternating Turns - Ladies First
12. Adios
E. Alternating Turns - Man First, Change Of Hands Behind The Back
SILVER SYLLABUS
1. Alternative Basic
a. Cuban Hook
2. Vacilala
b. Male head loop
3. Vacilense
c. Female head loop
4. Siete (7)
9. Basic Wrap Around
5. Numero Dos (shadow cumbias)
10. Setenta Complicado
6. Dedo
11. Reverse Top
7. Sombrero
12. Advanced Setenta
8. Setenta (70)
GOLD SYLLABUS
1. The Tunnel
6. Alternating Side Runs And Breaks
2. Reverse Top and Swivels
7. Double Coca Cola with Sombreros
3. Advanced Wrap Around
8. Rolling In Arm Combination
4. La Capa
9. Around The World
5. Vuelta Por Detras
BRONZE SALSA SHINES
1. Cuban Breaks
2. Hops (A) Forward (B) Back
3. Suzie Q and Chase
4. The Taps
5. Back Walks and Rocks
6. Hop Taps
7. Cumbia Syncopations
8. Cross Cucarachas with Toe Heels
9. Kick Flicks
10. Heel Toe and Swivels
SILVER SALSA SHINES
1. Cross Kick
2. Salsa Jazz
3. Perestroika
4. Cross Toes
5. Advanced Taps
6. Cross Jumps
7. Colombian Shine
8. Sabor
9. Swivels and Ripples
10. Muevelo
