Season 4 ECD Elite Competition Team

Packet and Contract2015-2016

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Index

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Index……………………………………………………………… Page 1

About and Contact Information………………………………… Page 2

Parent Letter……………………………………………………… Page 3

Welcome to the Team…………………………………………... Page 4

Commitment……………………………………………………… Page 5

Dancer Conduct…………………………………………………. Page 6-8

Parent Conduct…………………………………………………. Page 9-10

Performances……………………………………………………. Page 11-12

Practice Etiquette and Attire……………………………………. Page 13-14

Attendance Policy………………………………………………. Page 15-16

Team Techniques......................……………………………….. Page 17-18

Muscle Building and Health…………………………………… Page 19-20

Fundraisers……………………………………………………… Page 21

Competition……………………………………………………… Page 22-23

Competition Schedule and Details……………………………. Page 24

Expenses and Due Dates……………………………………… Page 25

Dancer Signature Sheet……………………………………….. Page 26(Return to Director make extra copy for self)

Parent Signature Sheet………………………………………… Page 27(Return to Director make extra copy for self)

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About and Contact InformationOur Mission:

Our Mission for Ellensburg Community Dance is to promote a safe, fun, and learning atmosphere that will help our dancers build dance knowledge, leadership, confidence, work ethic, commitment, understanding, kindness, and positive choices that will help earn them a better future. Ellensburg Community Dance works towards keeping our youth out of trouble, teaching them how to stay active and healthy, how to have trust in themselves and others, and most importantly, how to love themselves and the positive choices they make.

The E.C.D. Elite Competition Team has all the above, but more. You will work harder, longer, and receive many more accomplishments and achieve higher goals. We work toward the success of the individual, the whole team, and the success at Competition.

Contact Information:Samantha Grover

Phone number: (509)-607-3887Address: 1118 E. 3rd Ave Ellensburg, WA 98926E-mail: sgroverecdp@hotmail.comWebsite: Ellensburgcommunitydance.weebly.com

Practice Days and times:Determined by season and scheduling

Resources: We use Google Calendar and Drive for many of our needs. The calendar, forms, files, excels, videos, and helpful recourses can be accessed through these tools. Facebook is another valuable tool, but needs to be used wisely and maturely. It is wise to have dancers and parents have both a Google and Facebook account.

Closures: Closures may happen due to weather, fundraisers, bonding trips, and

medical/family emergencies.

Dance Season:September - June

Competition Season:November - May

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Parent Letter

Dear Parents,

Here’s a great introduction to the E.C.D. Elite Competition Team and a new, exciting year to you and your dancer! The year ahead will create so many wonderful memories, experiences, and challenges for your dancer and we are all really looking forward to the 2015-2016 season. We had many wonderful experiences in the past seasons, learned a lot of what to keep and what to improve upon, had many performance opportunities, and look forward to many more. This past year has shed light on what, I, the Director need to do in order to make this program the best it can be for both the dancers and myself. There are many changes this year, many of which are very exciting! Each season we have a lot of fun, but also work extremely hard to prepare our dancers and get them caught up to an advanced level of dance. This is because each year we compete against those who have extensive dance backgrounds. Every year our dancers compete against studios and academies that have 5-15 years of training. Our dancers consistently prove that by working together and pushing toward our goals, we can dance right alongside them. Even though we have returning members that are continuing to improve, we have those who are new to the team and only have one year. It will take a lot of dedication, but I know it can be done and the results will leave you and your dancer with a feeling of achievement, success, and being proud of your role on the team. Encouraging your dancer to not give up and to continue is extremely important to their success and the success of the team, the team is only as strong as the least willing participate physically, mentally, and emotionally. All the team members will take part in bonding activities and starting this year go and support each other in other aspects outside of dance such as sporting events, FFA, Choir, etc...I hope you find this packet helpful and informative. With a background in the competitive dance world, I will help your dancer try and gain the skills and confidence required to perform at competition, feeling prepared. They however need to also put in the work, it is a team effort.

Here is to a great competition season!

Sincerely,

Samantha GroverE.C.D. Director, Coach, and Choreographer

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Welcome to the Team!Welcome to the 2015-2016 Elite Competition Team! The first year we have become Elite! If you are reading this packet, congratulations, you have made the team! Your performance at auditions and potential from what we saw made us believe you will bring a special spark to our team. I am so excited for the E.C.D. Elite Competition Team season 4 to begin. There are so many experiences you will have in the next year that will last a life time. The road to competition will not be easy. There may be some practices you will not like, some you wonder what you got yourself into, glare and seethe at the leaders, get hurt, and even want to quit. Mrs. Grover will tell you what you need to hear and be completely honest with your performance while trying to find the best way to help you become your best. Sometimes you will not like what you hear or like being pushed so hard, but it is because Mrs. Grover cares, if she didn't care, she would let the dancers go out and look like a bunch of unprepared and unpolished dancers. These practices are completely normal and necessary, but the best dancers and performers are those who stick with it, keep going with a smile on their face, feel gratitude for what they are learning and achieving, push through the pain, and come out on top feeling proud of what they have accomplished. Not to worry though, we have many times where we are on the floor from laughing so hard and joking around. We will have times that we take a break from all the hard work. There are so many fundraisers, bonding activities, and trips we have planned over the next year that we hope will keep you motivated and loving the team you are on.This packet is your guide to becoming the best you can be. Read it often, use the information, and when you have a rough practice come back to this page and remember why you work so hard to get where we need to be. As stated earlier, you have one year to make up at least 5 years of training. This will be possible, but it will take commitment and hard work. I am so happy to have you on the team and am looking forward to getting to know you more and help you be the best team member you can possibly be.

Coach Grover

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Commitment With being part of the team there was the word commitment brought up. The

definition of commitment is “an agreement or pledge to do something in the future b: something pledged”.

You, as an Elite Competition member have made a pledge to work hard, be present, and be ready for the 2015-2016 Competition Season.

We at E.C.D. do not take your commitment lightly. We run as a studio dance team, but do not charge a fee for your lessons or commitment. You do however have to pay for competition and all the costs that go along with it.

If you continue on as an Elite Competition member you must adhere to all the rules, regulations, attendance policy, fundraisers, and work hard to achieve yours and the team’s goals.

You will be required to attend all team functions, events, practices, and performances unless given prior excusal (graded school activities, family death, or you are very ill are excusable reasons). Please do not continue on with this team if you know you do not want to make this commitment. There will be a fee if you sign this contract and break it, quit the team, or are removed from the team. Read the packet carefully and decide your commitment level. You are more than welcome to stay with the Ellensburg Dance Program on the Performance Team if you decide that the Competition Team is not for you.

This contract is subject to change after every 3 month session period so please recheck and if changes have been made a new signature sheet will need to be turned in.

If you do make the decision to stay with the Elite Comp. Team, we will work as hard as we can (without it affecting the team) to support you and help you with any needs or problems you are having on the team or with practice and attendance.

I understand doing school sports is not only important to help you become a well-rounded individual but character building, but doing multiple school and outside activities and the competition team may prove challenging. Please consider what your school schedule and summer schedule are and will be like.

Signing up for a non-graded after school activity/non-school related activity after auditioning for competition team and or signing the contract will not allow for excusable absences from practices, events, or performances.

A small monthly studio fee to a rental studio will be due at the beginning of every month.

A uniform fee of $50 will be due within a month of joining the team. Being at all performance practices is a must, dancers must be committed to

making their performances the best the team can. Being on the Competition Team is an amazing experience, but a commitment,

not only to yourself, but to the team and the Director. You must share in that commitment.

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Dancer Conduct

A. By being an Elite Competition Team member, you accept that your actions are more important than those not on the team and not associated with E.C.D.

B. Because of this and the fact that you are representing Samantha Grover, E.C.D. and yourself, exemplary behavior is mandatory at all times. Not just at dance events, practices, or performances. Anywhere you go in our community you are a representative.

C. Dancers must have hair between the start of their armpits to the middle of their back. This can be either natural or by hair extensions, but hair must not be cut shorter than below shoulder length.

D. Dancers must practice good grooming and personal hygiene. Legs and armpits must be either shaved or waxed prior to competitions.

E. No body piercings of any kind or tattoos may be worn/showing during competition.

F. Dancers must not use foul language at practices, community events, camps, competitions, and even on social media websites (i.e. Facebook, twitter, instagram, snapchat, etc.).

G. Excessive public displays of affection are never considered appropriate, especially in uniform, or at any E.C.D. or Elite event, performance, or practice.

H. The use of ANY drug, alcohol consumption, and smoking is not allowed at any time. You are dancing on a competitive level team, you need to be taking care of your bodies and staying healthy.

I. If you are suspected of drug use, you will be spoken with and subjected to a drug test at your doctor's office with your parents’ resources.

a. If the test shows up positive and you lied about using drugs, you will be removed from the team.

b. If you are honest, you will not be removed from the team, but will be placed on probation and subjected to another random screening. If you do not pass a random screening, you will be removed from the team.

J. Random drug testing for Elite Dance Team Members who compete at UDA/NDA events is permitted. This goes for all the E.C.D. Elite Competition members. Random testing will happen with giving parents notice of the test needing to happen. Parents will need to call into their provider's office and make an appointment to have the test done and then a copy of the test made saying if they passed or failed with the Doctor's signature.

K. If you are suspected of Alcohol or Tobacco use, you will be given one warning.a. If you are suspected a second time you will be placed on probation.b. If you are suspected a third time, you will be removed from the team.

L. Members must display proper behavior at all events, practices, and performances, including avoiding tardiness, and not skipping for inexcusable reasons.

M. Disrespectful attitudes towards parents and coach will not be tolerated.

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N. If a team member exceeds the number of excused (9 in a 3 month period) absences, if tardiness becomes an issue, or they have an unexcused absence, they will be placed on probation. If they continue the above, the will be removed from the team.

O. Parents will be informed of problematic situations.P. Poor conduct/behavior under any of the above circumstances could result in

dismissal from the team. Inappropriate behaviors not only reflect on the individual, but the team. No one is irreplaceable or indispensable. If you are not willing to work hard on the team, you will be replaced by another who will work hard and be a positive member of the team.

Q. If it is in the best interest of the team that an individual/s be removed from a performance or from the team, this action will be taken by the Director, Assistants, and Captain of the team. This may be for safety reasons, attitude, drama, not following the rules, or commitment issues.

R. If you do not show adequate improvement and commitment consistently, you will be removed from the team.

S. If you receive 5 director demerits, you will be placed on probation.a. Tardinessb. Attitudec. Gossipd. Failure to bring your binder or any other item that is required at practice.

T. If you receive 6 director demerits, you will be removed from the team.U. You are expected to clean up after yourself everywhere we go. V. This is a place of learning, team building, goal reaching, and safety. All drama

and issues need to be left outside the door.W. If you start causing drama or turmoil on the team you will have a meeting with the

Director and team Captains, after that probation, and finally removal from the team.

X. Respect toward the Captains is essential. If you cannot be respectful and gracious toward your Captain your time on the team will be short lived. Mrs. Grover will never allow a Captain to stay in Captaincy that is not deserving or not fulfilling their responsibilities, therefore there is no reason that team members should be disrespectful, rude, over stepping boundaries, rolling eyes, mumbling under their breathe, yelling, screaming, threatening, etc...

Y. In turn Captains need to be humble, respectful to the Director and teammates, kind and courteous to one another, hardworking, willing to put in more hours than the rest, willing to be the "bad guy" and hand out demerits or "slackoffs" (S.O.s).

Z. Respect for yourself is just as important as respect for the team. Words that you are not allowed to say while you are a member of the team…

a. Fatb. Uglyc. Dumbd. Retardede. Stupidf. “I can’t do that” or “I can’t do this”g. Freak

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h. Gay – as in “you’re gay” or “that is gay”i. Shut upj. Suck – as in “you suck” or “this sucks” or “I suck”

AA. There will be no name calling, making fun of someone on the team or part of the team, and no laughing at people for catty reasons. You are all learning and growing together; you need to be supportive and encouraging.

BB. You will have a dance binder and water bottle that will need to be brought to every practice, event, and performance.

CC. You must have the parent and dancer contract and registration form signed before participating. Other forms that need to be turned in are the medical information form and the media release form. If you fail to have your contract signed, and turned in on time you will be removed from the team. Any payments made will be forfeit, and any payments not made will be billed.

DD. This year I will be checking to see if your parents did sign your forms as we have now had three students in the past forge parent signatures. This can be a liability issue for your parents or the program if something were to happen.

EE. Any dancer involved in any type of fight (verbal or physical), whether they started it or not, will immediately be removed from the team.

FF. Any dancer who starts rumors about another dancer, the dance team, staff, or program will automatically be removed from the team

GG. Any threats or harmful behavior towards a team member or staff member will result in your immediate removal from the team.

HH. If you purchase an item/s and are removed from or quit the team, and the item has not been handed out, your item will be returned and the money will go toward E.C.D. or a new dancer will purchase the item and the money will go toward the E.C.D program and scholarship, even if you return.

II. If you are removed from or quit the team and you have items that were purchased by the director the item/s will need to be returned. You have one month to return the items. After that you will be billed for the price of the item/s.

JJ. Any member who openly speaks baldy about another member, staff member, coach, parent, or any aspect of E.C.D. in public while on this team will first be spoken with and receive a warning. If the incident happens again it will result in probation. A third violation will result in removal of the team.

KK. Any member who leaves the team whether on a good note or unhappy note and bashes any member, staff, or aspect of E.C.D. will not be welcomed back.

LL.You are a team and in order to achieve and succeed together you must learn to trust each other. Stand up for one another and support each other inside and outside of dance. If people are being rude to or towards your dance sisters/brothers walk away or kindly stand up for them.

MM. Be the best that you can be every single practice and performance. Take what you are given and constantly try to improve and progress.

Parent Conduct

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A. It is our policy at E.C.D. therefore continues on with the Elite Competition Team to keep an open line of communication. Staff will not be able to talk right before, during, or right after practices, events, or performances. They need to focus on the entire team. Please notify the Director or person you wish to speak with and they will let you know which day to come 15 minutes early to discuss the issue at hand.

B. Parents should never call competition companies, talk to judges about their decisions, or have unnecessary outbursts at competitions, events, performances, etc. This is a reflection of the E.C.D. Elite Competition Team.

C. Parents should help the staff enforce rules and guidelines when necessary.D. Please refrain from hearsay and gossip. It causes unnecessary problems.

Positive attitudes are encouraged. Remember that the dancers are affected by what we say and how we act. We all need to be role models for these young men and women.

E. It is your responsibility as the dancers’ parent to encourage, empower, empathize, and support your dancer at all times.

F. Encourage your dancer to eat healthy and make good personal choices. G. Mrs. Grover is more than happy to help support you with your disciplinary

decisions as long as they are appropriate. H. Understand that your influence and attitude reflects onto your dancer and will be

noticed by all those on the team. I. If a dancer is having a problem with someone on the team, please encourage

them to use their words and speak with that dancer in person one on one or with the Director’s supervision. Please do not encourage violence, cattiness, or verbal abuse. This will result in probation and finally removal of the team.

J. All practices are CLOSED practices. This means that when warm up begins parents and all other family members (unless not talking directly to Mrs. Grover) need to let their dancer do their thing and pick them back up and the posted time. This will not change unless approved by the Director for specific reasons.

K. Practices end when the Director dismissed practices at the end of our time frame, this does not mean your dancer will be out to the car right at the end of our time frame. Please allow your dancer a few min to pack up their belongings and make their way out to your vehicle.

L. Dancers will be required to put their phones on silent from the time practice starts until the time practice ends so if you need to get a hold of your dancer you will need to contact Mrs. Grover.

M. All funds not raised by your dancer will need to be paid out of pocket and due on the dates listed. It is your responsibility to help your dancer earn as much money so that you will not have to pay out of pocket.

N. All parents are required to help at all events that they are able to since Mrs. Grover is always in need of helping hands as she does not have a staff.

O. The Director’s decisions are final. Your opinion is respected, but most likely will not sway the Director’s decisions.

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P. Please encourage and support your dancer to practice on their “Break”. Dancers still need to be stretching and practicing daily.

Q. Pulling your child out of dance a week before a performance is not permitted, it takes extra time and is very stressful for the coach and dancers to change choreography. If you remove your child less than 8 days from a performance you will be fined $30.

R. Any failure to comply with this contract will also result in a $30 fee.S. Any balance not paid whether a fee, costume, competition fee, etc., after 60 days

(unless discussed with Mrs. Grover) will result in a bill for that amount being sent out. If you fail to pay your bill after 30 days of receiving the bill a late fee will be added to your bill, you will have 15 days from there to pay. If a payment has not been received it will be sent to collections. We are registered as a business under Washington State and in Ellensburg, therefore we will send your debt to a local collection agency.

T. It is understandable that young people get into trouble and have punishments, but using dance against your dancer as a form of punishment will not only hinder your dancer, but her/his teammates. We ask that you not keep your dancer away from practice, performances, or events due to being grounded or other punishments without the understanding that this will possibly result in a loss of performance, being fined, and also possibly causing the team members to have added stress if a performance is coming up. If a football coach had a player miss practice because he was in trouble he would not be playing Friday's game. It is a hard place to be in as a coach and parent and boundaries do not want to be overstepped, but we want what is best for our dancers and program.

U. If you pull your child from competition, all funds raised will go to other dancers.V. If your child quits dance for any reason, their funds raised from events and

fundraisers will be forwarded to the scholarship fund. W. If you pay for a uniform and your child quits dance before they receive the items

or the items are ordered, the items will be considered forfeits and the items will go to a scholarship need.

X. Parents must keep updated on Google and on the parent facebook if they want to be informed. We have had parents complain about no communication, when they have not been on either of these tools. Please utilize them as they are set up to help you and your dancer.

Y. Parent will not be allowed to be disrespectful to Mrs. Grover. This has happened numerous times and has had a negative impact not only on the Director, but the team members directly and indirectly. If you have an outburst you will be asked to leave.

Z. Please keep in mind that this is a FREE service to you and your child. Mrs. Grover is taking time from her life and family to give to your dancers. As much as she loves this job, sometimes it feels like people forget that it takes a lot of hard work and extra hours to keep it going. Your dancers are receiving such an amazing experience and service and it only runs smoothly and as well as it can when everyone works together and appreciates one another.

Performances

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The Elite Competition Team will be performing throughout the year, with and without the E.C.D. dancers. You will have half time performances for community events, EDA performances, football performances, basketball performances, and competition.

A. All performances are mandatory. Whether you are performing or not, missing a performance is not allowed (unless otherwise arranged). You are part of the team; therefore you will be there to support your teammates. If you miss a performance you will be placed on probation, after that you will be removed from the team.

B. If a dancer does not know the routine or is not ready, they will be taken out of the routine and asked to practice while the dance is run. If they show they built up their performance to the team ability, they will be able to perform. If not, they will perform at the next performance.

C. For non-competitive performances you must be at all 5 consecutive practices the week (or equivalent of our normal pre-performance practice amounts, whichever the coach sets) prior to the performance. For competitive performances you must be at all 10 practices the two weeks (or equivalent of our normal pre-performance practice amounts, whichever the coach sets. Out of state is 15 days) prior to the competition. Failure to do so will result in removal from the performance or competition. The only 100% excuse is hospitalization and immediate family death, even then you must show you are ready to perform. There have been extenuating circumstances where the Mrs. Grover has let the team vote on whether the dancer could perform or not. This is rare and only if the dancer voted on knows the dance and is crucial to the routine and the success of the team's performance.

D. If a dancer makes a commitment to competition and ends up not going (unless an emergency arises), they will not be allowed on the next Competition Team the following year.

E. Dancer must arrive at the scheduled time ready to perform. F. Dancers will need to buy their own makeup and keep it in their makeup bag.G. Continued tardiness and not being ready when you arrive can result in being

place on probation and finally removal of the team.H. Respect, good sportsmanship, and a kind disposition are mandatory at all

performances, practices, events, and towards coach, assistants, captain, lieutenant, teammates, parents, and you.

I. Mrs. Grover has a high standard for behavior and will not allow bad attitudes.J. The entire team will sit together at events and performances. K. Family and friends are allowed to sit with us, but they need to follow the same

guidelines set for you. If there are any curse words, bad attitudes, bullying, bad sportsmanship, or any inappropriate behavior they will be asked to leave and not return for the remainder of the time we are there.

L. Parent and dancer will not be allowed to have arguments or fights while at events or performances. If you are being disrespectful to your family, I will give you one warning, if it continues you will be pulled out of the performance. I believe in following through with discipline and will support your parent if you are in the wrong.

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M. Parents, if you are to start issues at events or performances you will be asked to leave. Any concerns or issues may be addressed afterward away from the dancers.

N. There will be absolutely no arguing with the Director, Assistants, or Parents in front of the dancers. This is not “Dance Moms” I will not tolerate immature behavior from adults or the dancers. Everyone who is part of the Elite Competition Team is a reflection of the Director and the Ellensburg Community Dance Program. If problems or issues arise, those involved will sit down outside of dance and discuss it like mature adults.

O. Dancers, if you are to start issues you will be sat out from the event or performance and disciplinary steps will ensue after the event.

P. If you receive 4 demerits, you will be worked out of routines until you can make them up.

Q. We have no control if a performance or competition is cancelled. If this is to happen to competition, we will try to have our money returned and find a different competition. Refunds however are never guaranteed.

R. Going to a different competition however may result in different plans, dates, and which category we compete in.

Practice Etiquette and Attire

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A. All practices are mandatory unless otherwise stated.B. Additional practices may be scheduled if needed. This will be done with as much

notice as possible. Dancers and parents must try to attend these as best as possible. Mrs. Grover will only add these if absolutely necessary.

C. Missing practices before a competition or performance will result in the dancers being worked out of the routine.

D. There will be extra practices the week of performances and competitions.E. Dancers may not leave practice early unless given prior approval. You must give

notice the day prior.F. Work, sports practices (if joined during competition season), or other activities

are not an excuse to miss practice. You have all been given notice of when dance practices are ahead of time. For work, please inform you work of your unavailable hours. However, if you had a job prior to joining the team, accommodations will be made. Competition Practice week you will need to be at practices.

G. Tardiness will not be tolerated. If you are more than 15 min. late you will be marked as absent.

H. No gum or soft drinks during practice.I. All personal items must be kept in your bags and lined up neatly against the

designated wall, or in the designated area. J. All phones MUST be kept on silent and in your bags. If you get your phone out or

if it goes off during practice you will receive a demerit.K. If you fail to bring appropriate dance items, you will be asked to either have them

brought or sit out.L. Absolutely NO jewelry is allowed during practices or performances. M. All practices are CLOSED practices unless arranged with the Director. The

Director will have guest dancers occasionally come to practice to help instruct.N. If you make a mess in the practice facility you will need to pick it up.O. No disrespectful attitudes will be allowed. You will be given one warning, from

there if it continues, you will be asked to leave or sit out for the remainder of practice.

P. If disrespectful attitudes or escalate to an unmanageable level you will be removed the team and not allowed to return to E.C.D. in the future.

Q. If the team is being disrespectful, have attitudes, or are unmanageable Mrs. Grover will stop practice and call parents to pick up dancers. At the next practice the dancers will be required to do a work out the entire practice.

Attire

A. Dancers are expected to wear dancer attire to all practices.B. Bottoms: Either black spandex shorts or black leggingsC. Tops: Either a black leo or a crop top. Tank tops or shirts can be worn over for

warm up and when needed. D. Shoes: Dance Paws and Jazz Shoes are their best options.

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E. Shorts that are loose or show your bum when bending over and shirts that are low cut are not acceptable for practice.

F. You may wear sweats and sweatshirts to stretch and warm up, but the director needs to see what your knees and feet are doing when executing technique.

a. In order to best help the dancer/s correctly learn and practice technique, stunts, and lifts, dancers must wear the above practice attire.

b. If religious reasons prevent you from wearing the above dress, please talk with the director, however, in most cases the dress code will still be the policy.

Some great online recourses are

discountdance.comjustforkix.comdancewearsolutions.com

Attendance Policy

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A. If you are repeatedly absent or tardy we will have a discussion on whether Competition Team is worth your while and whether you can compete at an upcoming competition. If it is starting to affect the team and your performances you will be taken out of routines and placed on probation. While on probation you will need to show that you are committed to the Competition Team.

B. The Director needs at least two hour notice that you will be absent. The more notice given, the better. Mrs. Grover is the first person who needs to receive notice. If you cannot get in touch with her, then try to reach one of your officers.

C. If you give notice less than two hours previous to practice, events, or a performance, you will be given a demerit.

D. Understand that being on an Elite Team is a team related activity, not an individual one. Missing practices or competitions has a negative effect on every member of the team.

E. Being a dancer on this competition team is your job, it needs to be treated as such.

F. You will only be given 9 absence allowances during a 3 month session period. G. Excused absences are as follows: Death or serious illness in the family, graded

school activities, and contagious illness (can’t get out of bed, vomiting, fever, can’t walk, etc.). If you are injured you still need to be at practice.

H. If you are in a sport before signing this contract we will work with you on being tardy and your absences. If you joined a sport, non-graded school activity, or other non-school activity after joining the team and or signing this or knew you would be doing both, you will need to try and figure out a way to manage both activities as best as possible. We believe being well rounded is very important especially in High School, so we will work with you as best we can, but you need to be as responsible and manage your schedule. That being said, the practice rules for pre-competition and performance will still apply.

I. School work and passing is very important. If you need to be doing homework, you can always bring it to practice and do it when you are not needed and during breaks.

J. If you get injured or miss practice due to the above illnesses, or a sport, a doctor’s note will need to be given to the Director before you begin practicing.

K. If you have a family function/vacation, you will need to give Mrs. Grover notice 2 weeks prior and a note from your parent needs to follow.

L. Please inform Mrs. Grover of any graded school function you will be attending that will cause you to miss practice.

M. We will be going to support fellow dance members so please give us dates of games, concerts, plays, contests, etc...

N. Missing practice without notice or an excusable reason will result in automatic probation. You all have phones or some form of communication, there should be no reason to not be able to reach Mrs. Grover or someone on the team.

O. While on probation you will be expected to attend all practices and events, be on time, and not have any demerits. If you fail to meet the probation requirements, you will be removed from the team.

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P. You will be given only two unexcused absence in the entire Competition Season. The first one results in probation, the second in removal from the Competition Team.

Q. Transportation issues are NOT an acceptable excuse for missing practice. Parents and dancers are responsible for their own transportation to and from practices, performances, and events. There are many dancers and parents who are part of our program. Always try obtaining a ride from someone before simply stating you cannot get a ride. Not coming to practice because you cannot get a ride will result in an unexcused absence.

R. Every dancer will receive a contact form and it is their responsibility to call teammates for transportation help.

S. For attendance policy pertaining to performances please see performance policy.

Team Techniques

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By Competition, you as an Elite Competition Team member, will need to have the below performed to the best of your ability. Videos will be posted on our Google to help guide you. This means that all techniques taught and practiced need to be practiced throughout the year, summer, and on your own time. If you fail to master important “all team” techniques you may be placed as an alternate instead of dancing.

A. Pirouettes B. Coupe Turns C. Attitude Turns D. A la Seconde Turns E. Pirouette into heal stretch turnF. Pirouette into attitude hold front turnG. Fondue attitude turn H. ArabesqueI. Arabesque Jump (sides and front facing to back)J. Tour jette (half and full)K. Tour jette into stagL. Illusion M. Tilt jump N. Star kick

A. Straight legsB. Top leg bent

O. Chaine TurnsP. C-StretchQ. ScorpionR. C- JumpS. Toe TouchT. Extensions U. Heal stretch frontV. Heal stretch tiltW. Stag jumpX. Fire BirdY. CalypsoZ. Barrel Turn from ChainesAA. Front leapBB. RussianCC. 6 o’clockDD. Tilt rollEE. Donkey Kicks/Flip overFF. SnailsGG. Split rollHH. Back rollII. SplitsJJ. Baby freeze/extendedKK. Walk oversLL. Chin and chest stands

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MM. ArielsNN. Kip upOO. Hand stand flip

After auditions, you will be practicing these techniques throughout the year. It is your responsibility to continue building these techniques not only in practices, but outside practices as well. The coaching/assistant staff will help you to the best of their abilities, but getting these perfected will take time, patience, and hard work. Please make sure you stretch properly before working on these techniques. Wear adequate dance attire and shoes while working on techniques. It is your responsibility to execute these techniques as the Director teaches you. Failure to pay attention and learn properly will result in you executing the moves incorrectly and possibly injuring yourself. You will be shown how to do each one correctly, please stick to how they are taught. When we learn new techniques please add them to the list.

Muscle Building and Health

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A. In order for most of the techniques to be built up to the level required at Competition, you will need to keep your body in a healthy/toned state.

B. You can be a size 4 and not be as healthy or toned as a size 8.C. Your size does not play a role into how well you will dance, it is how much

muscle tone you build and how healthy you are on the inside.D. Eating right during your competition dance career is extremely important. This

does not mean you cannot enjoy sugar, it does however mean that being smart about what you put into your dancing machine impacts how you will dance.

E. Eating small meals/snacks throughout the day will help boost your metabolism, increase energy, and help you get to where you need to be physically, inside and out.

F. Dancers who eat little or too much sugar will not have adequate energy for practices and performances.

G. Drinking water throughout the day not only helps keep you hydrated and healthy, it also helps your skin look better and helps with hunger.

H. Sometimes when you crave sugar or feel overly hunger; your body actually just needs water.

I. Please always bring a healthy snack and your water bottle to practices and performances.

J. Adequate sleep is also a necessity while on the Elite Comp. Team. Sleeping at least 7 hours the night before an event, performance, practice, or competition is required.

K. Working your muscles outside of dance will help increase tone and strength. Please continue working throughout the season on muscle toning.

a. Examples…i. Using soup cans as weights is an easy, cheap way to build arm

muscle.ii. Releve moves during commercials.iii. Walking on your toes throughout the house.iv. Doing Pilates (they have them on Netflix, this will increase muscle

tone and flexibility).v. Leg lifts with weights.

L. Doing cardio is a great way to build endurance and will help you maintain energy throughout your practices and performances. Please work on cardio throughout the season.

a. Examples…i. Zumbaii. Running iii. Walkingiv. Sportsv. Riding bikesvi. Swimmingvii. Kinect sports/exercise games

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M. Eating disorders and diet pills are not only extremely bad for your health, but also not allowed while on E.C.D. or the Elite Competition Team. If you are suspected of an eating disorder or pill taking, you will be given a warning to discontinue use and/or stop the eating disorder before it is out of your hands.

N. If you have an eating disorder and want help to stop, you can come and talk with Mrs. Grover who has experience in handling situations like this as well as personal experience. You will have to sit down with your parents and the Director and figure out a help plan so you can continue on the team.

O. The UDA does not permit the use of performance enhancers or diet pills. They have been known to subject dancers at competitions to drug tests, therefore it is the responsibility of the Director or owner of a company/team to make sure his/her dancers are clean.

P. All of you are beautiful young adults. Please take ownership of your bodies and treat them with respect and dignity. Following the above, you will not only feel better, you will start to see positive results in how you see yourself and how you dance.

Q. If you have any concerns or questions you are more than welcome to talk with the Director. She is more than happy to help.

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Fundraisers

A. During the dance season you will be participating in Elite Competition Team fundraisers.

B. We will have…a. Chore weekendsb. Car washesc. Garage Salesd. Princess Tea Parties e. Halloween Masqueradef. Moments to Rememberg. Junior Winter Masqueradeh. These are just ones planned, we may have more.

C. 15% is taken from the overall total before being split that goes toward program costs and then possible scholarship funds.

D. After the percentage is taken the remaining amount is split between those who worked the fundraiser and recorded in the excel document to keep track of funds.

E. Some fundraisers will be geared toward certain teams only, but all dancers are required to attend and help as they are still teammates.

F. All dancers are responsible for raising funds for their dance items, travel expenses, and competition costs.

G. If you do not raise the total amount needed by the cutoff dates, you must pay out of pocket the remaining sum.

H. The Director will try to help the team raise as much money as possible, but understand that is not a guarantee all money needed will be raised.

I. If you raise any sum of money and then are either removed from the team or quit, the money you raised or donated will be split up between the remaining Elite Competition Team dancers.

J. Some fundraisers will be designated to purchasing team items such as poms, props, and E.C.D. expenses.

K. NO refunds will be given, no exceptions.L. Parents must help out at Fundraisers. Mrs. Grover puts in many hours outside of

practices sewing costumes, putting together decorations, plans for fundraisers, packets, and so on. If parents fail to offer or help with fundraisers and events the program will not have them and parents will need to pay full amounts for uniform and competition costs as well as a possible monthly program fee.

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Competition 2013-2014

Competition for Season 4 2015-2016 will start in September 2015 and end in late May 2016. We will be competing at a minimum of two competitions one in the state and one out of state competition.

A. In state competition we will be staying 2 nights at a hotel. The out of state trip we will be staying for 2 nights and 7 nights.

B. Hotels will vary but we will try to stay at hotels that offer free breakfast to lower food costs or a condo.

C. Starting this year we will not be having Parent Chaperones on our Las Vegas trips/competition, but will possibly have them for the shorter trips to Coeur d’Alene.

D. Out of state competitions will need certain travel documentation especially if planning on traveling by plane.

E. Mini Competition Team dancers must have parents chaperone them at all times. Hotel accommodations, food, and travel expenses are the responsibility of the parent/s. We will all try to stay in the same hotel or in the same area, but cannot promise this will happen.

F. Parents that are not chaperoning are allowed to accompany the team, but must stay in different rooms, ride in different cars, and understand that the team is there together and the Director is in charge of the team and dancers. If you become a problem or start to interfere in a negative way, you will be asked to leave. Your behavior does not impact your child’s spot on the team, but does impact them emotionally as well as the team and the Director. This is not a family trip, it is a Dance Team trip and Competition and must be treated as such.

G. Any dancer or parent that does not comply with the rules laid out by Mrs. Grover, causes Mrs. Grover or other members/parents hardship, causes drama on the trip, or acts in any way that Mrs. Grover feels had a negative impact on the trip, the team, or the rules, will possibly not be invited back to a competition or the competition team the next year.

H. Dancers that are under the age of 18 are the responsibility of Mrs. Grover. If you are wanting other family members to be able to give them rides during or after a competition you must give written or verbal consent prior to Mrs. Grover releasing your minor.

I. Mrs. Grover and chaperones will be responsible for all dancers traveling.J. Mrs. Grover will have a trusted friend, past chaperone, nursing student, and past

college dance teammate as a chaperone or another highly trusted chaperone traveling with the team.

K. Mrs. Grover is first aid/c.p.r. certified. Her chaperones should try to do the same.L. Parents must sign all of the travel forms necessary for the trips. M. All medications must have prescription bottle with THEIR name on it

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N. The UDA/NDA has checked ages of dancers and require both I.D. and B.C. to validate age. Please make sure you have copies just in case. We have yet to be check, but better to be safe than sorry or unprepared.

O. Other paper work may be needed for minors in order to travel out of state, especially if parents are divorced/separated.

P. Extra spending money will be the responsibility of the dancer and parent. Please keep in mind that we will be stopping for snacks, beverages, etc... and at competition they do have memorabilia for sale.

Q. A min $25 monthly payment is recommended, but not required. You are more than welcome to make higher payments monthly or whenever possible. The remaining amount toward competition that isn’t raised or paid monthly will be separated into three payments to cover total competition costs. Many girls who have done this or who had family sponsor a monthly amount paid little to no costs for one or more competitions.

R. If you are late on a payment, a late fee will be automatically added. If you are more than 3-5 days late the Director will decide whether to remove you from the competition or continue adding late fees until you have paid.

S. If you fail to pay for the remaining total toward competition team your child may be replaced or removed from that competition

T. Once payment is made for competition expenses there will be NO refunds, no exceptions.

U. If any emergency occurs that hinders you from traveling to competition, we will try to get as much money refunded as possible, but understand that it is not guaranteed.

V. If you are unable to raise money in time for a payment due date, you can try to work out a payment plan with the Director. If a payment plan is not an option and the Director is unable to help, you will need to find a way to cover the costs or forfeit competition.

W. Dancers will be responsible for their money they raise themselves (chore weekend, babysitting etc...). Please encourage dancer to keep money safe and not spend it.

X. If we have paid upfront for you in previous situations and payments have not been received or payments have been overly late, we will not pay upfront in the future. If we continue to have payment issues with you or your dancer competition fees may be required to be made in full before they can continue to be considered a part of the traveling or competing group at a certain competition.

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Competition Schedule and DetailsWe will be doing two out of state competitions and then one in state competition.

Competition 1:KAR Coeur d’Alene

February 26-28th 2016$45 per dancer per group routine$110 per solo$135 per duet/trioWe will be taking a whole group, two Senior Routines, a Mini Routine, and then if there are dancers who are to do solos,duets, or trios they will be asked or need to come speak with Mrs.Grover.

Competition 2:In10sity Seattle

May 6-8th 2016$40 per routine per dancer$110 per Duet/Trio$100 per soloWe will be doing the same layout routine wise as KAR

Competition 3:

Starbound Las VegasMay 25th-31st$35 per dancer per routine$90 per solo$52.50 per dancer for duets$35 per dancer for trios

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Expenses and Due DatesPractice Attire: Must have to wear 1 month after auditions

Uniforms:

Seniors - $50 uniform fee* must be paid within one month of joining the team$36 pom poms* must be paid within one month of joining the teamDance paws

Juniors - $40 uniform fee* must be paid within one month of joining the team$36 pom poms* must be paid within one month of joining the teamDance paws

Minis - $50* must be paid within one month of joining the teamDance PawsTan Jazz Shoes

UW Spirit Day - Seniors Only$45 due November 17th

The due dates for competition will also be updated and this page will be replaced with the updated page.

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Contract/Packet Signature SheetDancer

I, ______________________________, a dancer on the E.C.D. Elite Competition Team, have read the E.C.D. Elite Competition Team Contract/Packet 2015-2016 in its entirety and understand its contents. I agree to adhere to all of the stated in the contract/packet and agree to commit to the success of myself as a dancer as well as the success of my team and program. I understand and except all the terms and conditions for practices, events, performances, and competitions, and all guidelines and rules stated in each page.

Dancer Signature________________________________ Date_________________

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Contract/Packet Signature SheetParent

I, ______________________________, the parent of ___________________________have read the above E.C.D. Elite Competition Team Contract/Packet in its entirety and understand its contents. I understand the responsibility my child is undertaking by becoming an E.C.D. Elite Competition Team member. I agree to fully support my child and will encourage them to fulfill their commitment. I also understand that by signing this contract I am bound to not use my child’s participation in this program as a form of punishment as I realize that it also punishes their team and the entire E.C.D. Program. Furthermore, I understand that being an E.C.D. Elite Competition Team member is a commitment on the part of the parent as well. I realize that when representing E.C.D. I must always conduct myself with class and responsibility. I understand that any athlete or parent that does not abide by the rules and regulations mentioned in this contract/packet, or that is consistently negative, or acts in a manner that jeopardizes the name and reputation of E.C.D., will be subject to removal from the program and charged a $30 fee. In addition, I agree to give E.C.D. full permission to seek medical attention and/or take any actions deemed necessary including but not limited to drug testing to ensure the safety and wellbeing of my child and those around them. I accept and comply with the fact that Samantha Grover will be randomly requesting that we submit our minor to a drug test at our provider's office and understand that it is my responsibility to take action towards this in a timely fashion. I hereby release the E.C.D. program, including its Director, Samantha Grover, assistants, staff, coaches, and employees from any liability to the above named participant, or any person claiming through him/her, arising from injury to the person or property of the above-named participant. This release includes any claims of negligence, and is intended to be as broad as permissible under Washington State Law. In the event of any activities that are locally or nationally televised, I give the E.C.D. program the right and permission to film, photograph, or videotape my son/daughter for any reproductions associated or in any way connected with said televised events, in particular, for use in any promotional purpose.I, the undersigned Parent/Guardian do hereby give consent for my son/daughter to participate in the training and activities provided by E.C.D. I am fully aware of the nature of the activities involved and the possibility of injuries and/or death which may arise from such activities. In case of illness, injury and/or death that may arise directly or indirectly as a result of participation and/or travel to or from the activity, training, or competitions (i.e. clinic/camp/out of town activities or events), I do hereby grant my permission to the E.C.D. program to seek immediate treatment for my child should he/she be injured and do not hold Samantha Grover, or staff responsible. I, the undersigned Parent/Guardian understand that this contract is for a whole season. I understands I am responsible for any monies not covered by fundraising, and understand that a fee of $30 will be charged to me if I fail to follow my contract set by Ellensburg Community Dance and Samantha Grover.Parent Signature_______________________________Date_______________________