About Maria Ford

The longish story:

After dancing competitively throughout my childhood and youth, I began dancing West Coast Swing in 2004, began competing in 2006, and began teaching in 2007. I won (and often did not win) in top divisions of WCS (All-Star) and Hustle (Professional/Open); I co-choreographed and performed winning West Coast Swing routines, including team and Rising Star divisions. In 2019, I retired from competition and from judging in 2023.

Teaching and community development have always been a focus of my dance-life, including developing students and teachers. This continues today through active social dancing and teaching private lessons, specialty group workshops, and providing teacher training.

Skilled in both roles, I give equal attention and support to leads and follows. I am known for building strong technical foundations, quality of movement, troubleshooting, and excellence in teaching. I most value the opportunity to be a mentor, coach, and be a friend in dance.

I received Master-level WCS instructor certification and WCS judge certification from the Global Professional Dance Instructors Association (GPDIA). I am grateful to have been trained and coached by some of the best Champions, teachers, and innovators in my chosen dance styles. These have shaped me the most: Angel Figueroa, Arjay Centeno, Robert Royston, Brandi Guild, Jordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollman, Kyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake, Jennifer Deluca, Mario Robau Jr., Fred Price, Tina Price, and Stephanie Risser.

Other influences include:

• My work as a strategic communications professional
• Certification and experience in change management
• Long-time experience teaching adults, including as a college professor, presentation coach, dance instructor, and teacher-trainer

Short bio:

Maria Ford is an Ottawa-based All-Star West Coast Swing dancer who also competes in Professional/Open Hustle. She has co-choreographed and performed winning West Coast Swing routines, including team and Rising Star divisions. Today, she focuses on providing high-quality instruction and innovative teacher training. She is skilled in and gives equal support to both Lead and Follow roles. She is known for building strong technical foundations, quality of movement, troubleshooting, and excellence in teaching. Learn more at www.smoothstyle.ca