Competitor Rules and Expectations

Competitors do not need a full weekend pass to participate. They only need to pay entry to the dance and the competition.
A couple consists of one lead and one follow. Leaders may be any gender. Followers may be any gender.

Competitors are only allowed to sign up for one mix and match per role.
Competitors who have never made a final in any shag competition in that role (mix and match or strictly) can compete in the Newcomer level. However, if they participated in a contest that did not include a prelims (or went straight to finals) and did not place in the contest, they may participate in the newcomer level.
Anyone who has ever made a final in the role that they are competing in MUST compete at the advanced level (unless there were no prelims for that competition. See above.)
The Shag Strictly is open to ALL LEVELS.

Competitors are expected to behave in a courteous and respectful manner at all times during the event.
All competitors should be present at the competitors meetings, or they may be scratched from the competition without refund.
Numbers should be worn on the torso and not on the leg.
Competitors should keep numbers to be worn again in finals.
Finalists will be announced and posted at Dance Center Chicago and on Facebook.

Prizes

Newcomer: First, second, and third places receive medals. First place receives pass to Great Lakes Shag Escape 2025.
Advanced: First, second, and third places receive medals. and cash prizes. (First place: $75 each, Second place: $50 each, Third place: $25 each)
Strictly: First, second, and third places receive medals. and cash prizes. (First place: $150/couple, Second place: $100 /couple, Third place: $50/couple)