“I spent the first 17 years of my life enjoying an island living in La Réunion, one of the four French overseas territories. Born and raised in Indian Ocean – within a culture that celebrates nature, diversity, hybridity, sharing, cooperation and simplicity – I have been swaying to traditional rhythms of Séga, Maloya and Zouk ever since early childhood. Music and Dance have always been key pillars of my heritage and identity.” – Emeline Rochefeuille

“Jihlava, a small city in the middle of Czech Republic where I come from. If you are into history, kings or mining – I would recommend you to visit. People there enjoy their stability and habits, occasional musical festivals and sports. I’ve been raised to run long distance, to endure any uphill and to never get lost in a forest. Orienteering, among other sports, was my full-time hobby for 8 years until the summer of 2009 – that’s when Jakub met dancing.” – Jakub Jakoubek

Jakub & Emeline have been traveling the world together since 2016, flying from country to country to share their passion for dancing. After 6 consecutive years being part of the top 10 finalists at the US Open Swing Dance Championships, they just placed 1st in the Classic Division in November 2024.

J’Ems unique dance style is influenced by urban dances, contemporary, modern, zouk, and contact improvisation.

Learn more about Jakub & Emeline here.

Dawn Blorstad

Chief Judge

Maryland, USA

Alexis Garrish

Chief Judge

Maryland, USA

Jakub Jakoubek

Judge

Jihlava, Czech Republic

Emeline Rochefeuille

Judge

La Réunion, France

Greg Rollinscott

Judge

Maryland, USA

Lemery Rollinscott

Judge

Maryland, USA

Erica Smith

Judge

Maryland, USA

Alyssa Lundgren

Judge

Virginia, USA

Steve Wilder

Judge

Virginia, USA

Lara Deni

Judge

Virginia, USA

Rachel Phelps

Judge

California, USA

Kevin Fitzhugh

Judge

Maryland, USA

Ken Roesel

Judge

Maryland, USA

Lisa Schaupp

Judge

Maryland, USA

Adela Su-Karoliussen

Judge

Virginia, USA

Abi Schneider

Judge

Alabama, USA

Dave Moldover – Executive Director
Kay Newhouse – Co-Director
Casey Moldover –Graphic Design
Amy Daniecki – Customer Care & Scoring
Tania Zatz-Gilman – Customer Care
Kendra Zara – Competitor Coordinator
Olivia Reiser – Competitor Coordinator