David Vasquez

David Vasquez is a native of Delavan Wisconsin. He graduated from Delavan-Darien High School in 1976 and later attended college in Eau Claire Wisconsin. He has also completed a Masters degree in Human Resource Management.

David Vasquez has had a successful career in the United States Navy spanning 20 years, culminating in his retirement as Chief Petty Officer. He currently works as a Program Manager for a Global Navy shore activity in San Diego.

Q: David, How long have you been dancing?

David: I danced competitively in the midwest during the disco years. I was hired by an independent dance studio in Eau Claire Wisconsin where I was trained in American Style Ballroom dance, both Smooth and Rhythm.

Q: What is your favorite dance and why?

David: Although I really enjoy both American and International ballroom dances, my favorite dance these days is Salsa. It is a very challenging commitment to learn more technique and continually improve with a great deal of practice. I also love to dance International Standard Waltz, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz and Quickstep. They are all very challenging and exhilarating to perform.

Q: What attracted you to dancing?

David: This was something I found I did naturally. I learned I had dance ability in childhood and enjoyed dancing into adulthood.

Q: What has been the high point of your dancing career?

David: Finding my current dance partner, Ingrid Valdna. We have such a positive energy together and I feel like the luckiest guy in the world to be able to dance, train, and teach with her as my partner.

Q: What are your favorite activities outside of dancing?

David: I enjoy attending local theatre regularly. I also like to take scenic rides on my Harley on the weekends. I have a beautiful Old English Sheepdog named Willy who demands a lot of my attention. He is a wonderful companion.

Get Started NOW! Let David & Ingrid be your guides in introducing you to your first of many entertaining dance lessons. "Attending your first dance lesson can be an intimidating experience - but I want you to know that you will be surrounded by others just like you, at a skill level where everyone can feel comfortable."

Q: What was your most embarrassing dancing moment?

David: My first dance competition was performing a tango routine and the judges were the reigning National Latin Dance Champions at the time. I started and immediately forgot my whole routine. I just went blank. It was a horrible experience but taught me a valuable lesson in the importance of practice and preparation for a performance.

Q: In what ways has your life been remarkable?

David: I feel very privileged to have touched so many dance students in a positive way. I hope my purpose of sharing the joy of dance is a big part of how I will be remembered.

Q: What are the three most important lessons you've learned in your life?

David: Be yourself, confident in your own abilities. Work hard and always have integrity. Finally, have humility and a proper perspective on things spiritual.

Q: What have you done that no one would guess you'd done, to look at you?

David: I used to be a disco king known as Disco Dave in the late 70's.