Oslo, Norway – A new cross-border sporting initiative is set to unite the Nordic region through rhythm, movement and shared passion. Inspired by an idea first tabled by Dans Danmark in 2021, the Nordic DanceSport League (NDL) is officially launching as a collaborative platform designed to strengthen grassroots DanceSport across Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Iceland.

The Nordic DanceSport League represents a shared commitment from the Nordic federations to inspire dancers beyond elite international competition structures. While the region continues to produce world-class athletes at World DanceSport Federation level, this new initiative focuses on the foundation of the sport: beginners, intermediates and developing dancers from the age of 10 and upwards.

A League Built on Inclusion and Inspiration

Open to all Nordic dancers aged 10+, the Nordic DanceSport League welcomes participants at any level below international championship grade. Crucially, the League is fully inclusive – embracing both fully abled dancers and athletes from the Para-DanceSport community, reinforcing the Nordic model of equality, accessibility and sporting integrity.

The initiative is built on three core pillars:

• Inspiration – Creating positive competition environments that motivate young and developing dancers

• Development – Providing structured progression pathways across the Nordic region

• Unity – Strengthening cross-border collaboration between clubs, coaches and federations

By harmonising formats and encouraging participation across borders, the League enables dancers to compete internationally within the safety and familiarity of the Nordic framework.

Strengthening Grassroots DanceSport Across Borders

The Nordic DanceSport League is designed to complement – not replace – existing national competitions. It introduces a coordinated structure where dancers can earn recognition, gain experience and build confidence without the pressure associated with elite-level championships.

Through shared standards, aligned competition models and joint promotion, the Nordic countries are creating a sustainable platform that:

• Increases participation at lower and intermediate levels

• Encourages cross-border travel and sporting exchange

• Builds community between Nordic clubs

• Supports long-term athlete retention and development

The League represents a tangible example of Nordic cooperation in sport – a region already recognised globally for its collaborative approach to youth development and inclusive sporting culture.

Uniting the Nordic Region Through Dance

DanceSport is more than medals and rankings; it is artistry, athleticism and human connection. With the launch of the Nordic DanceSport League, the Nordic countries reaffirm their shared belief that sport should inspire from the very first step onto the dance floor.

By creating a welcoming and structured environment for dancers of all abilities and backgrounds, the Nordic DanceSport League aims to unite the region – not just competitively, but culturally and socially.

As the League prepares for its first coordinated season, one message stands clear:

Nordic DanceSport League – Uniting the Nordic Countries Through Inspiration and Dance.

Media Contact:
Karine Hauge Nilsen
Karine@danseforbundet.no
+47 413 40 906