Question 1

What is a Jack & Jill competition?

Accepted Answer

Jack & Jill (JnJ) is a partner dance format where leads and follows are randomly paired before each heat — you dance with someone you've never rehearsed with. It tests connection, musicality, and improvisation. Competitors register as a Lead or Follow and are grouped by skill division.

Question 2

What are the divisions?

Accepted Answer

SIBF runs three divisions: Novice (0–1 year of experience or first competition), Intermediate (1–3 years), and Open (unrestricted — any level welcome). Self-assessment is on the honour system; the MC may recommend moving up if you consistently place in the top 3.

Question 3

How does the preliminary round work?

Accepted Answer

In the preliminary round, each judge watches every couple and votes: Callback (yes), Alternate (maybe), or Out (no). A quota is set in advance (e.g. top 8 leads + 8 follows proceed). Judges' votes are tallied and the top N by callback count advance. If there's a tie at the cutoff, Alternate votes break it. If still tied, a Draw decides.

Question 4

What is the Skating System (RPSS)?

Accepted Answer

The Skating System (RPSS — Relative Placement Scoring System) is used in the final round. Each judge ranks every couple from 1 to N. A couple places 1st if a majority of judges ranked them 1st. If two couples tie, Rule 11 head-to-head comparison is applied — the same tiebreak method used at NDCA and World Salsa Summit events. In the results table, each count cell is colour-coded: red = majority reached (enough judges have ranked this couple within that position), pink = close call (one vote short of majority), purple = some support (ranked by some judges but not near majority).

Question 5

How do judges submit scores?

Accepted Answer

Judges receive a shared link before the round starts. They open it on their phone, select their name from the panel list, enter a 4-digit PIN, and vote directly. There's no app to install. The PIN prevents others from submitting votes under a judge's name.

Question 6

When are results published?

Accepted Answer

Live results display on-screen within 2 seconds of the final score coming in — judges and competitors can see placements in the room. The full results are then archived to this site under Past Results, typically within a few days of the event.

Question 7

I registered but my bib number wasn't on the list — what do I do?

Accepted Answer

Find the registration desk or any volunteer with a tablet. Walk-in entries can be added on the day. If you booked via TryBooking and your name is missing, show the volunteer your booking confirmation — they can add you manually.

Question 8

Can I compete in more than one division?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no — you compete in the division that matches your level. If you want to "up-division" (enter a higher division voluntarily), speak to the organiser before registration closes.

Question 9

How is this system different from paper scoring?

Accepted Answer

Paper-based systems require manual counting and are prone to error. This system captures votes digitally, applies the Skating System automatically, and produces a verifiable result in seconds. Judges see results as soon as the round is tallied.

Question 10

I'm an event organiser — can I use this for my competition?

Accepted Answer

Yes. JnJ Scoring is being developed as a reusable platform for Bachata, Salsa, and WCS Jack & Jill events. Contact us via the organiser link in the footer.

Frequently Asked Questions