Welcome to Enjoy Ballroom and Latin - Cheese Town Trophy 2026
An event with international allure
Organized on the grounds of an internationally renowned football club, this tournament offers a professional stage that attracts dancers from the Netherlands and abroad. The venue is fully equipped for large international events and offers everything a dancer or team could wish for. An internationally recognized jury will judge the performances with expertise and an eye for detail. Dancers will perform on one of two fully equipped dance floors: one for competition and one for dancing, both of equal quality. Participants from several countries are expected to compete, making this event a true meeting place for international dance enthusiasts.
Optimal atmosphere in a unique location Exclusive location
The Kees Kist Lounge in the AZ Stadium, the stage for this special event, will be transformed into a true temple of dance. In a stylish setting, dancers and spectators alike will be immersed in an atmosphere of class and sophistication. The Cheese Town Trophy 2026 is more than a competition; it is a celebration of the art of dance. In addition to the impressive competition floor, the event will also feature a special warm-up dance floor where dancers can prepare and experience the magic of dance up close.
An unforgettable experience for everyone
Come and shine on the dance floor or enjoy the elegance and energy of Ballroom and Latin as a spectator. Top international dancers bring their passion to life on two professional dance floors, supported by an expert panel of judges and an atmosphere that feels like a championship. Everything has been designed with the audience in mind: excellent sight lines from every seat, a choice of comfortable seating classes and access to catering facilities. VIP guests will be pampered with exclusive service, snacks and drinks in a stylish setting. This day is more than a competition - it is an unforgettable experience for dance lovers and performers alike.
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The competition team
Gerard Kluver
Dance is in my blood. My mother founded our dance school over 65 years ago. I grew up among dancing couples and took over the school 25 years ago. As a former top-level dancer in both amateur and professional categories, I hold full FDO certification and am qualified to train dance instructors. In my classes, I focus especially on footwork, technique, and dancing as a true unit. For me, dance is precision and joy — a language you speak together.
Karin Karamat Ali
A passionate dance professional with years of experience in the Latin and Salsa world. As a certified coach and FDO instructor, she shares her knowledge and expertise with the next generation of dancers. In addition, she serves on the board of the Dutch Association of Dance Teachers (NBD) and is an international judge with the World Dance Council (WDC). Her commitment to quality and development in dance has made her a respected figure both nationally and internationally.
Sylvia van Geldre
Dance has been in my heart since I was fourteen. As a dancer, I competed at a high level for many years — both in the amateur and professional circuits — and reached the finals in both Ballroom and Latin. At the age of 24, I obtained my FDO diploma and began teaching. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of training and coaching countless dance couples. As a judge, I pay close attention to musicality, expression, technique, and perhaps most importantly: dancing together as one. To me, dance is not just movement — it’s a story you tell together.
Jeroen Haak
Jeroen Haak competed for many years at a high level in Latin and Ballroom within the top amateur class of the NDO and NADB, before moving to the professional division in 2005. As a professional, he reached numerous finals, including a 2nd place at the Grand Prix of the X-mas Challenge Trophy in 2006 and 25th place at the Dutch Open Professional World Series Ballroom Championship in 2007. He also holds an international judging license for both WDC Professionals and WDC AL Amateurs.
Hans van der Hoef
My journey began at the renowned dance schools of Marcel and Ratna de Rijk, where I grew from manager to owner of several studios. With great joy, I’ve taught thousands of people their very first dance steps. Thanks to Marcel’s passion for dance competitions, I also had the opportunity to become a presenter at many events. From the Dutch Open in Slagharen and Assen to the Open World Championships in Paris, Dublin, and even South Africa — I brought my full energy to every stage. Nationally, I was also involved with the competition organizations S.O.N.D. and D.M.N. With all this experience, I’m incredibly excited about the upcoming dance competitions in the Netherlands. Hopefully, in 2026, we’ll create a celebration in Alkmaar that puts both the dancers and the city in the spotlight. I can’t wait to see you there!
