Abuse and cheating in the world of Irish dance

[cbabe]

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/oct/06/irish-dancing-world-cheating-allegations-clrg

‘It’s like The Godfather’: Irish dancing world hit by cheating allegations

…

t is alleged that at least 12 teachers in Ireland and other countries conspired to ensure certain dancers scored highly in international tournaments, known as feiseanna. Dance teachers adjudicate dance competitions, from small, local affairs to international events.

The Irish Independent, which broke the story, said in one case a teacher and a competition judge appeared to be exchanging sexual favours for higher scores. It quoted insiders who spoke of unusual scoring patterns at competitions and cosy relationships between teachers and judges.

Several parents and teachers, speaking anonymously, told the paper the tight-knit industry was like the mafia, with one former Riverdance star citing the HBO show The Sopranos. A US-based teacher said she was afraid to ask one of the allegedly crooked judges for a favour. “Because once you do, you’re indebted to them for life. It’s like The Godfather.”

…more…

(One good thing: rampant cheating and abuse in chess, Canada hockey et all coming to light.)

[MagickMuffin]

1. No longer the days of may the best team win

It’s who can win by cheating!


Low air footballs, stuffing weights in fishes, chess, dancing, cheerleading, etc etc


Is there any sporting events where cheaters can’t cheat?

[Mysterian]

2. Dance for fun, not for competition

Then everyone is a winner.

[BlueCheeseAgain]

3. After those people were caught cheating in a fishing competition...

I suppose anything is possible.

[Caliman73]

4. Whenever there is money to be made, there will be cheating.

That is the unfortunate incentive in profit as motive. Every sport and competition from Dance, to Bodybuilding, to Basketball, Football, Boxing, etc... has had its own scandal, and you can usually trace it back to who is getting paid.

Because Irish Dance is such a niche thing, most of us have not heard of anything like that, but it is sadly, not shocking that something shady would be going on in competitions, especially where money directly through prizes, or through growing reputation is an element of the activity.

[Raine]

5. Seems there isn't anything anymore that hasn't been corrupted. ☹️nt

[ultralite001]

6. What about the children???

Innocence lost...

Again...



That is all...

[Samrob]

7. DAMN IT!! There goes the last venue that brought me thoughts of good, honest, clean,

non-violent entertainment. We can no longer enjoy nice things. Sigh....