Christopher Affonso & Holly Hatleberg

Born in Brockton, Massachusetts, Christopher grew up in the greater Boston area and was introduced to ballroom dancing at Champions Dance Sport Club in Everett, his mother’s studio. Although dance was initially something he did because his family encouraged him to, everything changed around the age of eleven, when he began to develop a genuine love for dancing and competition. By fourteen, Christopher had discovered another passion: teaching. He began assisting with classes at the studio, developing an interest in helping others learn and grow through dance. Today, Christopher primarily competes in International Ballroom and American Smooth, but his connection to Latin has remained strong. He enjoys returning to Latin fundamentals in his own training and sharing that knowledge with his students. For Christopher, dance continues to be both a creative pursuit and a way to connect with others. 

Born and raised in Chelsea, Massachusetts, just outside Boston, Holly was introduced to dance unexpectedly at the age of five. Her parents had decided to learn ballroom dancing for a yearly social event, and because Holly was too young to stay home, she accompanied them to the studio. According to family legend, she eventually told her father, “Dad, I can do this better than you!” and was signed up for lessons soon afterward. What began as a childhood adventure quickly became a lifelong passion. When COVID interrupted competitions, Holly and her family continued practicing, and the experience ultimately motivated her to pursue competition more seriously afterward. Holly has developed a particular love for technique and enjoys both studying and teaching it. While she currently competes in International Ballroom and American Smooth, she still holds a special affection for Latin. 

Christopher and Holly first met as children at their home studio, Champions Dance Sport Club, and began dancing together in 2011. From there, they continued training and competing together, building a partnership that eventually grew beyond the dance floor when they began dating in 2020. Based in Boston, they continue to train at their home studio while traveling to New York and Charlotte to work with their coaches. Today, they compete in International Ballroom and have recently begun their journey in American Smooth. What makes their partnership special is the way they bring out the best in one another both competitively and personally. Together, they are developing a dynamic style while honoring the timeless character and elegance of each dance.