About Us
Celebrating 25 years of dance!
At Diamond Dancesport, we believe dance is more than just movement—it’s a celebration of life, connection, and confidence. Located in Chicago’s Southside, our studio welcomes dancers of all ages and skill levels to experience the joy and excitement of dance in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.
We specialize in Ballroom, Latin, Swing, Country, and Line Dancing—offering both group classes and private lessons. Whether you’re stepping onto the floor for the first time or polishing your performance for an event or competition, we can help you meet your dance goals.
What we Offer
- Private lessons
- Group classes
- World class coaching from visiting instructors
- Practice space for non-studio students
- Teaching space for independent instructors
- Monthly Parties
Rates also available for:
- Dance exhibitions or lessons for your event or party
- Gift certificates
- Groups
- Studio Rental
How to Get Started
Getting started is easy! Simply:
- Contact us via email info@diamonddancesport.com or call us at 708-237-9464
- Choose a class that fits your schedule and interests—group or private.
- Show up and dance! No partner or prior experience is needed.
Our friendly instructors will guide you every step of the way and ensure you feel comfortable and confident on the dance floor.
Our Mission
Our mission is to inspire confidence, connection, and joy through dance. We strive to create a warm, inclusive environment where everyone—regardless of age or experience—can discover the transformative power of movement, music, and self-expression.
Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, looking for a new hobby, or simply want to try something fun and healthy, Diamond Dancesport is here to help you dance your way to a better you.
Group Classes & Private Lessons
At Diamond Dancesport, we offer both group classes and private lessons to fit every dancer’s learning style, schedule, and goals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your technique, our flexible programs give you the freedom to choose how you want to learn.
Group Classes
Social, Fun, and Supportive
Group classes are a great way to build confidence, learn new patterns, and meet fellow dancers in a relaxed, social setting. Classes focus on lead-and-follow skills, rhythm, timing, and technique—all while rotating partners to help you become a well-rounded social dancer. No partner is needed to take any of our group classes.
Benefits of group classes:
- Learn in a fun, energetic environment
- Meet new people and make friends
- Practice with multiple partners
- Affordable and flexible scheduling
- Great complement to private lessons
Private Lessons
Personalized, Focused, and Fast-Tracking Your Progress
Private lessons offer one-on-one instruction tailored specifically to your goals, pace, and preferred dance styles. Whether you’re preparing for an event, working on technique, or want individual attention, private lessons provide the fastest path to becoming a confident dancer.
Benefits of private lessons:
- Customized instruction just for you (or you and a partner)
- Flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle
- Rapid improvement with focused feedback
- Ideal for beginners, wedding couples, or competitive dancers
Instructors
Becky Simon (owner) : With over 50 years of teaching experience, Becky brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to every class she leads. Trained in the Fred Astaire system, she began her career as a competitive dancer, earning recognition as a Chicago Area Fred Astaire Rising Star and Open Rhythm and Smooth Champion.
Becky has shared her expertise at renowned studios such as Let’s Dance and Cheek to Cheek before becoming an independent instructor. Today, she is the proud owner of Diamond Dancesport, where she teaches both private and group classes.
Becky works with competition students in American and International styles, while also offering instruction in social dancing and special event preparation, including wedding dances. Her experience, warmth, and dedication have made her a trusted and inspiring figure in the dance community.
Rachel Mercedes: Rachel began her ballroom dance journey at the age of seven and has since built an accomplished career as both a performer and instructor. For the past 20 years, she has been a respected teacher at Diamond Dancesport, where she shares her passion and expertise in ballroom, country, swing, and line dancing with students of all levels.
A decorated competitor, Rachel has excelled in both ballroom and country dance arenas. Her titles include 2019 UCWDC Open Division I World Champion, 2024 & 2025 UCWDC Mixed Role Classic Masters Champion, and, with her partner Eric Nava, the prestigious 2025 UCWDC Classic Masters World Championship.
Beyond competition, Rachel is the co-director of the Chi-Town Country Crew with Kat Warner, where she mentors and motivates dancers to grow in both skill and confidence. Known for her precision, creativity, and unwavering dedication, Rachel continues to inspire dancers to reach their fullest potential—both on and off the dance floor.
Other Instructors:
Eric Nava
Kat Warner: Kat began line dancing at just seven years old, following in the footsteps of her mother, the renowned Dance With Janet. Growing up surrounded by rhythm and movement, Kat developed a deep passion for dance that expanded beyond country line dancing to include all of the country dances, Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, Standard, and Social Ballroom.
From 2016 to 2022, Kat was an instructor at Heart & Sole Dance, where she inspired countless students before the studio closed its doors. It was there she met Elijah Wilson—her partner both in dance and in life.
Today, Kat continues to share her love of dance at her new home studio, Diamond Dancesport, where she teaches a variety of social and competitive dance styles. She also leads the Chi-Town Country Crew and co-hosts the YouTube channel Diamond Line Dance alongside Rachel Mercedes, bringing her vibrant energy and expertise to dancers around the world.
Eli Wilson