Suddenly, everyone wanted to dance.

Harvard's team and club membership increased along with many others in the country. The combined effect of the swing boom and subsequent Latin craze caused the popularity of dancing with a partner to skyrocket. It not only became clear that Harvard would be competitive for years to come, but that there would continue to be a high level of competition. Prior to the sudden jolt in popularity, other schools had seen their dance programs shrink over the previous five years.

Presently, the circuit is alive and well.

"We compete against a lot of local schools," Card says. "Yale, MIT, Northeastern--at every one of them, the room is packed and the atmosphere is very intense."

The team recently wrapped up its season at home by hosting the Harvard Invitational, one of two major competitions that take place at Harvard each year. The team also hosts a Beginner's Comp in the fall, in which many of the novices make their competitive debuts.

One interesting aspect of the team is its official status, or lack thereof, in the Harvard community. It cannot be a varsity sport since the NCAA does not recognize the event, but unlike the Crimson Dance Team, it is not a recognized club sport, either.

In addition to its 41 varsity sports, Harvard offers funding, guidance, and the ability to officially use the Harvard name to 33 club activities. The list includes the dance team, juggling, cheerleading, tai-chi and figure skating.