What drew you to square dancing? For many of us, it was a set of traditions that made us feel connected to a community. Once we became part of the square dance activity, we also found ourselves developing and sharing a set of values such as teamwork, perseverance, pride, confidence, listening, respect, and more. These values may be first learned within our family but are extended within our square dance community. Maybe it is these values that we should focus on when recruiting future dancers. Strong family values helped shape the Brendzy family’s success over the years.

More about RAY BRENDZY

Ray Brendzy began square dancing at the early age of seven, when he was dragged to his first class by his parents. After his first year of dancing, Ray developed an interest in calling. The following year he joined a youth square dance club where he became proficient in all aspects of square dancing: calling, round dancing and square dancing. He annually participated in a local teen competition and received many awards for his abilities. He is still the only competitor to receive the senior calling championship for five consecutive years. He became club caller for the youth group at eighteen. He remained with them for twelve years and channeled his efforts into producing some of the finest youth callers and dancers in the Lower Mainland.

Ray has called for many clubs over the years. He currently has clubs in the Vancouver, BC area. He is also an avid dancer and tries to get out at least one night a week. He has recently completed a C3A teach and is doing some calling at that level as well. Ray enjoys traveling with his calling and is often out of town.

Ray and his wife Christine were born and raised in the Vancouver area, have two children, and currently reside in Burnaby. When the couple’s two children were old enough to dance, they attended the youth club and Ray and Christine soon became involved with teen dancing again. Nicholas and Caitlyn enjoyed square dancing and were soon actively involved in the movement. Ray enjoys sharing the stage with his children. Together they produce some great harmony. Family is very important to Ray and Christine and this is very apparent when you are around them. Square dancing has become a family tradition, and their love for the activity keeps them together and attracts others who share the enjoyment of square dancing.

One Happy Family Calling Together!

Ray Brendzy and his two children, Nicholas and Caitlyn, called a tip together at the 74th Fiesta de la Cuadrilla in San Diego, CA in March, 2024.

Ray Brendzy of Burnaby, British Columbia Calling, “I Go Down to the Honkey Tonk”