The PDF was first established in 1980 by Brian McDonald when he lived in Oklahoma. He traveled to California at that time and met with some Professionals there who then became the first Officials of the PDF. They were Brian McDonald as President, Stephen Cullip, Jeanette Ball. Edward Ball & Bill Graveson. Mr. McDonald & Bill Mr.Graveson were the delegates who attended the NCDTO, (now known as the NDCA), meetings to try and obtain membership for the PDF.

In the early eighties the PDF received an offer from Sonny Binick and Bob Burgess of the BDF in England to affiliate the PDF to their body the PDF, it was turned down as the wanted to keep completely free of any International body.

In 1982-83 at the California Star Ball Ronald Montez was elected the new President.

Mr McDonald then continued working at NDCA for the PDF and after three years he managed to get the PDF incorporated and become a member of the NDCA. Prior to this we were at NDCA as observers only.

The PDF articles of Incorporation were filed on May 21, 1984 in California by it's then current president, Ron Montez. The specific purpose of the corporation was to; (a) foster the spirit of good fellowship and sportsmanship, and to protect the interests of professionals, such as competitors, adjudicators, scrutineers, organizers and promoters involved in competitive dancing; and (b) to further the goodwill and cooperation between the members of the Professional Dancers Federation and the National Council of Dance Teachers Organization (now known as NDCA) and all who utilize the professional services of the Professional Dancers Federation members.

Under the direction of Ron Montez on Aug.8, 1984 the PDF was admitted to the NDCA with Class A affiliate membership.

The history of the PDF is a work in progress. If you have anything to contribute please drop us an email – history@pdfusa.org