A 6-count pattern where the follower passes the leader on the leader's left side. Along with the sugar push and right side pass, it forms the core triangle of beginner WCS.
The shape
- 1–2: leader steps back and slightly off-slot, opening a lane on their left; follower walks forward
- 3&4: follower passes the leader and turns to face back down the slot
- 5&6: anchor
The leader redirects the follower's momentum down the slot rather than pulling — a common teaching image is "opening a door" and letting the follower walk through.
Common notes
- Followers generally keep their travel on the slot; a drifting left side pass is one of the most common beginner habits.
- The leader's hand stays low and relaxed ("in the toolbox") — high hands early in this pattern usually mean an accidental inside roll is coming.
Video examples (3)
Beginner tutorial on the first four patterns — this move among them.
The First 4 Basics of WCS - Start Here!
Covers the starter step and left side pass together.
West Coast Swing Basic Steps (Starter Step & Left Side Pass)
Improvised pro Jack & Jill — watch how much mileage they get from simple passes.
Jordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollmann "Gravity" - Pro Jack & Jill - Budafest 2018
Log in to add a video example.
Discussion
Debate naming, technique, and history here — keep the page itself descriptive.
No comments yet.
Log in to join the discussion.