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Meet Tea Sovilj-Unkovski, a passionate young handler from Serbia whose global journey and Border Collies inspire success.
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Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Due to the nature of my parents’ work, we have moved frequently over the years. Currently, we are based in Johannesburg, South Africa, but my roots are in Belgrade, Serbia, the country that I proudly represented at the World Dog Show in Helsinki in August 2025. Because of our international lifestyle, I have been homeschooled, which gave me the flexibility to pursue my passion for dog handling more deeply. I recently completed my Cambridge A Levels and am currently awaiting my results. I plan to begin university studies in 2026.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Yes! Before fully immersing myself in dog sports, I was deeply involved in ballet and karate, both of which I pursued competitively. While I haven’t held a formal job, I have had meaningful hands-on experience throughout my schooling years. I have shadowed professionals at a state veterinary hospital and a private veterinary practice, and I volunteered with Border Collie Rescue where I helped with basic care and rehabilitation. I also gained insight into a completely different world by spending time at an architectural practice, which sparked my appreciation for design and precision. This summer, I spent several weeks working at the renowned Ria Vela kennel in Spain. Oh! Besides competitions, I also do Dog Dancing, Obedience, and Trick Dog competitions with my dogs.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Yes, I have grown up in a family that has always loved and respected animals, especially dogs. While we did not start off as a “show dog family,” dogs were always an important part of our home. My parents strongly believed that growing up with animals would help my brother and me develop empathy, patience, and emotional intelligence. Our journey into the world of purebred dogs began about four years ago when we welcomed our first Border Collie, Fay, and a year later, Kai, from Venron, South Africa. That moment changed everything. Since then, I have become deeply involved in the sport and lifestyle of dog shows.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: I was first introduced to the world of breed competition through my dog’s breeders, which opened the door to the show scene. While attending those early shows, I noticed other Juniors looking so elegant and focused in the ring, confidently showing their dogs. Out of pure curiosity, I asked what it was all about and decided to give it a try. What began as a light-hearted adventure quickly turned into a true passion. I found myself spending hours training, working with different dogs, and diving into everything from Conformation Breed Standards to canine anatomy. The more I learned, the more I fell in love, and not just with my own breed but with the beauty and individuality of so many other breeds.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: I entered the ring with Fay, my first Border Collie, filled with excitement, curiosity, and a lot of nerves. I didn’t know much about anything at the time, not even the proper dress code, and I certainly didn’t yet understand the handling techniques or the specific rules and regulations that Juniors are expected to follow. Everything felt new and overwhelming but also incredibly thrilling. Despite my lack of experience, that moment sparked a true love for the sport.
In a short three years of handling, I have proudly made Fay into a South African Breed Champion, while my second dog, Kai, has achieved the titles of Grand Champion and FCI Junior Beauty Champion. I was also responsible for earning their Canine Good Citizen Gold titles. It has been a fast-paced and rewarding journey of continuous learning and growth, and it all began with that first step into the ring.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Preparation for the ring is both physical and mental for both me and my dog. Before we go in, I like to do a few familiar tricks or quick engagement games to get my dog mentally switched on and focused. At the same time, I walk the ring in my head, visualizing the patterns, transitions, and how I want us to move together. It helps me stay sharp and calm.
For some reason, the color red gives me energy and confidence. It excites me and makes me feel powerful. Over time, it has become a trademark of mine to wear red in the ring. It helps me feel bold and ready.
Right before we enter, I always give my dogs a quiet pep talk. I remind them (and myself) that we have trained hard, we are a team, and we are in it together no matter what. It is our little moment of connection before stepping into the spotlight.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: When the pressure is on, the ring can feel like its own little world, every movement is under the spotlight, and the expectations from mentors, the crowd, and myself can weigh heavily. But I have learned to channel that pressure into focus. I imagine the ring as a stage, where it is just me and my dog. I visualize our performance before it even begins—the smooth movement, the perfectly timed stack, and the way my dog’s expression will light up. I anticipate his rhythm, his energy, and I stay fully in sync with him.
One of the biggest secrets I have learned is the ability to reset—and fast! If something goes wrong or I feel a flicker of doubt, I have trained myself to shake off the negativity immediately and get right back into the winning mindset. Dwelling on mistakes has no place in the ring. I center myself, smile, breathe, and re-engage with my dog. When I’m calm and confident, he feels it, and we become a stronger team for it. At the end of the day, I remind myself that this is our moment, and we are here to enjoy every second of it.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Yes, I have been fortunate to have had several mentors who shaped my journey, but there are two who stand out as especially pivotal. My very first mentor was my Obedience trainer, Kathy Clayton. She was the one who truly taught me about the powerful, silent bond that exists between a dog and its handler. Her guidance laid the foundation for everything I have built since.
My current mentor is Mr. Antoan Hlebarov, who trains me for Junior Handling. His eye for detail is unmatched; he sees the tiniest mistakes and corrects them with care, precision, and unwavering encouragement. His support has been instrumental in helping me elevate my ring presence and refine my technique.
I also have several idols in the sport whom I look up to. Mr. Juan Miranda Saucedo for his mesmerizing and effortless handling style; there’s something magical about the connection he brings into the ring. And Ms. Ashlee Houldon, whose impeccable representation of the Border Collie breed and expertise in exhibition continues to inspire me daily.
While I have not formally assisted Professional Handlers, I have had the incredible opportunity to handle for some remarkable Owner-Breeders. Their trust and mentorship have been central to my growth and have helped me on the path to becoming one of the top Junior Handlers today.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: All the wins are memorable to me; I would not be able to single out just one. Each dog I have had the honor to show and win with is a true champion in my eyes. What stays with me the most are the beautiful dogs I have partnered with and the warm smiles from judges who appreciated the connection we presented in the ring.
Some particularly special moments include wins with Border Collie Blair, stunning Afghan Hound Blaze, Weimaraner Izzy, Siberian Husky Hudson, German Shepherd Dog Coco, Rottweiler Gilda, a striking Chinese Crested Salsa, and the ever-charming Flat-Coated Retriever Pow. Each of them brought something different to the ring and helped me grow as a handler.
As for losses, there is one that stands out in a surprisingly positive way. Just two weeks ago in Castellón, Spain, I placed third in Juniors. It may not have been a win, but it was deeply meaningful. It was my first time competing in a completely different country, under tough conditions, with all instructions in Spanish. Despite all that, I made it to the podium. That experience taught me just as much, if not more, than many of my wins.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: I focus on presenting my dog in a way that highlights his strengths and best features when I’m in the show ring. I’m not afraid to show off my dog to the judge and give them the clearest view of his structure. Border Collie’s have a well-balanced, athletic appearance with keen expression, smooth and efficient movement, and an intense, intelligent gaze that reflects its focus and work ethic. Stacking is especially important within the Breed ring. I pay close attention to stack my dog gently, swiftly, and efficiently as that tends to keep the judges gaze on my dog. Consistent details are what make a lasting impression on the judge, along with authenticity and connection between the dog and me.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Border Collies can be a wonderful breed for Junior Showmanship, but they are not for the faint of heart. They are highly intelligent, energetic, and extremely aware of their environment, which means they pick up on everything, including your emotions and body language. This makes them incredibly rewarding to work with if you have built a solid bond, but also quite challenging if you have not.
They require a focused and consistent handler, one who is ready to invest time into training and conditioning, not just physically but mentally too. Their high activity levels mean they are always ready to go, and that unpredictability can be both exciting and demanding. But when everything aligns and when the trust is there and the teamwork clicks, a Border Collie will give you their whole heart in the ring. It is that connection and responsiveness that makes them such unforgettable partners in Junior Showmanship.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Absolutely! There are so many breeds I admire and would love the opportunity to work with. At the top of my list is the Giant Schnauzer; they are bold, powerful, and carry themselves with such presence in the ring. I find them stunning. I am also really fascinated by the Xoloitzcuintli. Their unique look and ancient heritage make them incredibly intriguing, and I would love to experience the challenge and beauty of showing one.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Visibility and accessibility are key. A lot of young people simply do not know that Junior Showmanship exists, or they see it as something intimidating or exclusive. We need to change that by showing how welcoming, rewarding, and community-driven the sport can be. Social media, school outreach programs, and beginner-friendly events could really help open
the door.
Mentorship also plays a huge role. Having someone who takes the time to guide, support, and encourage you makes all the difference, especially in those early stages. Creating Junior Clubs or support groups within Kennel Clubs, offering workshops, and pairing newcomers with experienced handlers could help build both skill and confidence.
As someone from a multicultural background, I would also love to see more international exchange and inclusion. Encouraging Juniors from different countries to share their experiences, learn from one another, and celebrate cultural diversity could add a new layer of inspiration and unity to the sport. The more connected we feel, the more likely we are to stay and thrive in this community.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: While I have not bred or co-bred a litter myself yet, I have had the chance to be involved in many stages of the breeding process and those experiences have been incredibly educational. I have accompanied dogs for veterinary procedures such as semen collection and cryopreservation, helped track progesterone levels to determine ideal breeding times, and observed the planning involved in artificial insemination. I have also seen firsthand the importance of comprehensive health testing to screen for hereditary conditions.
On the puppy side, I have been involved in early care and socialization, helping to monitor litters, support whelping, and guide puppies through their earliest stages of life. These moments have deepened my appreciation for how much responsibility comes with breeding. It is not just about producing beautiful dogs, it is about safeguarding their health, temperament, and future.
Much of this knowledge has come through volunteering at both veterinary practices and kennels, and every experience has strengthened my commitment to doing things the right way, with purpose, ethics, and heart.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Yes, of course! Breeding is something I am passionate about pursuing in the future, but only with deep intention and responsibility. Breed preservation is incredibly important to me. Having been exposed to dog culture across different continents, I have seen firsthand how maintaining Breed Standards, both in form and function, plays a crucial role in honoring the history and purpose of each breed.
This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to work alongside the renowned Ria Vela Golden Retriever kennel in Spain. Spending time there gave me a much deeper understanding of ethical breeding practices, from selecting the right pairings to grooming, raising confident, well-socialized puppies, and ensuring the health and wellbeing of both the dam and the litter. That experience truly cemented my belief that breeding should never be about quantity but about quality, preservation, and purpose.
I also actively follow many respected breeders and kennels on social media who stand for impeccable quality and ethics. Their dedication to structure, soundness, and temperament inspires me daily.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Yes, without a doubt, this journey is far from over! I am incredibly proud to have represented Serbia and the Serbian Kennel Club in the Junior Handling competition at the 2025 World Dog Show in Helsinki. It was an honor I took very seriously, and I was so excited to step onto that world stage alongside some of the best young handlers. I also look forward to the possibility of representing Serbia at Crufts and future editions of the World Dog Show. One of my biggest dreams is to one day attend The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and participate in the Breed competition; it would be the ultimate milestone!
I fully intend to stay deeply involved in the dog world. I hope to continue showing at a professional level, expanding my experience across different breeds and rings around the world. I am also exploring the path to becoming a responsible and ethical breeder, something I approach with a great deal of respect and long-term commitment.
In terms of Junior Handling, I would love to eventually give back. Perhaps by mentoring young up-and-coming handlers, sharing what I have learned, and maybe even becoming a Juniors Judge one day. The ring has given me confidence, friendships, and a sense of purpose. I cannot wait to pay that forward and keep growing in every direction the dog world has to offer.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Kai holds a very special place in my heart. We have shared so many simple but meaningful moments together: long walks, playful training sessions, quiet car rides, and just being together at home. There is a calm and steady presence about him that brings a sense of comfort, even on the most stressful days.
What makes our bond so strong is that it was not built overnight; it grew over time through trust, patience, and shared experiences. He listens to me in his own way, and I have learned to read him just as carefully. I know that no matter where life takes me, the connection I’ve built with Kai will stay with me forever.
Tea Sovilj-Unkovski: Definitely! One moment that always makes me laugh happened at a show just as we were about to walk in the ring! Out of nowhere, my “macho” boy decided to squeeze himself under my skirt—right in front of everyone! I was caught completely off guard, trying not to burst out laughing while keeping my composure. The timing was classic Kai: confident, cheeky, and full of personality. It is those unexpected moments that remind me why I love this sport so much, because no matter how serious it gets, the dogs always bring joy and a bit of humor to the experience.
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