I cannot scream this loud enough: I am SOOO PROUD!!!
Okay, let me back up. In our sport of dogs, where we have all heard the phrase, “Juniors Are the Future,” but where many say, “Nope, Juniors Are Not the Future,” as they are not involved, they do not help, they are just jumping from dog to dog for a win…
Well, I am here to say, “SOME JUNIORS ARE INDEED THE FUTURE!”
Colorado is blessed with many talented Juniors. They are wonderful handlers, some of which came up through 4-H or have parents who are professional handlers, or who work for pro handlers, or are just kids with good dog-training skills.
But we also have some incredible Juniors who are well known for more than “handling.” These are the Juniors who can and will take our sport forward! Some are active members of local kennel clubs; some help other Juniors or new people in the sport; and some truly never let a dog show go by without coming to ask me, the Junior Foundation President, do you need any help?
At the Arapahoe Kennel Club Show, sadly, I had a dog emergency (nightmare of sorts); but I had tasks to do. I posted on Facebook and reached out to some of the local Juniors and their moms, and WHAT A BLESSING THESE JUNIORS ARE!
Junior Isabelle Bokelman stepped forward to lead Juniors Braylen Green, Kaylee Hunting, Katie Sorensen, and Kaylee Wagoner to set up and manage the club’s Pee Wee Special Attraction. They worked with the Show Chair and Club Secretary to ensure Liability Forms were completed (some of them had helped me with the forms previously). They logged in each Pee Wee. They arranged bags, rosettes, and prizes. They took photos of each Pee Wee, and announced and clapped for each Pee Wee team that came in the ring.
They properly wrapped up the paperwork. They put things away. And from what I heard and saw, they did a superb job!
Many of these Juniors, and a few others, have always had the heart and spirit of a volunteer. I think they also really enjoy being a part of things and having some responsibilities. To be noted—they are definitely very responsible young people!
Besides tackling the Pee Wee Special Attraction, they took over daily Junior ringside stuff. We always do something educational ringside, and we always have snacks. These kiddos, with help from some of their parents, were on it!
If you know me, you know I love kids and I love Juniors! And if you know me, you know I will always give credit and appreciation when and where it is due!
So, if you happen to see any of these fabulous Juniors, please tell them you appreciate them in the AKC (American Kennel Club) sport of purebred dogs. From what I see in them, you could be looking at a future Dog Club President or Show Chair; or perhaps an AKC Delegate or Board Member.
The future of our dog sport will be awesome with these Juniors as part of it!
By Marlene Groves, Junior Coordinator – Arapahoe Kennel Club
