07/11/2026
Empire WDC American Schutzhund June Trial Recap
With over 20 competitors taking the field, Empire’s AS trial was an overwhelming success from start to finish. Events like this don’t happen by chance. They are the result of dedicated people coming together with a shared goal, working hard behind the scenes, supporting one another, and giving their time and energy to make something special happen.
First and foremost, thank you to every Empire member who volunteered, pitched in wherever needed, and helped create a welcoming, organized, and professional event. I also want to extend a sincere thank you to all of the competitors and supporters from outside our club who traveled to be with us. Your willingness to spend the weekend with Empire helped make this trial one to remember, and we truly appreciate your support.
A very special thank you goes to American Schutzhund’s newest judge, Tara Burke, for traveling all the way from South Carolina to judge our trial. We were honored to have you on our field, and we appreciate the professionalism, fairness, and encouragement you brought throughout the weekend.
We would like to recognize our trial helper, Tim Vaillancourt. Your powerful, consistent, and above all safe helper work gave every competitor and dog the opportunity to perform at their best. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the sport.
No trial would run as smoothly as this one without an exceptional trial secretary, and ours is second to none. Thank you, Trish Grant, for once again being at the top of your game. Your organization, attention to detail, and countless hours behind the scenes are a huge part of what makes our trials so successful.
To everyone who stepped onto the field with their dogs, congratulations. Whether you earned the title you were hoping for or not, every one of you represented yourselves and your dogs, with professionalism, determination, and outstanding sportsmanship. The encouragement competitors showed one another throughout the weekend is exactly what makes AS so special.
Congratulations to EWDC Members Tim, Mike, and Barb on earning their BTs! Your first title is an unforgettable milestone and the beginning of an exciting journey. You all looked fantastic.
Congratulations to EWDC Member Deb Z., who entered the AS1 to support the club even though she felt her dog wasn’t quite ready. Not only did they earn their AS1, but they also took home High Scent Detection and High Protection.
Congratulations to EWDC Member Karen on earning her Independent SW2 Certification.
And congratulations to EWDC Members Tim and Caitlin for earning their Independent AS3 Scent Work Certifications.
This weekend reminded me why Empire WDC is such a special club. When we work together, we accomplish amazing things. I’m incredibly proud of what we built together and grateful for every person who helped make this trial such a memorable success.
Thank you all for making Empire shine. We can’t wait to do it all again at our Fall Trial!
TRIAL RESULTS ⬇️
