Utility University School News   The Proofing Edging to Trial   Our learning and excitement has been steady and at times, inexplicable to state, adequately, only because we're the "green team". Learning from one another is something I'd never want to change. Our bond is deeper than ever, our connection priceless. The ride or journey has been worth our investment two-fold, to the degree I am somewhat wearing cement shoes in recent months, wanting to stretch out to enjoy what we have accomplished to date. Our motto is simple: we train and compete to enjoy and expand within ourselves. We're having a blast! "K" is for Koshare   Oh where to begin? Just when you think you've got it down, well, think again! For the most part, we train indoors, one on one. Short and sweet is our formula, a twenty minute session, usually less, is all it takes. When an element is performed accurately, we end it on a positive note, breaking out with a huge party, treats and plenty of praise to drive home the taste of success. Nothing is more satisfying than to see Koshare's huge grin and self esteem sky rocket, although admitedly, she's a pretty confident worker who legitmately enjoys her tasks. Alternatively, when we goof, oh boy, do we ever! My remedy? Immediate modifications, eradicating any stray ideas to cloud proper technique. One thing I know as fact with Koshare; repetition is so very boring. Once she masters a move correctly, it's time to move forward, celebrate, ending the training session on a high, with a thirst for more. I've learned, repetition is exclusively reserved for proofing, unless I want to see my partner flip the paw at me, an expression I've pegged, "Koshie is getting bent". Now, move these skills outside and that's when the real fun begins some may say. Same skills- sure, but a difficult environment changes the playing field quite a bit. Flying insects, buzzing bees, planes overhead, airescenting, maybe a touch of rain? Raising the bar with optimum attention and focus are imperative to stay in the game. We're not out of the woods in that department, although we're improving via experience and some maturity. Yet, many may argue, " Well what do you expect, after all, you train with an Airedale!". My rebuttal? "You betcha! -And, I wouldn't have it any other way!"   The Sport of Sportsmanship This green team plays with gusto! We so enjoy the process of connecting the pieces. As with any sport, there are those stellar performances you want to see last forever, then there are some which don't quite make the mark. But, to be apart, means you're in the game! Nobody ever said Utility was a walk in the park, who would want something so attainable? Rising to the top for us, means making a pledge to one another to work to the best of our ability, smiling, enjoying, then succeeding That's the sport. It's not all about the win, it's about defining who we are as a team, what we bring to the game. An Airedale is a versatile, "can do it all" breed and we plan to do just that. Our definition of sportsmanship is perhaps deeper than where my words can define. Nevertheless, our enjoyment and dedication to the sport of obedience has us ready to rock'in & roll'in with the best of them. Stay tuned...