Friday, April 04, 2008
Judge Credentials
You may have read that ARBA is working on changing the way prospective judges qualify in the future. Although nothing to my knowledge has passed, it looks like there is at least an interest in making it harder to become a judge.
Though I may take issue to some of the details, in general, I'm all for it. But I see a potential downside - breeders may feel discouraged before they even begin. And we already lack enough quality judges, in my opinion.
I don't think that we should avoid raising the bar. I just think that we as a community will need to work harder to encourage those who have the experience and potential to be judges.
That might include local clubs sponsoring the Judges Academy so that it can be held in other places besides Illinois. I know my trip there was very expensive and it would be impossible for me to make that trip again in the foreseeable future. I think it would be a great requirement, by the way. I got a lot out of it and would love to go again. But only holding it at the main office would make it prohibitive for too many people.
Encouraging may also include mentioning to an experienced breeder with an eye for evaluating rabbits that he or she should think about being a judge. When I tested to become a registrar, I had no plans whatsoever of becoming a judge. But after people kept asking me if that was my plan, I began thinking about it, and then began planning on it.
If you have an advanced herd in one or more breeds, make sure you have an open door policy for those studying to be a judge. I would love to visit a nice herd of English Spots right now because I realize that I just don't have the grasp on them that I'd like. I'd be interested in seeing any rare breed up close and personal.
I think it's a great idea to raise the bar. But doing so without adding more support and encouragement just might dry up the pool of applicants.
Laurie ¶ 7:33 PM
Though I may take issue to some of the details, in general, I'm all for it. But I see a potential downside - breeders may feel discouraged before they even begin. And we already lack enough quality judges, in my opinion.
I don't think that we should avoid raising the bar. I just think that we as a community will need to work harder to encourage those who have the experience and potential to be judges.
That might include local clubs sponsoring the Judges Academy so that it can be held in other places besides Illinois. I know my trip there was very expensive and it would be impossible for me to make that trip again in the foreseeable future. I think it would be a great requirement, by the way. I got a lot out of it and would love to go again. But only holding it at the main office would make it prohibitive for too many people.
Encouraging may also include mentioning to an experienced breeder with an eye for evaluating rabbits that he or she should think about being a judge. When I tested to become a registrar, I had no plans whatsoever of becoming a judge. But after people kept asking me if that was my plan, I began thinking about it, and then began planning on it.
If you have an advanced herd in one or more breeds, make sure you have an open door policy for those studying to be a judge. I would love to visit a nice herd of English Spots right now because I realize that I just don't have the grasp on them that I'd like. I'd be interested in seeing any rare breed up close and personal.
I think it's a great idea to raise the bar. But doing so without adding more support and encouragement just might dry up the pool of applicants.
Laurie ¶ 7:33 PM
