WHO IS THE FRANCHISE PLAYER ON YOUR TEAM? A s a judge and dog show mentor, I too often see exhibitors treat their dogs like children rather than as valued members of a team. In the competi- tive world of dog shows, treating the dog and the exhibitor as “franchise players” is a paradigm-shifting strategy that aligns perfectly with this arena’s high stakes of wins & losses and intense passion for the dog and its breed. In the competitive world of dog shows, understanding the “franchise player” concept is crucial for both the dog and the exhibitor-pilot.
First, let’s define the term “franchise player” to non-sports fans. According to Wikipedia, “…a franchise player is an athlete who is both the best player on their team and one that the team can build their ‘franchise’ around for the foreseeable future.” ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franchise_player ) Additionally, this one player determines the outcome of hundreds of millions of dollars. On a typical sports team, it is conceivable that the organization pays hun- dreds of thousands of dollars to ensure the well-being of this one player. As with sports teams, where a franchise player is central to a team’s success and branding, in dog shows, the exhibitor and the dog, as valuable co-players, form a dynamic partnership where each plays a crucial role in achieving victory and acclaim. This approach requires a deep understanding of three critical aspects: well-being, strategy, and marketing—for the dog and for the exhibitor. This ensures that each is nurtured, trained, and presented as a star in their own right. Similar to a star athlete’s role in sports, this strategy hinges on ensuring holistic well-being in five key areas. The five essential elements of well-being for both the dog and the exhibitor are each integral to their combined success in the competitive and passionate realm of purebred dog shows. 1. Professional Well-Being: For the dog, this involves engaging in training and activities that are both challenging and enjoyable, ensuring a mentally stimulated and happy show dog. For the exhibitor, it means finding fulfillment and continu- ous learning in showing dogs, setting personal goals, and celebrating incremental achievements. Essentially, this is about liking what you do every day. 2. Relationships in Harmony: The dog benefits from socialization with other dogs and humans, building a well-rounded temperament. Positive social relation- ships are essential for your dog. Similarly, the exhibitor should cultivate solid and constructive relationships within the dog show community for support and shared experiences. Breeding and showing dogs depends upon building strong relationships with other exhibitors and breeders. If you go to a show and leave after judging, you’re missing out on one of the key elements of the sport. Certainly, with little exposure to the ongoing excitement and thrills that build up over the day to a crescendo at Best in Show, your dog never really learns how to be a star. The energy around the BIS ring is just as electrifying as it is in the last few minutes of a football game with a close score.
BY LEE WHITTIER
160 | SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, FEBRUARY 2024
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