Events

SEMINAR & VIRTUE MATCH

Moderator: Tom Coen (Macdega)

The  A.S.S.C.A. was very pleased to offer the opportunity to listen and learn with one of our breeds
top Breeder / Handlers.

 
    The Alberta Shetland Sheepdog & Collie Association was honored to have Tom Coen (Macdega) in Calgary from September 21-22 2002 to present his “All in the Family” seminar. The 2 day seminar was held at the Calgary Canine Center, and proved to be an excellent choice of venue in order to hold this event. The first day was spent talking about early breed origin and imports from the UK by American kennels such as Pocono, Page’s Hill, Sheltieland & Annhassitt developing through early & modern day kennels of today. The second day was a volunteer virtue match that allowed our audience a chance to enter their dogs in various categories ranging from head, skull, expression, out-line, front, rear and side movement. Each category was judged accordingly, as to the breed standard. Our judges consisted of Nioma Coen (Macdega), Judy Decker (Elbee) and a guest judge that was randomly chosen from the audience for each individual category. Overall, the seminar was simple and easy to understand and follow. Tom’s knowledge of the breed’s history was exceptional. What was most helpful at times was the way that Tom continually referred back to something he had spoken of earlier to help keep us “on track” with the relationships between dogs or a particular breeding that he wanted us to pay closer attention to. It was also very fascinating to have the opportunity to see some of these dogs, as presented by Tom in a slide show format. Up until this time most of us had only heard of these dogs in our pedigrees. Tom pointed out the different traits that earlier kennels had passed down through their lines. The reddish harsh coat and sweet expression’s from the Sea Isle lines, or the larger boned and lengthier necked types of the Banchory lines. At several times through out the seminar Tom entertained questions from the audience and he periodically would propose one of his own to keep you thinking. Tom spoke about training the eye and developing a true detailed picture of type. He went on to say that over years he had been breeding towards this picture in his head. He had to train his eye not only to see his dog’s strengths but to also see their faults as well. At this point he was able to improve upon his dogs, and achieve the goals he set for himself. I remember one of his slides in particular of 3 sable puppies and thinking which one I would pick? The one on the left was very nice, but looked like a lot of dog. The one in the middle was a little lesser dog but still pretty and the one on the right was out of contention. I picked the middle dog and was happy to hear that I also picked PETER. Tom placed special emphasis on having a plan, and knowing our breed standard. Breeding each litter carefully as to build upon that plan, always putting the best interest of the breed above all else. It’s up to all of us to carry on this tradition that has brought us to where we are today. Rather than watch from the side lines, get involved, ask questions and educate yourselves as much as you can. Any responsible breeder will tell you that they are always learning something new about the breed each day. It’s our duty that we should give back the knowledge we gain every opportunity we get. Who knows, the knowledge you share today just might inspire, encourage or motivate someone tomorrow….and really, isn’t that what we all want to be remembered for doing?

    Thank you, Tom & Nioma for allowing us the opportunity to get to know you. And thank you for sharing and making every effort to further the development of our breed, you are truly an inspiration to us all.