2026 Youth Nationals Judge Announcement
January 26, 2026
Source: Danielle Champ
Job Title: Bench Show Program Manager
Department: Hunting Ops
Email: dchamp@ukcdogs.com
Theres just something different about watching a kid take the lead with a hound. The moment in the woods when their light flips on and they step off the path. Always a little unsure at first, then steadier with every step. They learn quick that a good night isnt only about winning. Its about listening to a dog work, figuring out what the track is doing, staying patient when it gets quiet, and grinning ear to ear when that locate rolls over into a steady chop. You cant fake that kind of excitement. When a kid calls it right, or walks into a tree with confidence, its more than a hunt. Its a lesson in responsibility, grit, and believing in something theyve worked so hard for.
And then you see that same pride on the bench show side. A youth exhibitor might be small, but the way they set those feet, straighten a top line, and keep their dog calm and focused tells you everything you need to know. Theyre learning how to handle pressure, how to present with sportsmanship, and how to accept feedback. Whether they win their class or not. When a kid looks up at a judge and listens, then adjusts and tries again, thats the kind of growth that lasts long after the ribbons put away.
What makes it so special is that these moments dont just build young competitors. They build confident young people. Youth hunts and youth bench shows create memories that stick with them forever. Riding in the truck with family, laughing around the clubhouse, trading stories, cheering for friends, and learning that the real win is showing up, trying hard, doing it the right way, and putting in the work really does pay off in the end.
Thats the heart of Youth Nationals, kids, hounds, and a weekend that reminds all of us why this sport matters.
Respected judges are a big part of what makes UKC Youth Nationals such a meaningful event. They help ensure every class is evaluated with consistency, professionalism, and integrity so that youth exhibitors and handlers can compete with confidence and know the results are earned. Just as important, great judges set the tone for the entire weekend by creating a positive, encouraging atmosphere where kids can learn, grow, and enjoy the moment while still holding the standard high. With that in mind, United Kennel Club is proud to announce the official judges for the 2026 UKC Youth Nationals in Greenville, Pennsylvania, at the Mercer County Coon Hunters Club.
Fridays Youth Spotlight Bench Show Judge
Jay Lahey
Hello everyone! My name is Jay Lahey, and Im honored to serve as your Friday Bench Show Judge for the 2026 Youth Nationals.
I grew up in southern Wisconsin, where my love for coonhunting began alongside my older brother and his friend. That introduction turned into nearly 40 years of coonhunting, a journey that my brother and our friend and I continued until my wife (of 23 years) and I relocated to Virginia 17 months ago. Since the move, Ive truly enjoyed helping out with the Southampton CHA in Franklin, Virginia.
2026 marks my 20th year serving as a UKC and AKC Bench Show Judge and Master of Hounds. Over the years, Ive had the honor of judging many outstanding events, including the Heartland Classic, Bluetick Reunion, TWBFA Walker Days, Wayne County CHA Xmas RQE event, Wisconsin State Youth Championships, Jefferson County CHA Family Fun Days, and numerous State Championships.
I am beyond honored that UKC selected me to judge this years Friday Bench Show at the Youth Nationals. I look forward to being a helping hand to all in attendance, supporting our youth competitors, and being a positive influence while enjoying everything this great event has to offer.
Saturdays Youth Nationals Bench Show Judge
Todd Turner
I am a 3rd generation coonhunter. My great grandfather passed coonhunting down to my dad and he passed it to me. I have owned English dogs my entire life, showing for 43 years and hunting from the time I could make it through the woods.
I have been a Bench Show Judge for 29 years and a Master of Hounds for 27 years. Over the years, I've judged many breed sectionals and Regional Qualifying Events. A highlight being judging the Bluetick Breeders of America Spring hunt twice.
I married Stephanie 25 years ago and live with her in Conneaut Lake, PA. Together we have 2 children, Nathaniel and Camille. Both kids have also enjoyed raising, training, hunting, and showing our dogs. In addition to our dogs, Stephanie and I have also started raising and showing Silver Marten rabbits. We love God, family, and the outdoors. I want to thank UKC for the opportunity to judge Youth Nationals and aiding in passing along our tradition to the next generation.
Guided by the belief that dogs make a difference by being the best partner a human can have in the field, on the job, or in a competition event, UKC is a community for people and dogs to pursue excellence together. Founded in 1898, UKC has been dedicated to enhancing the lives of Dogs That Do More, and their owners, by providing essential resources to help owners and breeders make informed decisions. The dog-human bond is celebrated through family-friendly programs highlighting the instincts and heritage of purebred and mixed-breed dogs alike at over 18,000 licensed events annually.