January 2025
Exciting News!
GroomTeam has decided to add two new breeds for the 2026-2027 show cycles. They are:
Glen of Imaal Terrier – 2 hour time limit
Parson Russell Terrier – 1 hour 45 minute time limit
January 2025
Judging Process
Beginning in 2026, GroomTeam USA will implement a streamlined judging process. Judges are limited to the maximum of 3 assignments per class per year. This adjustment (applies exclusively to GroomTeam USA sanctioned classes) aims to ensure consistency, uphold the integrity of evaluations, and enhance overall efficiency during competitions. Example: Judge A has judged 3 open level poodle classes this year, they are ineligible to judge any more open level poodle classes for the remainder of the year at any sanctioned show. In collaboration with show promoters, GroomTeam USA Board and judges are working together to ensure the integrity and fairness of the competitive ring. In order to hold and protect accountability a spread sheet of judges will be available on groomteamusa.org
December 31, 2024
Beginning in 2025, GroomTeam USA® Board of Directors has implemented a Grievance Liaison to be present at all GroomTeam USA® sanctioned shows to facilitate a proactive approach to resolving issues promptly and transparently. This person will be available if an infraction occurs against the Conflict of Interest Policy, Code of Conduct, or Standards of Conduct and Sportsmanship Rules.
The Grievance Liaison’s sole responsibility is to create a timeline of events, gather information pertaining to the infraction, and present it to the board. Grievances must be filed by the end of the show. The liaison will provide the Board with the information and within five days of the close of the show the Board will decide how to proceed. The grievance liaison for each show will be listed on the 2025 show calendar available on groomteamusa.us. Grievances will still be accepted through GroomTeam USA’s® website if an infraction occurs outside of a GroomTeam USA® sanctioned show against the Code of Conduct or Standards of Conduct and Sportsmanship Rules. Any past Top 10 or current point holder must adhere to these rules.
December 17, 2024
Dear Grooming Community
The Board of Directors received several inquiries as to whether a competitor is able to be judged by a mentor or by a judge that the competitor was receiving instruction from for the World Championships. After reviewing our conflict of interest policy the board has voted to not award points from Groom South which took place December 7, 2024. The decision was made due to the following sections of the policy.
- Personal Mentoring Relationship with judge(s) assigned during the timeframe(s) of that sanctioned class(es). (Excluding post contest critiques).
- Private or semi-private instruction (less than six attendees) within four months of competition.
As a result, the board has determined that while the competitor can still compete under this judge in future events, they will not be eligible to earn GroomTeam USA points in such cases due to the nature of their relationship. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
GroomTeam USA Board of Directors