Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association
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Interested in becoming a NDGA Judge??

NDGA JUDGE'S TRAINING

To become a NDGA Licensed Judge, you need to attend NDGA Official Judge's Training School (JTS). This two or three day school (depending on number of applicants) is conducted by the NDGA Head Trainer with the assistance of other nigerian dwarf experts and Licensed Judges. The training will include classroom and hands-on instruction with a sampling of nigerian dwarf goats. It will also includ a classroom test with those who pass the written test eligible to take the oral portion of the exam. $100 - Judge's Training (for License) $75 - Audit. Auditors may upgrade to JT at time of training by paying balance. During the JTS you will receive classroom instruction in:

  • NDGA Show Rules
  • NDGA Breed Standards
  • Detailed Study of the Nigerian Dwarf Structure
  • Instruction in Conformation Evaluation
  • Major Faults and Disqualifications
  • Ethical Behavior of Judging
  • Nigerian Dwarf Anatomy
  • Show Organization and rules
  • Showring Protocol in Judging
  • Descriptive Terms Used in Giving Reasons
  • Importance of Accurate Oral Reasoning in Placings

The written portion of the examination will be given in a classroom setting for which a passing grade of 80% is required. The written part of the examination can also be administered at any time prior to JTS by an NDGA official or approved proxy. This allows a "second chance" test to be taken during the JTS testing phase to help ensure a better grade. The written portion will consist of:

  • Labeling a Nigerian Dwarf Goat illustration with names of body parts
  • Ranking and evaluating seriousness of faults
  • Answering statements concerning the conformation of animals according to the NDGA breed standard
  • Filling in the blanks regarding show rules and special aspects of judging

The oral portion of the examination will be given in a show ring environment using sample classes of animals. It will consist of:

  • Placing classes with at least 80% accuracy
  • Giving good, accurate, acceptable reasons for your placings on classes with scores of at least 80% (determined by training panel) on accuracy and presentation

When you have successfully completed training and passed your written and oral examinations, you will offered a NDGA Official Judge's License, which is a breed specific license to judge Nigerian Dwarf Goats at NDGA sanctioned and unsanctioned shows. The license will be renewable yearly for judges with memberships in good standing. A license renewal fee ($10) along with a current membership is required to upkeep your judge's license.

NDGA judges will be required to participate in JTS, pass the written and oral examinations IF: 1. A judge has not renewed their yearly license fee of $10 within 18 months. 2. A judge has not judged a NDGA show witin an 18 month period.

Any additional questions should be directed to Sandi Liska, Judge's Training Chair, (928) 343-1127.