The concept of a Junior Achiever program was first presented at the Semi-Annual meeting of TICA in Harlingen in February 2005.  The program was well received.  A committee of members from several regions was formed to look further into developing a TICA wide Junior program, and regional junior achiever program liaisons were appointed by each regional director. 

 

Sue Cherau, my mom, was appointed the Northeast Region Liaison by our Regional Director.  She coordinates Junior Rings and Clinics with local clubs in our region and keeps all the paperwork for Juniors who join our regional JA group, the Northeast Region Junior Achievers (NEJA). 

In the TICA Junior Achiever program, the cat is not judged. The Junior handler is judged on the ability to handle their cat, answer basic questions according to their age and Level of Achievement (Junior Novice, Intermediate, Advanced; Senior Novice, Intermediate, Advanced) about basic feline husbandry and their breed, presentation of their cat including attitude of both during showing, grooming and basic TICA rules. Juniors present their cats in perfect condition, meticulous grooming and understand how to present the best qualities of their cat to the judge. The purpose of the Junior Achiever Program is to encourage youth to be interested in feline competition, welfare and husbandry.  TICA hopes to inspire a better understanding to participating youth in the workings of the JA program and the organization. Its purpose is to mentor and encourage our youth to learn about showing as an exhibitor, the responsibilities of a Junior club and TICA member and to understand the planning and execution of a TICA show.

 

The TICA Junior Achiever Committee is currently working on a set of regulations, guidelines, and practical information for this new program.  Stay tuned for more information...

For More Information about the TICA JA Program,

 please visit the TICA Junior Achiever Website

Christian—currently at the JA Senior Novice Level has started his training as a TICA clerk.  Shown here with Odette Lamoureux, one of our region’s Allbreed Judges.

Emilie—currently at the JA Junior Advanced Level not far behind.