DACOF Works Because We All Work!
- dacofadmin
- May 5
- 3 min read
Hello DACOF Members,
One of the core principles of our organization is simple:
DACOF works because we all work!
Now that most team entries have been submitted (with a few exceptions – you know who you are – we’ve reached out to you!), it is time for Team Captains to begin planning their team worker assignments. While some positions such as Bar Setter or Scribe Sheet Runner can be filled by almost anyone, others, especially the Scribe, require experience and a solid understanding of the role. It is the responsibility of each Team Captain to ensure that every position is staffed by an able and competent individual.
In short, Team Captains must assign workers who have the appropriate skills to successfully fulfill each role.
There is still plenty of time, and several agility trials before the DACOF event, for Team Captains to help train potential workers and for members to gain experience. We strongly encourage all DACOF members to volunteer for one or more of the skilled positions such as Scribe, Timer, or Gate Steward at upcoming trials. This is a great way to build confidence and experience, and local clubs will certainly appreciate the extra help.
As in recent years, Team Captains will have the opportunity to self-elect several skilled worker positions through an online sign-up, which will be available shortly after the DACOF entry deadline of May 22, 2026. This process has been very well received and allows teams to select key roles in advance. Remaining assignments will be scheduled around these selections.
Please stay tuned for more details about the online worker sign-up.
In the meantime, here is a summary of DACOF worker expectations:
General Requirements:
Each team will be required to staff 10+ Worker Spots over the DACOF Weekend.
Partial teams (with four or fewer dogs) will be assigned 5+ Worker Spots to staff.
Organizations sending multiple teams should identify at least two workers per team, for example four workers for two teams or six workers for three teams.
Teams will be assigned one or more jobs each round.
If a team cannot provide a capable worker for an assigned position, that team will not be allowed to run the class and will receive scores of zeros for that round.
Here is a brief description of the jobs to run a ring:
Ring Captain
Ensures all worker positions are filled and ready before each round begins. This role is especially critical in the 15 minutes prior to the start of a session. The Ring Captain must also monitor the ring throughout the session to ensure positions remain covered. If the Ring Captain's assigned walk through would normally be the last walk through before the next round starts, they must instead, walk with the first or second walk-through group!
Gate Steward
Keeps the running order moving efficiently and communicates any changes with the Gate/Scribe Assistant. We will again use the Agility Gate app for check-in and gate sheets, with a paper backup available.
Gate/Scribe Assistant
Acts as the liaison between the Gate Steward and Scribe. Confirms each dog’s name and number and ensures the correct scribe sheet is provided. This will not be a sit-down job!
Scribe
A skilled position requiring experience. The Scribe records the judge’s calls such as faults and refusals and the dog’s run time to three decimal places. Accuracy and attention to detail are essential.
Timer
Ensures the timer starts for each run and provides the official time to the Scribe to three decimal places. Alerts the judge if the timer fails to start.
Ring Crew 1, 2, 3
Resets bars, adjusts equipment, and assists the judge as needed to keep the ring running efficiently.
Exit Gate Ring Crew
Will get the dog and handler in a gated area, close the gate, and then have the handler put on harness/leash so the next dog can begin promptly. Do not open the gate until the dog has completed its final obstacle!
Scribe Runner
Delivers completed scribe sheets to the score table in batches to maintain scoring flow. Bring 3 or 4 sheets at a time, so the score table can keep up.
Leash Runner
Transfers the leash or harness from the start area to the finish area.
Course Builders
Typically assigned by team and responsible for building and resetting courses quickly and efficiently between classes.
Thank you all for your continued support and participation. Your efforts are what make this event successful year after year.
And remember, DACOF works because we all work!
Stay tuned for additional updates.
Best regards,Bill, Kathy, Jen, Erica and Ashley
