I am honored to nominate John Lugo for the 2026 Sportsman of the Year Award. Over the years, I have watched him pour his heart into every dog and handler who steps onto the field. John maintains a true open-door policy, welcoming anyone and everyone to train with him, regardless of experience level. His field is a place where people feel supported, encouraged, and challenged to be better.

He is also the kind of person who is always prepared to help. I have never known John to travel without his bite suit, just in case someone needed a decoy, or an extra set of hands, to get the work done. He is consistently willing to jump in with a smile on his face and, often, a ukulele in hand, bringing both skill and positivity wherever he goes.

Two recent examples highlight his dedication, though they are far from the only ones. As the 2025 FMBB Team Leader, John stepped into the role with limited time before the trip to Greece. He immediately took charge, organized logistics, and advocated for the team from day one. Once overseas, he kept the team’s best interests at the forefront, whether that meant securing parking close to the field in the shade or ensuring safe, fair routines during the trial. He was never afraid to speak up when it mattered and made sure Team USA presented itself as a unified, professional group.

More recently, we traveled to Texas for the Lone Star Mondioring Club’s 50th Annual Trial so I could compete with Rally. When severe weather forced one of the decoys to leave early, John didn’t hesitate, he put on the suit and worked the remainder of the trial. This selflessness is something I have witnessed countless times over the years. In fact, it is rare to attend a trial where John is not contributing in some meaningful capacity.

John’s passion for Mondioring, his unwavering sportsmanship, and his genuine desire to see every dog and handler succeed make him exceptionally deserving of this recognition. He is the definition of a team player and represents the very best of our sport, all while wearing that signature smile.

Let me tell you a short story.

I approached John almost 5/6 years ago just wanting to “do something fun” with my adult malinois who had already been though some conflict with bite work. He enjoyed it, but was not great at it an a very derpy boy. John said I could come, but only if I started training for some Mondio exercises. So I did. He walked me through everything, every step of the way. He helped me trouble shoot and undo a TON of bad habits me and my dog (Drax) had been taught.

John treated us exactly like he treated the members who were training for their MR3s, nationals, etc. I never felt less than, or like I shouldn’t be there because of the trainer I was and the dog I had.

We continued training and a couple years later, I asked if he thought there was ever a chance for me and Drax to hit the trial field and he said absolutely. If I wanted to, he’d help me and get me there. He held to that commitment and we trialed for the first time in 2023, then again in 2024. John got a dog and trainer who should’ve never hit a field a passing OBJ1.

John completely believes in every single club member & gives them each his best. He is fair in his expectations and in his drive to help each team be their best. Whatever version that is. John continues to make our club and sport a place of acceptance, accountability and understanding. I have been around a lot of dog people, working and sport, and have experienced the toxic culture first hand but never from John or our club.

He now continues to help me prep my next competition dog (also who started as an adult and we’re having to undo stuff with) who is completely different and pushes me in new ways. John helps me trouble shoot and train a dog who was bred for something completely different. He steps up for me and my dog exactly the same way he stood up for the world’s team. He has shown me what a true team member and team leader is supposed to look like.

John is always willing to help ANYONE, even before he gets help himself. There have been plenty of club days where we have had to MAKE him work his own dog before the very end because they deserve the time just as much as everyone else.

Off the field, I know I can count on John in real life as well. While I’ve had personal struggles during my time as club member, John has always been a listening ear, a sounding board and a solid place of advice. I had to take months off of training to care for my old man Drax in 2025 and John graciously took on my current dog so her training would not suffer. I also ended up with partial custody of my nephew (born in 2023) and have had to bring him to with me on numerous occasions. I have never felt like a burden and sometimes, I believe Owen likes John more than he likes me! John has helped hold, rock and occupy Owen if needed while I was training & for that I am so thankful. He does not have to help, but he will ALWAYS find a way for his club members. I don’t just feel like a club member, I truly feel like a friend and family to John. I cannot thank him enough for all the support from the past years and going forward!

John is a Terrific guy and extremely nice and Knowledgeable. He exudes a sense of inclusion which is refreshing.