The American Kennel Club Announces Recipients Of The Inaugural President’s Sportsman Award

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the leading voice for canine welfare and responsible dog ownership, is pleased to announce that Agi Hejja and Julia “Maddie” Powers were presented with the inaugural President’s Sportsman Award at the 25th AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin in Orlando, FL on Saturday, December 13th.

The award honors one Junior and one adult exhibitor who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the principles outlined in the AKC Code of Sportsmanship and Civility. It seeks to recognize those whose conduct consistently reflects integrity, mentorship, and respect within the dog sports community.

“It is my pleasure to recognize Agi and Maddie for their exemplary sportsmanship, devotion to dogs and their passion for welcoming and helping others in this wonderful community,” said Gina M. DiNardo, AKC President and CEO. “They are a shining representation of the ideals laid out in AKC Code of Sportsmanship and Civility, and we are excited to see the mark they will leave on the world of dog sports.”

Born and raised in Hungary, Agi Hejja came to the United States on her own as a teenager and found purpose in the working dogs she had admired since childhood. Her early experiences shaped the disciplined, historically grounded approach she brings to every facet of her work.

A member of the Kuvasz Club of America (KCA) since 1972, Agi has played a central role in preserving the soundness, working heritage, and dignity of the Kuvasz. She has also been a committed Leonberger breeder and member of the Leonberger Club of America since 1990, contributing to the breed’s development in the United States and setting a high standard for structural integrity, temperament, and ethical breeding.

As chair of the Judges Education Committee for both national parent clubs, Agi has taught countless AKC and FCI judges how to evaluate her breeds with historical perspective and functional insight. Many new breeders credit Agi for guiding their first steps and offering reassurance long after their initial questions.

Julia “Maddie” Powers, age 17, is a third-generation Tibetan Spaniel breeder whose lifelong connection to the breed has shaped her junior career. Maddie is especially proud of her partnership with her Tibetan Spaniel, Zemi, with whom she earned a memorable Best of Breed win at Westminster.

Known for her kindness, sportsmanship, and dedication to supporting fellow juniors, Maddie strives to represent the best of the sport. She is honored to be the inaugural Junior recipient of the AKC President’s Sportsmanship Award.

To learn more about the award, visit https://www.akc.org/press-releases/american-kennel-club-establishes-presidents-sportsman-award/.

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Posted by Liz on Dec 17 2025. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.