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Swarm Event News

Our next Speedway trial is January 10th-11th. Register here!
Our next Scent trial is January 17th-18th. Register here!
Our next Agility trial is February 13th-15th. Register here!

Our 2026 Trial Calendars are Available!

Non-Member Private/Semi-Private lessons*  Book here

Non-Member Fitness & Conditioning* Book here

*Members, please book through the member's only page

Upcoming events

    • 5 Jan 2026
    • 9 Feb 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • Medina Swarm 257 Main Street Wadsworth (Enter off Pine St)
    • 5
    Register

    Puppy Obedience - S.T.A.R. Puppy Track
    Prerequisite: Puppies under six months old
    Instructors: Diane & Tami
    Mondays @ 6 pm, 1 hour
    6 Weeks / $150 starting Jan 5, 2026

    Includes: AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy is an exciting program designed to get dog owners and their puppies off to a good start. AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy is an excellent first in-person training class for puppies. AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy provides a good lead-in to earning the Canine Good Citizen title. Learn more here.


    • 5 Jan 2026
    • 9 Feb 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • Medina Swarm 257 Main Street Wadsworth (Enter off Pine St)
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Basic Obedience - Canine Good Citizen
    Prerequisite: Dogs over six months of age
    Instructors: Diane & Tami
    Mondays @ 7 pm, 1 hour
    6 Weeks / $150 starting Jan 5, 2026

    Includes: AKC Canine Good Citizen Test. AKC has created the Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) program: an expert-made training program designed to help you and your dog be the best you can be–together. Canine Good Citizen is a 10-skill test that teaches good manners to dogs and responsible dog ownership to their owners. Learn more here.


    • 5 Jan 2026
    • 26 Jan 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Medina Swarm 257 Main Street Wadsworth (Enter off Pine St)
    • 4
    Register

    Advanced Obedience - Competition Track
    Instructors: Chris J. & Shane M.
    Mondays @ 8 pm (30 mins-1 hr, depending on class size)
    4 Weeks / $100 starting Jan 5, 2026

    For teams who are or want to compete in Competition Obedience. Per AKC, “Obedience is one of the AKC’s oldest sporting events, and it’s open to all dogs. From walking on- and off-leash to retrieving and jumping, or demonstrating your dog’s ability to stay, Obedience trials feature dogs that are well-behaved at home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs. It is essential that the obedience dog demonstrates willingness and enjoyment while it is working with the handler.”


    • 6 Jan 2026
    • 3 Feb 2026
    • 5 sessions
    • Medina Swarm, 257 Main Street, Wadsworth OH 44281
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Five weeks, 1 hour class
    Level: All - Cherie will teach to your level!

    Prerequisite: None

    Instructor: Cherie

    You will have homework and will need to practice skills at home!

    Please note that class levels/times may be combined based on enrollment.

    • 6 Jan 2026
    • 3 Feb 2026
    • 5 sessions
    • Medina Swarm, 257 Main Street, Wadsworth OH 44281
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Five weeks, 1 hour class
    Level: All - Cherie will teach to your level!

    Prerequisite: None

    Instructor: Cherie

    You will have homework and will need to practice skills at home!

    Please note that class levels/times may be combined based on enrollment.

    • 6 Jan 2026
    • 3 Feb 2026
    • 5 sessions
    • Medina Swarm, 257 Main Street, Wadsworth OH 44281
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Five weeks, 1 hour class
    Level: All - Cherie will teach to your level!

    Prerequisite: None

    Instructor: Cherie

    You will have homework and will need to practice skills at home!

    Please note that class levels/times may be combined based on enrollment.

    • 6 Jan 2026
    • 27 Jan 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH
    • 1
    Register

    Instructor: Shane McConnell

    Intermediate Agility is designed for teams ready to tackle the complexities of international-style course design. We move beyond simple sequences to focus on the technical precision required by major venues like AKC (ISC/Premier), USDAA, and UKI.

    You will learn how to analyze high-level courses, handle advanced obstacle discriminations, and master the specialized maneuvers seen in International Sweepstakes Classes (ISC) and Premier events. This is for the team that is actively competing.

    The Backside Jump: Sending and pulling to the back side of a wing. Mapping the line from the dog’s perspective. Games tactics and strategic point-gathering
    Threadle & Serpentine: Mastering advanced handling for tight lines.
    Speed & Yardage: Calculating Yards Per Second (YPS) requirements.
    UKI & USDAA Mastery: Understanding differing venue rules and judging.
    Whiskey Turns: High-speed turns where the dog outpaces the handler.
    Obstacle Discrimination: Navigating "Tunnel vs. A-Frame" traps.
    ISC Criteria: 36" contact zones and specific jump height requirements.
    Blind Crosses: Advanced timing for side changes in extension.
    Layering: Handling a line while an obstacle sits between you and the dog.
    Qualifying Logic: How to "Q"
    Distance Commitment: Sending to 12-weave poles from 20+ feet away.
    Identifying the most efficient handler path.  

    Course Analysis & Walkthrough: Intermediate students learn to walk a course not just for direction, but for timing. We help you identify where you can save tenths of a second through tighter turns and better placement.

    Independent Logic: The dog must demonstrate 100% independent commitment to weaves and contacts even when the handler is layering or moving away.

    • 7 Jan 2026
    • 28 Jan 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH
    • 3
    Register

    Instructor: Lynn Frey-Steward

    Intermediate Agility is designed for teams ready to tackle the complexities of international-style course design. We move beyond simple sequences to focus on the technical precision required by major venues like AKC (ISC/Premier), USDAA, and UKI.

    You will learn how to analyze high-level courses, handle advanced obstacle discriminations, and master the specialized maneuvers seen in International Sweepstakes Classes (ISC) and Premier events. This is for the team that is actively competing.

    The Backside Jump: Sending and pulling to the back side of a wing. Mapping the line from the dog’s perspective. Games tactics and strategic point-gathering
    Threadle & Serpentine: Mastering advanced handling for tight lines.
    Speed & Yardage: Calculating Yards Per Second (YPS) requirements.
    UKI & USDAA Mastery: Understanding differing venue rules and judging.
    Whiskey Turns: High-speed turns where the dog outpaces the handler.
    Obstacle Discrimination: Navigating "Tunnel vs. A-Frame" traps.
    ISC Criteria: 36" contact zones and specific jump height requirements.
    Blind Crosses: Advanced timing for side changes in extension.
    Layering: Handling a line while an obstacle sits between you and the dog.
    Qualifying Logic: How to "Q"
    Distance Commitment: Sending to 12-weave poles from 20+ feet away.
    Identifying the most efficient handler path.  

    Course Analysis & Walkthrough: Intermediate students learn to walk a course not just for direction, but for timing. We help you identify where you can save tenths of a second through tighter turns and better placement.

    Independent Logic: The dog must demonstrate 100% independent commitment to weaves and contacts even when the handler is layering or moving away.

    • 7 Jan 2026
    • 28 Jan 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH
    • 1
    Register

    Instructor: Lynn Frey-Steward

    Intermediate Agility is designed for teams ready to tackle the complexities of international-style course design. We move beyond simple sequences to focus on the technical precision required by major venues like AKC (ISC/Premier), USDAA, and UKI.

    You will learn how to analyze high-level courses, handle advanced obstacle discriminations, and master the specialized maneuvers seen in International Sweepstakes Classes (ISC) and Premier events. This is for the team that is actively competing.

    The Backside Jump: Sending and pulling to the back side of a wing. Mapping the line from the dog’s perspective. Games tactics and strategic point-gathering
    Threadle & Serpentine: Mastering advanced handling for tight lines.
    Speed & Yardage: Calculating Yards Per Second (YPS) requirements.
    UKI & USDAA Mastery: Understanding differing venue rules and judging.
    Whiskey Turns: High-speed turns where the dog outpaces the handler.
    Obstacle Discrimination: Navigating "Tunnel vs. A-Frame" traps.
    ISC Criteria: 36" contact zones and specific jump height requirements.
    Blind Crosses: Advanced timing for side changes in extension.
    Layering: Handling a line while an obstacle sits between you and the dog.
    Qualifying Logic: How to "Q"
    Distance Commitment: Sending to 12-weave poles from 20+ feet away.
    Identifying the most efficient handler path.  

    Course Analysis & Walkthrough: Intermediate students learn to walk a course not just for direction, but for timing. We help you identify where you can save tenths of a second through tighter turns and better placement.

    Independent Logic: The dog must demonstrate 100% independent commitment to weaves and contacts even when the handler is layering or moving away.

    • 7 Jan 2026
    • 28 Jan 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH
    • 2
    Register

    Instructor: Shane McConnell

    Moving into Beginner Agility 2, the focus shifts from individual obstacles to the "flow" of a course. This level is divided into two modules (2A & 2B) to ensure both the handler and the dog have the stamina and technical skill to handle complex sequences and the two most challenging obstacles in the sport: the Teeter and the Weave Poles.

    You will move from single-obstacle performance to 3–5 obstacle sequences, requiring you to master the timing of your crosses and turns. This is a promotion-track class: Students must demonstrate independent performance on the Teeter and Weaves to move forward to Intermediate levels.

    The Weave Poles: Mastering the entry and exit at various angles.
    3–5 Obstacle Flow: Connecting jumps, tunnels, and contacts. Intro to Games: Learning the rules of Snooker, Jackpot, Fullhouse, etc.
    The Teeter: Building confidence with movement and the "bang."
    Front & Rear Crosses: Learning when and where to switch sides.
    Salo Jumping Level 2: Advanced jumping grids for extension and collection.
    Independent Performance: The dog completing the task without handler "babysitting."
    Tight Turns: Using wraps and cues to keep the dog on a precise line.
    Speed Evaluation: Measuring the dog's "YPS" (yards per second) for grading.
    Special Entries: Teaching the dog to find the tunnel or weave entry from a distance.
    Course Mapping: Learning to walk a line and choose the best handling path.
    Performance Diagnostic Update: Tracking consistency across the full obstacle set.

    Key Learning Objectives

    The Weave/Teeter Requirement: These two obstacles are the "gatekeepers" of agility. We spend dedicated time on weave pole entries (the hardest part!) and building a positive association with the moving board of the teeter.

    Sequencing Logic: You will learn how to handle "the line" between 3 to 5 obstacles. This requires faster footwork from the handler and better focus forward from the dog.

    Jumping (Salo Level 2): We expand on jumping mechanics to help your dog learn how to judge distances and adjust their stride for tight turns versus long sends.

    The Clock Matters: We introduce Speed Evaluations. Knowing your dog’s speed helps you determine if you can "outrun" them to a cross or if you need to rely on distance handling.

    Promotion Criteria

    To promote out of Beginner Agility 2, the team must pass a Graduation Evaluation, which includes:

    Independent Weaves: 6 poles with a successful entry from at least two different angles.

    Full Teeter: Confident performance with a controlled descent.

    Clean Sequence: Completion of a 5-obstacle sequence using at least one cross (Front or Rear).

    Pro Tip: Use your Performance DX sheet during every practice session. Consistency on the Teeter and Weaves is the primary indicator of readiness for the Intermediate level!

    • 7 Jan 2026
    • 28 Jan 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH
    • 3
    Register

    Instructor: Shane McConnell

    Moving into Beginner Agility 2, the focus shifts from individual obstacles to the "flow" of a course. This level is divided into two modules (2A & 2B) to ensure both the handler and the dog have the stamina and technical skill to handle complex sequences and the two most challenging obstacles in the sport: the Teeter and the Weave Poles.

    You will move from single-obstacle performance to 3–5 obstacle sequences, requiring you to master the timing of your crosses and turns. This is a promotion-track class: Students must demonstrate independent performance on the Teeter and Weaves to move forward to Intermediate levels.

    The Weave Poles: Mastering the entry and exit at various angles.
    3–5 Obstacle Flow: Connecting jumps, tunnels, and contacts. Intro to Games: Learning the rules of Snooker, Jackpot, Fullhouse, etc.
    The Teeter: Building confidence with movement and the "bang."
    Front & Rear Crosses: Learning when and where to switch sides.
    Salo Jumping Level 2: Advanced jumping grids for extension and collection.
    Independent Performance: The dog completing the task without handler "babysitting."
    Tight Turns: Using wraps and cues to keep the dog on a precise line.
    Speed Evaluation: Measuring the dog's "YPS" (yards per second) for grading.
    Special Entries: Teaching the dog to find the tunnel or weave entry from a distance.
    Course Mapping: Learning to walk a line and choose the best handling path.
    Performance Diagnostic Update: Tracking consistency across the full obstacle set.

    Key Learning Objectives

    The Weave/Teeter Requirement: These two obstacles are the "gatekeepers" of agility. We spend dedicated time on weave pole entries (the hardest part!) and building a positive association with the moving board of the teeter.

    Sequencing Logic: You will learn how to handle "the line" between 3 to 5 obstacles. This requires faster footwork from the handler and better focus forward from the dog.

    Jumping (Salo Level 2): We expand on jumping mechanics to help your dog learn how to judge distances and adjust their stride for tight turns versus long sends.

    The Clock Matters: We introduce Speed Evaluations. Knowing your dog’s speed helps you determine if you can "outrun" them to a cross or if you need to rely on distance handling.

    Promotion Criteria

    To promote out of Beginner Agility 2, the team must pass a Graduation Evaluation, which includes:

    Independent Weaves: 6 poles with a successful entry from at least two different angles.

    Full Teeter: Confident performance with a controlled descent.

    Clean Sequence: Completion of a 5-obstacle sequence using at least one cross (Front or Rear).

    Pro Tip: Use your Performance DX sheet during every practice session. Consistency on the Teeter and Weaves is the primary indicator of readiness for the Intermediate level!

    • 8 Jan 2026
    • 29 Jan 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Instructor: Shane McConnell

    Whether you’re looking to build a better bond with your dog or dreaming of the competition ring, this Agility Fundamentals course is the perfect starting line. This class focuses on building a rock-solid foundation through groundwork, equipment confidence, and the "language of handling."

    In this beginner-friendly program, we focus on proper performance, safety, and the essential communication skills needed to work as a seamless team. 

    What We’ll Cover

    Ladder Walk (Footwork) Figure Eights Tunnels (Straight & Curved)
    Paws Up & Accordion Down Tandem Turns Tire (Set at no height)
    Plank Walk Positions Flip Turns & Wrap and Run Hoops & Directionals
    Incline (Klimb/Propel) Back (Look back/Turn back) Basic Straight Grids
    Spin & Twist Laterals & Focus Forward Pinwheel (Peace Sign 3/4)
    Backing Up In/Out Commands Hit It Board
    Rear End Turns Recall to Hand (Touch) Barrel Drills
    Hoop Send to Target Incline Plank (Go/Turn)  

    We use Flat and Circle work to ensure your dog understands your body language before adding speed.

    Graduation Test: The course concludes with Speedway Games! All graduates receive a discount coupon to enter their first official Speedway event.

    Who Is This For?
    The Handler: No previous experience required! We teach you where to put your feet and how to use your body to "steer" your dog.

    The Dog: Open to all breeds. Dogs should have a basic understanding of "Sit" and "Stay" and be comfortable working around other dogs on leash.

    Note: For the safety of growing joints, all jumping work and the tire obstacle are kept at "no height" or low impact during this fundamental phase.

    • 8 Jan 2026
    • 29 Jan 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH
    • 1
    Register

    Instructor: Shane McConnell

    Building on your Agility Foundations, this conditioning intensive course is designed to bridge the gap between basic groundwork and the physical demands of obstacle performance. By combining the world-renowned jumping mechanics of Susan Salo with the evidence-based canine fitness protocols of McIntyre, we ensure your dog develops the power, form, and structural integrity needed for a long, healthy career in agility.

    Course Overview

    Agility is a high-impact sport. Jump Fit focuses on the "how" of jumping—teaching dogs how to judge distance, weight shift, and use their bodies efficiently before they ever face a full-height course. This class isn't just about clearing bars; it’s about building a balanced athlete.

    Salo Grids & McIntyre Fitness
    Improving "body awareness" and foot placement. Set-Point Work: Teaching the dog where to take off and land.
    Extension & Collection: Mastering the gears of canine movement.
    Consistency: Fewer knocked bars and safer landings. Injury Prevention: Strengthening the core and stabilizer muscles.
    Confidence: A dog that understands their own physical reach.
       

    The Jump Fit Curriculum

    Foundation Grids (Susan Salo): We utilize low-impact jumping grids to instill proper muscle memory. Your dog will learn to focus on the bar, adjust their stride, and develop a "round" jumping arc without the pressure of handler motion.

    Targeted K9 Fitness (McIntyre): Using specialized equipment (balance pods, discs, and planks), we focus on core stability, rear-end awareness, and joint health.

    Progressive Skills: We use a clear, step-by-step progression. We start with flatwork and "ground bars" to ensure your dog understands the criteria before increasing complexity.

    Prerequisites

    Completion of Agility Foundations, CGC (Canine Good Citizen), or S.T.A.R. Puppy.

    Alternatively, an instructor evaluation may be requested for teams with equivalent experience.

    • 10 Jan 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 11 Jan 2026
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH


    Saturday

    Pitstop (4 rounds)

    Slingshot (4 rounds)

    Pole Position Solo (4 rounds)

    Sunday

    Pole Position Solo (4 rounds)

    Slingshot (4 rounds)

    Pitstop (4 rounds)

    My Dog Entry Online

    Premium
    • 17 Jan 2026
    • 7:30 AM
    • 18 Jan 2026
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH
    • 28 Jan 2026
    • 4 Mar 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • Medina Swarm 257 Main Street Wadsworth (Enter off Pine St)
    • 6
    Register

    Basic Obedience - Canine Good Citizen

    Includes: AKC Canine Good Citizen Test. AKC has created the Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) program: an expert-made training program designed to help you and your dog be the best you can be–together. Canine Good Citizen is a 10-skill test that teaches good manners to dogs and responsible dog ownership to their owners. Learn more here.


    • 7 Feb 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 8 Feb 2026
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH


    Saturday

    Pitstop (4 rounds)

    Slingshot (4 rounds)

    Pole Position Solo (2 rounds)

    Sunday

    Pole Position Solo (2 rounds)

    Slingshot (4 rounds)

    Pitstop (4 rounds)

    My Dog Entry Online

    Premium
    • 13 Feb 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • 15 Feb 2026
    • Medina Swarm Agility 257 Main St. Wadsworth, Oh


    Friday

    Standard 5C x 2 Rounds


    Saturday

    Fullhouse
    Standard x 2 Rounds
    Wildcard
    Snooker
    Jumpers


    Sunday

    Jumpers

    Wildcard
    Jackpot
    Standard
    Colors


    ONLINE ENTRY HERE

    Paper Premium Here
    • 28 Feb 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 1 Mar 2026
    • Medina Swarm Agility, 257 Main St., Wadsworth, OH


    Saturday

    Pitstop (4 rounds)

    Slingshot (4 rounds)

    Pole Position Solo (2 rounds)

    Sunday

    Pole Position Solo (2 rounds)

    Slingshot (4 rounds)

    Pitstop (4 rounds)

    My Dog Entry Online

    Premium


Get In Touch

   

Email: contactswarm@gmail.com

Address: 257 Main St., Wadsworth, Ohio

Mon - Sat: 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

Copyright© 2025 | Medina Swarm Agility & Dog Training, all rights reserved.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 344, Sharon Center, OH 44274

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