If you’ve ever competed at a U-FLI Flyball event, chances are you’ve seen him — calm, focused, and smiling no matter how long the day has been. That’s Kevin Hesse, Head Judge for U-FLI and one of the most respected figures in the sport. 
During our ongoing interview series at the 1-TDC Flyball Tournament of Champions, I (Olivier Morin, co-founder of 1-TDC / worksSOwell) sat down with Kevin to learn what it really takes to stand in the ring all weekend long, call split-second decisions, and keep Flyball fair, fun, and thriving.
From “Dog Dad” to Head Judge
Kevin’s Flyball story started nearly 20 years ago — not as a judge, but as the supportive husband tagging along to tournaments.
“My wife was competing first,” Kevin recalls. “I was just going to help and thought, ‘maybe I could do something while I’m here.’ Watching the judges, I thought that looked interesting.”
That curiosity soon turned into a calling. After years of running his own dogs, Kevin joined the judging program around 2010 – 2011. His commitment and steady presence eventually earned him the title of Head Judge a couple of years ago when Steve McAvoy (not Corona, that’s NAFA) stepped down.
“I just really enjoy being in the ring — working with competitors, promoting the sport, and helping keep it consistent. That’s important to me.”
Fairness, Focus, and Fun
Flyball may look chaotic to outsiders — four dogs racing, balls flying, handlers shouting — but behind the noise lies precision. For a judge, fairness and focus are everything.
“You have to treat an 18-second team the same way you treat a 14-second team,” Kevin says. “It’s about recognizing everyone’s goals and staying consistent.”
That level of fairness requires intense concentration and a deep knowledge of the rulebook. “You’ve got to stay in the moment,” he adds. “You can’t think about who’s in the ring — just judge what’s happening in front of you.”
It’s a philosophy that has earned Kevin the respect of competitors across divisions. And it’s a mindset he works hard to pass on to the next generation of judges.
Behind the Whistle: What Most Don’t See
Judging isn’t just about standing in the ring — it’s a year-round responsibility.
Kevin and his team of 26 approved judges hold monthly meetings to review new scenarios and rule interpretations. Every event brings unique challenges, so open communication is key.
“Even after all these years, I’ll still go to a tournament and see something new. We talk about it afterward so we’re all on the same page.”
That collaboration keeps consistency strong nationwide. The judging program itself is structured and hands-on — apprentices shadow training judges for multiple weekends, practice measuring dogs accurately, and learn to manage the fast pace and occasional emotional moments that come with competition.
“Communication is huge,” Kevin emphasizes. “You need to stay calm when competitors get heated, explain your calls clearly, and handle those situations with respect.”
The Mental Game: Staying Neutral
Anyone who’s been part of Flyball long enough knows that rivalries are part of the fun — but also part of the challenge. So how does a head judge stay neutral in a sport full of passionate teams and personalities?
“You have to keep your focus on the job,” Kevin says. “You can’t think about who’s in the ring — whether it’s your friends, your rivals, or your own division. You’re there to do one thing: judge fairly.”
That commitment to impartiality — and Kevin’s calm demeanor — have made him a model for aspiring judges.
Lessons from the Ring
Kevin laughs when asked what’s harder to manage: the dogs or the handlers.
“Honestly? Probably the handlers!” he jokes. “Every handler’s got passion — that’s what makes the sport great. But sometimes things get intense, and part of my job is to keep it light and keep everyone moving forward.”
Still, even the most experienced judges aren’t perfect. Kevin admits that mistakes happen — a missed call here, a bobbled glance there.
“You learn not to dwell on it. We’re human. Learn from it, move on, and focus on the next race. If you hang on to one mistake, you’ll probably make another.”
That perspective doesn’t just make him a great judge — it’s solid life advice.
What Keeps Him Coming Back
After two decades, what keeps Kevin excited for each new season?
“The people. The dogs. The energy,” he says. “I love that Friday-night get-together with all the judges — just catching up and thanking each other. Then when Sunday comes and we’re in the final run-offs, the whole building buzzes. Every division, every team — it’s intense but so much fun.”
This year, Kevin has even more reason to smile: his own young dog will be making its first championship appearance.
“He’s been doing great,” Kevin beams. “So yeah, I’m pretty excited about that.”
Embracing Technology in the Sport
Flyball has evolved dramatically in recent years, with new digital systems and timing technology improving both safety and accuracy.
“It’s been a learning curve,” Kevin admits, “but overall it’s been positive. Not having clipboards in the ring has made things safer, and our line judges are getting comfortable with the new setup.”
He’s particularly enthusiastic about live-streaming and real-time results — innovations that let more fans, families, and friends experience the excitement of the Tournament of Champions even from afar.
“It brings people together,” Kevin says. “And that’s what this community is about.”
Standing Tall (With a Little Help from 1-TDC)
After eight- to ten-hour days on his feet, Kevin’s passion comes with a price — sore knees and tired ankles. That’s where 1-TDC enters the story.
“I tried the 1-TDC pain-relief cream a while back,” he says. “After judging all day, it really helps my knees and lower back. Works wonders!”
We’ll make sure the judging crew gets a fresh supply at this year’s championship — because even judges deserve recovery support!
The Heart of Flyball
At the end of our conversation, Kevin summed up what makes Flyball truly special:
“The dogs don’t know if they won or lost. They just want to run. That’s what it’s about — having fun with our dogs and enjoying a sport we love.”
And that’s exactly the spirit you’ll feel at the 1-TDC Flyball Tournament of Champions — fairness, friendship, and a community bound by shared joy for the dogs who give it their all every race. 
About 1-TDC worksSOwell
1-TDC is proud to support the Flyball community. Our dual-action supplement promotes gum and joint health — helping canine athletes recover faster and feel their best both in and out of the ring.
Learn more at www.workssowell.com.
🎥 Watch the full interview with Kevin Hesse here
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