PRESENTED BY:

January 3-5, 2025

Tinley Park, IL

Tinley Park Convention Center

A GroomTeam USA Sanctioned Event held in conjunction with ‘The Great American Dog Show’

5th Annual Windy City Grooming Show

The Windy City Grooming Show (p.k.a. Whitman’s Grooming Show) is presented by Groom Factory and is the first GroomTeam USA Sanctioned Event of the year. The show is held in Conjunction with The Great American Dog Show at the Tinley Park Convention Center in Tinley Park, Illinois just outside of Chicago.

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Competition Schedule

Fri, Jan. 3rd – 9AM
Wire Coats

Fri, Jan. 3rd – 2PM
All Other Purebreds

Sat, Jan. 4th – 9AM
Sporting

Sat, Jan. 4th – 2PM
Poodles

Sun, Jan. 5th – 9AM
Freestyle

Sun, Jan. 5th – 2PM
Creative

CONTESTANT Reels by Groom Haüs

Each contestant can request a before/after video Reel from Groom Haüs and will also get access to candid competition photos INCLUDED with entry!

*One complimentary Reel per contestant. Additional Reel edits available for a fee.

ALL THE Details

Prize Breakdown

DIVISION A:
Wire, All Other Purebreds, Sporting, Salon Freestyle, and Poodle Classes

  • 1st Place- $300
  • 2nd Place- $150
  • 3rd Place- $75
  • Best All Around- $500
  • Best In Show- $1,000

DIVISION B:
Wire, All Other Purebreds, Sporting, Salon Freestyle, and Poodle Classes

  • 1st Place- $100
  • 2nd Place- $50
  • 3rd Place- $25
  • Best In Show- $500

EXTREME CREATIVE:

  • Division A: 1st Place- $1,000
  • Division B: 1st Place- $500

SPECIAL AWARDS:
Presented during All Other Purebreds- the “Misty Gieczys Best Kerry Blue Award”
Best First-Timer Award

Division Breakdown

There will be two divisions of competition for each class-

Division A: Open to all competitors. Any competitor who does not meet the qualifications for Division B must compete in Division A.

Division B: Restricted to competitors who have NOT won a Best in Show or Best All-Around title from any division at any show, OR six 1st placements from any show. Conformation dog show handlers, breeders or owners who have shown and finished more than 3 champions in their competing breed, judges, and grooming school instructors are prohibited from competing in Division B.

Division B – Extreme Creative: Restricted to competitors who have not won three Creative 1st placements from any show.

What to Expect

Check-in:
Check in at the Great American Dog Show Registration desk at the entrance of the Tinley Park Convention Center. Tell them you are with the Windy City Grooming Show and they will have a list of names of entrants. Each entrant will get two wristbands- one for themself, and one for an assistant. Any other people who wish to enter the grooming show that is not an entrant or assistant will need to pay the entry fee either beforehand at https://greatamericandogshow.com/ or at the door.

Remember to bring the following:

  • This email (printed or mobile)
  • Valid ID
  • Crate/leash for your dog
  • Shampoo, conditioner, and towels for your dog
  • Table and grooming arm
  • Your grooming equipment including clippers, scissors, grooming loops, brushes and anything else you may need. Flat irons are permitted in the ring, but not hairdryers.
Host Hotel

Even Hotel
18501 Convention Center Dr, Tinley Park, IL 60477

Conveniently connected to the Tinley Park Convention Center, the recently-renovated EVEN Hotel Chicago-Tinley Park Convention Center is the ideal place to stay for the Windy City Grooming Show!

The host site has ample grassy areas for dog walking, beautiful, freshly renovated rooms, and a restaurant within the hotel. Only 30 minutes from Chicago Midway International Airport, 45 minutes from Chicago O’Hare International Airport and 30 minutes from downtown.

Use the booking link below to enjoy special pricing in our hotel block of $119 per night with a one-time non-refundable pet fee of $50.

Central Reservations Phone Number: (708) 444-1100

Book your room here for a discounted rate while rooms are available.

Enter booking Code:  GAD

Facilities

This competition will be held in conjunction with the The Great American Dog Show AKC dog show. Please be respectful of dogs and handlers and be mindful of distracting dogs in the ring.

Bathing- Tubs will be provided, please bring your own shampoo and towels. Dying of dogs is prohibited.
Drying- Tables and two K9 dryers will be provided near the bathing area to dry and prep dogs.
Holding- There will be a holding area provided on the show grounds during the show day. Overnight kenneling is PERMITTED.
Hotel- The host hotel is dog friendly (pet fee may apply). Book your room here for a discounted rate while rooms are available.
Competition Ring- All competitors must provide their own grooming table and arm for competition. Electric will be provided. Flat irons are permitted, hair dryers are not.

Competition Procedures

Check-In:
Check-in begins one hour prior to the contest start and closes 15 mins before the start. Please check in with the contest coordinator to receive your table assignment and number. You must have a before photo taken.

Pre-Judge:
Judges will come around to confirm you have the right class/division and that you know your time frame. They will make note of any issues with the dog: coat missing, sores, etc.

Break:
There will be a MANDATORY BREAK 1 hour into the competition. Dogs must be removed from the grooming area.

End:
At the competition end, clear your table. Keep a comb out for the judge to use to comb through your groom. Light use of styling spray is allowed to keep coat in place and free of static. Extensive spraying and reshaping is prohibited. Stack your dog until the judge is finished evaluating the class. Every competitor must take an after photo once they have been evaluated by the judge.

Judging

Judges:
Irina “Pina” Pinkusevich and Colin Taylor will be Co-Judging Division A & B classes including Wire Coat, All Other Purebred, Sporting, Freestyle, and Poodle. The judges will evaluate grooms based on technical skill, overall balance, adherence to breed profile, level of difficulty, and overall change made in the groom.

 

Extreme Creative Judging:
xxx will be judging Division A & B in the Extreme Creative competition. Judge will evaluate grooms based on the following:

  • Originality of design and theme being easily recognizable
  • Precision of clipper, scissor and balance
  • Overall color application, depth of color, separation of color and blending
  • Color application prior to and during competition
  • Overall amount of work completed during contest time frame
  • Very Minimum use of glued on accessories- will be asked to show judge during pre-judge what will be glued on
Competition Rules & Requirements

COAT GROWTH:
Dogs should have 6 weeks of coat growth. It is understood that some dogs grow at different rates and may require more or less growth time. Enough coat should be present to show a distinct change in appearance. In hand strip dogs, rolling of the coat is permitted. It is to be expected that a less drastic change will be evident but a significant amount of coat should be removed.

DOG QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:

  • Dogs should be 1-10 years of age and in general good health, free of disease and parasites.
  • Dogs should show no signs of aggression or nervousness.
  • No dog should be left unattended on the table or bathing area at any time.
  • Dogs must be leashed or crated when not competing.

ACCEPTABLE STYLES:

  • With the exception of Freestyle and Extreme Creative, all dogs should be groomed in breed standard styles with the exception of the poodle that may be groomed in show trim, modern, or German. Terriers and sporting dogs in Division B may be clippered with breed standard profile still the goal with the clippered groom.
  • The use of products such as chalk and hairspray are acceptable if needed to achieve breed profile.
  • Sanitary, paw pads, nails, and ear cleaning should be completed before class start.
  • Chalking of terrier legs is permitted before class start.
  • Poodles: Banding of show top knots is permitted. The bubble cannot be pulled and no hairspray may be applied. Feet must be shaved for the trim to be permissible. Feet may be clippered before the ring. No additional time will be given if they are done during the competition. The face must be shaved during the competition time frame. A small mustache or goatee is permitted.

EXTREME CREATIVE:

In-ring Grooming

  • Creative sculpting, color application, character creation and design
  • Groomers demonstrating quality grooming techniques utilizing safe application of color, accessories, and contestant costumes and presentations.
  • Enough coat should be present to show a distinct change in appearance.
  • All products, decorative objects, coat coloring and applications must be safe for the dog and stylist.
  • Glues should be non-toxic and water-soluble

Not Allowed

  • Lifting pet’s natural color
  • Use of duct tape, carpet tape, super glue
  • No other live animals are permitted for use as props
  • Large or heavy objects placed on the pet
  • Pre-banding
  • Spraying or use of any product after scissors down on pet

Final Presentation

  • Not to exceed 6’x6′ space
  • Maximum of 2 assistants may enter the arena for prop set up during the 10 minutes following scissors down
  • Up to three persons may assist in the presentation
  • Contestants have a maximum of two minutes for their presentation
  • Presentation may engage the audience
  • Lights cannot be dimmed during performance
  • Smoke, confetti, streamers or explosive items are strictly prohibited

TIME ALLOTTED:
Competitors will have 2 hours to complete their groom with the exception of the Poodle class and extra large breeds in the Wire and All Other Purebred class (ie: Airedale terrier, Bouvier. etc) which will receive 2.25 hours. *Extreme Creative will have 3 hours.

Poodles
The poodle class will be divided as follows:

  • Up to 11” – 1.5 hours
  • Over 11” and up to and including 17” – 1.75 hours
  • Over 17” and up to and including 23” – 2 hours
  • Over 23” – 2.25

If competing with a breed that is not listed as receiving additional time, please contact the contest coordinator if you believe more time should be given.

Freestyle
The freestyle class will be judged separately from the previous classes. The class is open to all breeds and mixes provided they are not trimmed to breed standard. The time allotted will be as follows:

  • Up to 11” – 1.5 hours
  • Over 11” and up to and including 17” – 1.75 hours
  • Over 17” and up to and including 23” – 2 hours
  • Over 23” – 2.25
Policies

Prohibited in Ring

  • Phones, radios, and earbuds
  • Standing on chairs or tables
  • Coaching
  • Smoking
  • Use of visual or written aids

Equipment

  • All grooming equipment must be supplied by the competitor including: grooming loops, clippers, scissors, brushes, etc.
  • Grooming table will NOT be provided. Competitor must bring their own
  • Electric will be provided
  • The use of flat irons is permitted in the ring, but not hairdryers

Conduct

  • Groomers must present themselves in a professional manner to reflect great pride in the industry
  • No open-toed shoes. Grooming smocks/aprons are recommended
  • Maintain a safe styling station
  • Exhibit the proper application of technical skills
  • Show good sportsmanship
  • Exhibit safe handling techniques
  • Carry this conduct outside the ring into the show grounds and hotel

Disqualifications:

  • The contestant will get a warning or possible DQ for failing to follow show rules
  • It is the judge’s discretion if a cut, nick, or abrasion is a DQ
  • Clarification of any issues on the day of the show will be handled by the judge and show committee

***By signing up for the Windy City Grooming Show competition, this indicates that you have read, understand, and agree to adhere to rules of the contest and GroomTeam USA INC Code of Conduct.

AKC Master Groomer Evaluation

All Competitors are eligible for AKC Master Groomer Evaluation. For more information on this program, visit: www.akc.org/groomer-hub

The Misty Gieczy’s Best Kerry Blue Award

Presented during the All Other Purebreds class, the Misty Gieczys’ Best Kerry Blue Award is a special recognition for outstanding Kerry Blue Terrier grooming. Each year, the winner’s name is added to the trophy much like the Stanley Cup, creating a growing list of past honorees. It has become a symbol of excellence for Kerry Blue Terrier groomers and a cherished part of the Windy City Grooming Show.

BEST FIRST-TIMER & BEST IN SHOW

Sponsored by:

Serenity Pet Spa is proud to sponsor the Best First Timer Award at this year’s grooming contests! Each class winner will receive a one-hour coaching session with Lis Johnston, providing valuable, personalized insights to help them grow as competitive groomers.

The Best in Show winner will receive an exclusive 5-pack of virtual coaching sessions or a one-day in-person training with Lis, as well as full access to her online grooming community for ongoing support and the opportunity to ask questions directly. This sponsorship is dedicated to supporting emerging talent and helping new groomers take their skills to the next level.

Meet the Judges

Division A

Wire: Scott Wasserman
AOPB: Scott Wasserman
Sporting: Jody Paquette
Poodle: Kelly Knight
Freestyle: Misty Gieczys
Extreme Creative: Misty Gieczys
Best In Show: Pina

Division B

Wire: Heather Roozee
AOPB: Heather Roozee
Sporting: Heather Roozee
Poodle: Heather Roozee
Freestyle: Deb Compton
Extreme Creative: Misty Gieczys
Best In Show: Pina

Irina Pinkusevich

Irina “Pina” Pinkusevich realized her passion as a Pet Stylist while working part-time as a bather after immigrating from Ukraine in 1989. Pina was a member of GroomTeam USA from 2008 through 2013 and competed in the World Championships for the United States in 2009, 2011, and 2013 helping the U.S. team bring home a Silver & two Golds. Along with being a world-renowned groomer, Pina is also a national & international judge, instructor, and speaker. In 2021, she launched her company Niira to bring high quality affordable grooming tools to the industry.

Scott Wasserman

Scott Wasserman, ISCC PDS, MPS, Meritus, and Certifier, is a leading expert in hand stripping and fondly known as “Mr. Terrier.” Since 1992, he has earned top awards, including two Best Pet Stylist in Show titles at the U.S. Pet Pro Classic, the Intergroom International Groomer of the Year, and a spot on GroomTeam USA. An international judge, Scott has traveled globally, including to England, Italy, Japan, and Australia, judging at major events. Recognized with multiple Cardinal Crystal Achievement nominations, he won Judge of the Year in 2014. Scott also breeds Kerry Blue Terriers under the Kiluntin prefix.

Deb Compton

Deb Compton is the Regional Grooming Team Lead for Pet Supplies Plus franchises in Madison, WI, Freeport, IL, and Austin, MN, managing salon operations, staffing, and training. A grooming expert for dog shows, photography, and TV, she showcases Bedlington Terriers and Miniature Poodles in AKC events. Known for her creative techniques like coat carving and unique scissoring, Deb also consults on product development and marketing for grooming businesses and hosts seminars on competitive grooming. Since 2018, she has taught scissoring and creative grooming internationally and was a top 5 contestant on ABC’s Pooch Perfect.

Heather Roozee

Heather Roozee, a former top GroomTeam USA member with over 24 years of grooming experience, is renowned for her expertise with Airedale Terriers and success across various breeds. She earned numerous Best Groomed Dog in Show titles, including wins at Hershey and Intergroom, and was ranked the #1 U.S. groomer in the Handstrip Class in 2017 before retiring from competition in 2018. As the owner of a grooming salon in DeKalb, IL, for 22 years, Heather now teaches hands-on seminars nationwide and online. She has also finished two Grand Champion Airedales, including Hudson, who won both National Specialties and an All Breed Best in Show in 2023.

Misty Gieczys

Misty, an IGA Certified Master Groomer, Pettech instructor, and owner of Designer Paws Salon in Columbus, Ohio, has excelled in grooming since 2005, achieving multiple Best in Show awards and earning international acclaim with the US Gold Winning Model Dog Team in Taiwan. Recognized with the Cardinal Crystal Grooming Achievement Award for her philanthropic work, Misty is also a nominee for Barkleigh Honors and IJA Creative Groomer awards. Now a Business Consultant and Grooming Judge, she remains influential in the industry. Passionate about Kerry Blue Terriers, Misty serves on the board of the Kerry Blue Terrier Club of Northern Ohio, actively competing and breeding for performance and conformation.

Kelly Knight

Kelly Knight, owner of BARK Luxury Pet Resort and Goin’ To The Dogs, brings over 25 years of expertise to the pet industry. A National Certified Master Groomer and former GroomTeam USA member, Kelly is celebrated for her Abstract Creative Runway wins. Her current passion is showing standard poodles, with over 30 champions so far. Kelly has also earned multiple mini and toy poodles their championships along the way.

Jody Paquette

Jody Paquette, a second-generation dog handler, grew up with parents Wendy and Richard Paquette, world-renowned Shih Tzu breeders and respected All Breed Judges. Excelling from a young age, Jody became Canada’s Top Junior Handler twice and represented her country at the Crufts dog show. As a professional handler, she has shown dogs across all seven groups and brings extensive expertise in various coat types. A skilled educator and successful breeder, Jody’s Shih Tzu “Panda” won Group 1st at Westminster, and she has bred top-winning Whippets and Springer Spaniels.

Thank You To Our Sponsors

Register to Compete

Sign up for the Windy City Grooming Show dog grooming competition by clicking the button below. Unlike other shows, there is no cap on entry! 

GET IN TOUCH

If you have questions about the competition, are interested in sponsoring, or have any other inquiries, please fill out the form below.