The Regional Board

NELLI RACSKO

Club: Danubius Club, Pasadena, CA

Email: intoigp@gmail.com

Term: Serving since 2021, re-elected for 2025-2027

Nelli Racsko is honored to continue serving as Southwest Regional Director, bringing decades of experience in IGP training, breeding, and showing German Shepherds. She is passionate about protecting the breed’s heritage, supporting member clubs, and fostering growth within the region.

In her role, she is committed to upholding the organization’s objectives, ensuring the successful execution of regional events, and providing guidance to clubs and members. She takes pride in maintaining clear communication, promptly handling event authorizations, and promoting excellence and sportsmanship.

Nelli looks forward to working alongside fellow board members and clubs to strengthen the Southwest Region and build a thriving community of working dog enthusiasts.

ERIN EASTER

Club: Sandstorm Schutzhund Club, Phoenix, AZ

Email: easterx3@gmail.com

Term: 2025-2027

As the Assistant Regional Director of the Southwestern Region for the United Schutzhund Clubs of America, Erin plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the region.  His primary responsibilities include supporting the Regional Director, serving as a liaison between the Board of Directors and regional members, and actively promoting the IGP sport.

Erin actively utilizes social media to increase the region’s visibility and attract greater engagement in the sport. He is dedicated to developing high-quality training programs, strengthening the regional community, and expanding participation in IGP. Through his efforts, he aims to enhance the success and reputation of the Southwest Region.

LISA YAUCHZEE

Fontana, CA / Prescott, AZ

Email: l.yauchzee@gmail.com

Term: 2025-2027

Lisa has over 25 years of experience as an educator and an extensive background in dog sports. Her expertise in organization, communication, and administration has been strengthened by serving on various committees, boards, and panels. As Regional Secretary, Lisa is responsible for facilitating communication within the region, documenting meeting minutes, and ensuring important information is distributed effectively. She will also oversee the development of a structured training program for trial secretaries and maintain records of qualified individuals for each club. Lisa is dedicated to supporting the region’s administrative efficiency and fostering growth in the sport.

PETER MEDINA

Club: Golden State Schutzhund Club, Riverside, CA

Email: trainingk9@hotmail.com

Term: 2025-2027

With over 35 years of experience in breeding and training German Shepherds, Pete Medina is dedicated to preserving the breed’s working heritage. As Regional Breed Warden, he assists clubs in hosting the Regional Conformation Championship and Breed Survey, serves as Regional Show Chairperson, and represents the region at the USCA Sieger Show.

Pete has hosted numerous Regional Shows, Breed Surveys, IGP Trials, and Workshops and is committed to maintaining the German SV Standard. He is focused on expanding regional show events, with a goal of hosting at least two per year.

With strong ties to both the working and show communities, Pete aims to bridge the gap between them and support the continued growth of the Southwest Region.

RENNE FOSTER

Club: East Valley Working Dog Club, Prescott, AZ

Email: azrenne@gmail.com

Term: 2025-2027

Renne is honored to serve as Southwest Regional Treasurer, bringing 24 years of experience as a Realtor with a strong background in business, financial management, and budgeting. Dedicated to ensuring financial transparency and accuracy, Renne is committed to maintaining the region’s financial health while supporting its growth.

Although newer to the sport, Renne’s passion for working dogs and dedication to the community have been shaped through mentorship from respected regional members. With an open-minded and collaborative approach to problem-solving, Renne looks forward to contributing to the success and unity of the Southwest Region.

CHRISTIAN GOMEZ

Club: Ground Zero Schutzhund Club, Chino, CA

Email: cgdogsport@gmail.com

Term: 2025-2027

Christian Gomez brings years of experience as a competitor, coach, and mentor in the IGP community. He is dedicated to education, skill development, and fostering collaboration among handlers, helpers, and clubs throughout the region.

As Regional Training Director, Christian is committed to:

• Supporting Clubs and Handlers – Providing guidance to strengthen training programs and competition readiness.

• Fostering Education and Growth – Organizing workshops, seminars, and training camps to enhance training standards.

• Building Community – Encouraging teamwork and cooperation among clubs and members.

• Ensuring Training Standards – Promoting safe and effective training practices while working with the National Helper Committee.

• Developing Youth Programs – Assisting in youth training initiatives at both local and national levels.

Christian looks forward to helping the Southwest Region continue to grow and thrive in the sport of IGP.