This is the third and last part of a blog post series called “Hoopers in the Netherlands”. Blog posts are based on an interview with Lisa Nijhof and Veronique De Boer-Wildeboer. Lisa is hoopers trainer, judge and coach and Veronique is hoopers trainer and coach. Read more on Lisa and Veronique here.

In the final part of our conversation with Lisa and Veronique, we take a look at the Dutch hoopers scene and then ahead to the future of hoopers. They will share their hopes for the hoopers and why inclusivity and joy should remain at its heart.

Read other parts:

Hoopers in Netherlands

Since its introduction in 2014, hoopers has grown rapidly in the Netherlands. At those days hoopers were totally different from today: obstacles were very close to each other and the dog-handling area was like three meters away.

Almost every club now offers the sport in some form, with approaches ranging from high-level competition training to programs focused on fun and accessibility. The quality of training and competitions continues to improve as more clubs refine their methods and raise their standards. There is still a need for more widespread, modern education for hoopers trainers similar to what exists in agility, but progress is being made.

Here is Veronique with her dogs a Border Collie Lola and a Belgian Malinois Mila.

Three styles to compete

Lisa estimates that there might be approximately 300 teams competing in the Netherlands currently. There are three associations organizing competitions and they all have their own rules and regulations. Different organisations make it possible to compete with different kinds of dogs as there are styles for different needs.

NADAC HOOPERS

Nadac is the original and has two styles: technical and speed. In technical courses, distances between obstacles are small and the handling area is close. Speed courses are built with more distance, have more fluent lines and they are easier for faster dogs to run. In Nadac they use dog-handling areas.

Distance Just For Dogs

This came second. This organization wanted bigger distances between the obstacles compared to Nadac. In these competitions they give points depending on where the handler is. There are three different lines and a dog-handling area, where you get most points. So it is possible to run with your dog or stay in the dog-handling area.

The Dutch Kennel Club

It is the newest one and its regulations are based on international regulations. There are three classes H1-H3. The highest (H3) one is targeted to be close to big international courses.

Popularity between styles (highest = most popular)

Distance
Nadac Speed
Nadac Technical
The Dutch Kennel Club

While Lisa was judging in Finland, her dogs were observing from home.

A call for unity and development

As hoopers continues to grow internationally, there is a clear need for more unity and consistency across countries. Standardized rules, judging criteria and course design would make it easier for teams to train and compete internationally while fostering a sense of shared community. At the same time, preserving the sport’s accessibility and inclusivity for all breeds and handler types remains essential. A unified approach would support both high-level competition and the recreational enjoyment that makes hoopers so appealing.

“I would like to see hoopers getting bigger and more well known globally, with better standardization of rules, judging and course design. This would make international competitions more consistent and open doors for learning from each other.” Lisa

Dog welfare and inclusivity

As hoopers evolves, maintaining a strong focus on dog welfare is essential. Course designs must prioritize safe lines and obstacle placement to prevent injuries, especially for faster dogs. This includes avoiding tight turns at high speed and ensuring appropriate distances between obstacles. Equally important is keeping the sport inclusive, welcoming dogs of all breeds and handlers of all skill levels. This balance of safety and accessibility is what makes hoopers a sport that can be enjoyed by a diverse community.

Inclusivity is another core value. Lisa continues, “One of the beautiful things about hoopers is seeing all breeds competing together. It needs to stay that way, so everyone feels welcome.”

Inspiring the next generation

The growth of hoopers around the world is fueled by the enthusiasm and dedication of new handlers, trainers and judges. Sharing knowledge across borders and learning from different approaches help the sport evolve in a positive direction. Supporting beginners while continuing to challenge advanced teams ensures that hoopers remains a sport where everyone can progress and enjoy success. Encouraging a culture of openness, collaboration and joy will inspire the next generation to carry hoopers forward with energy and passion.

“It’s wonderful to see the dedication and openness to learning. That mindset is what will keep hoopers growing and evolving in the right way.” Veronique

In Netherlands during winter season hoopers can be trained indoors on sand.

A final message

For hoopers enthusiasts everywhere, Lisa offers this encouragement: “Your focus on skills, connection, joy and teamwork truly reflects the spirit of hoopers. Trust the process and remember this is a shared journey with your best friend. Enjoy every moment on the field and off.”

Veronique adds warmly, “Have fun together and just enjoy. That’s what matters most.”

This was the last part of series “Hoopers in the Netherlands” with Lisa and Veronique. You can read previous parts:

PART 1: Building Skills and Connection: Dutch Perspectives on Hoopers Training
PART 2: Essential Skills in Hoopers: Insights from Dutch Trainers and a Judge

Veronique and Lisa visited Finland in May in WHOC qualifications.

Happy Hoopers - for hoopers handlers and coaches

Happy Hoopers is a site designed for hoopers enthusiasts and coaches. Here you’ll find information about the sport, ideas to inspire your training, and insights that go a little beyond hoopers itself. All with the goal of helping you and your dog enjoy the journey together.

The site was founded by Tiina Wikström, a hoopers instructor, coach trainer, and mental performance coach. Tiina is passionate about supporting handlers and coaches in creating positive, motivating, and enjoyable training experiences for both dogs and humans.

Whether you’re just starting your hoopers adventure or you’re an experienced trainer looking for fresh perspectives, Happy Hoopers is here to spark your creativity and keep your sessions fun and purposeful.

Learn more: www.happyhoopers.fi

The future of hoopers: unity, growth and joy