The dog agility community across New York and beyond is mourning the passing of John Nys, a respected competitor, trainer, and judge whose decades-long commitment to canine sports left a lasting mark on handlers, students, and organizations nationwide.
Nys, known for his sharp competitive edge balanced by a generous spirit, passed away recently, leaving behind a profound legacy in the agility world. Friends and colleagues describe him as “a teacher, mentor, and true ambassador of the sport.”
A Life Devoted to Agility Excellence
Based in New York, Nys built his reputation through years of competitive success at regional and national agility trials. He was not only an accomplished handler with numerous titles under his belt but also a sought-after judge whose expertise and fairness elevated competitions across the U.S. and internationally.
“He had an extraordinary way of reading dogs and motivating people,” said a fellow competitor from the Northeast Agility Club. “John wasn’t just about winning — he was about connection, understanding, and teamwork.”
Nys also dedicated much of his time to teaching — running workshops, mentoring new trainers, and advocating for safe, balanced, and positive training techniques. His students often described him as “demanding but deeply encouraging” — someone who expected the best from both handler and dog.
Community Tributes
Since news of his passing broke, tributes have poured in from agility clubs, former students, and organizations including the American Kennel Club (AKC) and USDAA (United States Dog Agility Association). Online forums and social media pages have been flooded with stories of his influence — from helping a first-time handler qualify for Nationals to guiding seasoned trainers through the nuances of international competition.
“John made agility better — for everyone,” wrote one long-time friend. “He raised the bar for how we train, how we compete, and how we treat each other.”
Why His Loss Resonates
The passing of figures like John Nys underscores how deeply intertwined personal mentorship is with the culture of dog sports. Agility is not just competition — it’s community, and Nys embodied that spirit. His blend of precision, empathy, and infectious enthusiasm helped shape a generation of trainers and handlers who now carry his lessons forward.
Funeral details and memorial arrangements are expected to be shared by his family and agility community groups in the coming days.
As one tribute poignantly put it: “John didn’t just teach agility — he taught us how to believe in our dogs and ourselves.”
