Air Retrieve
Explosive power without structure is unstable. In Air Retrieve, we build control first so performance becomes inevitable.
Air Retrieve applies the same foundational principles used throughout the Apex Academy, emphasizing commitment, line, timing, and clarity from the moment the dog leaves the surface. The discipline is built to reinforce precision and confidence through repeatable structure rather than urgency or force.
By holding the retrieve presentation constant, Air Retrieve places greater emphasis on an established distance foundation and deliberate progression. This allows teams to refine understanding and execution while preserving the integrity of the Wasatch system and its commitment to safe, repeatable performance.
What The Discipline Is
Air Retrieve is a structured water-based discipline focused on developing reliable aerial commitment through clarity, consistency, and intentional progression. The work emphasizes precision and control by maintaining defined criteria, allowing teams to build confidence and understanding without reliance on urgency or force.
With the retrieve point held constant, Air Retrieve places emphasis on a solid distance foundation and intentional progression. This structure allows dogs to engage the work with clarity and confidence, reinforcing precision while maintaining the safety, consistency, and repeatability required within the Wasatch system.
Builds reliable aerial commitment through clear criteria and consistent execution
Reinforces distance, confidence, and precision without relying on impulsive effort
Supports consistent execution through defined criteria and progression
Who This Is For
Air Retrieve is a more advanced water discipline designed for teams looking to refine aerial commitment and precision within a controlled environment. It is best suited for dogs that already demonstrate a solid distance foundation and are ready to layer additional complexity with clarity and intention.
For some teams, Air Retrieve becomes a focused progression within the Apex Academy, building directly on distance foundations developed through Dock Diving. For others, it serves as a complementary discipline that reinforces precision, confidence, and consistency within the same framework. In all cases, pacing remains aligned to the individual dog and team, ensuring progress is built deliberately rather than rushed.
Program Structure
Air Retrieve is currently delivered in a structured group format, allowing sessions to operate efficiently while maintaining clear criteria and consistent execution. This format supports safe operation and effective flow without compromising the integrity of the Wasatch system.
Regardless of delivery format, progression remains individual. Each dog and team advances at an appropriate pace based on readiness and understanding, ensuring development is deliberate, consistent, and aligned with the Apex Academy framework.
Sessions follow defined criteria and consistent expectations
Progression is intentional and earned rather than accelerated
Structure supports clarity, safety, and repeatable execution
Standards remain consistent across dogs, teams, and sessions
Program Pricing
Air Retrieve is offered through scheduled group classes designed to support deliberate progression within a controlled training environment. This format provides the structure necessary to develop clarity, confidence, and reliable execution while allowing each team to progress intentionally through the discipline.
Pricing is listed for clarity and planning purposes.
Five-Week Air Retrieve Group Classes - $250
Air Retrieve Within The Wasatch System
Air Retrieve exists within the Apex Academy as a precision discipline developed using the same foundational principles that govern all Wasatch performance work. It builds on established distance foundations while reinforcing clarity, commitment, and reliable execution in the water.
Air Retrieve within the Apex Academy is guided by the same foundational principles that shape all Wasatch training: structure, engagement, and intentional development. This ensures skills are built sustainably while remaining adaptable across dogs, handlers, and long-term goals.
Begin Your Ascent
Every program at Wasatch is built on the same foundation: clarity, structure, and intentional progression. The intake process ensures training begins at the correct starting point for each dog and team.
This allows training to remain stable, effective, and aligned with the standards that support long-term development across all disciplines.