Which aspect of showmanship is vital for a good impression on the judge?

Displaying confidence and poise is essential for making a favorable impression on the judge in a showmanship competition. When a competitor appears confident, it demonstrates their knowledge and control over their animal, as well as their familiarity with showmanship practices. Poise shows that the exhibitor is well-prepared and can handle the pressures of competition. This combination allows the judge to see the exhibitor not only as someone skilled in handling their animal but also as someone who can manage the overall presentation effectively. A calm and poised demeanor can create a positive atmosphere, which may influence a judge’s perception and scoring.

In contrast, being loud and assertive may come off as aggressive and could detract from the overall presentation. Ignoring the judge can signal a lack of respect or awareness of the competition's etiquette, which is detrimental to one's chances. Focusing only on the animal might lead to not engaging with the judge or the audience, missing an opportunity to showcase the exhibitor's skills and knowledge. All of these factors underlie the importance of confidence and poise in making a strong impression in showmanship.