Our community has another reason to celebrate as Stockton University's K-9 team brought home a national championship in spectacular fashion. Police Chief Tracy Stuart and her 10-year-old golden retriever partner, Freya, captured the explosives detection division title at the United States Police Canine Association's 2026 National Detector Dog Trials, held right here at Harrah's Atlantic City.
The achievement was nothing short of remarkable — Stuart and Freya posted a perfect score to claim the national crown, competing against more than 100 law enforcement agencies from across the country, including teams from as far away as Texas and Oregon.
"It doesn't quite feel real, to be honest," Stuart said after the victory. "Dreams do come true. It's beautiful to really have that reinforcement of the fact that preparation really does pay off."
This national title holds special significance for several reasons. Not only did Stockton University host the prestigious trials, but the win may represent the final national competition for Freya, who at 10 years old is approaching retirement age for working dogs. The pair previously won their first national championship together in 2022 at trials held in Georgia.
The decision to hold the competition at Harrah's Atlantic City came after logistical considerations. Stockton also hosted the 2018 competition on campus, but with classes still in session this year, organizers moved the event to the casino venue. The change allowed the university to showcase both its commitment to public safety and highlight Atlantic City, where Stockton maintains a campus presence.
"It was great to have the ability to showcase Stockton and the great city of Atlantic City, where Stockton also has a campus," Stuart explained. "I think the university endeavors to support worthwhile causes, and I like to know that they are acknowledging the importance of resources that provide safety and security, not just for our university population, which is paramount, but also for the community at large. We want the public to know that safety is important to the university."
Stuart's success at the national level extends beyond her partnership with Freya. She previously won national titles with her former K-9 partner Hemi, a chocolate lab, in both 2018 and 2019. Hemi retired in 2020 and passed away in 2023, making the continued excellence with Freya a testament to Stuart's exceptional training skills and dedication to the craft.
While Stockton University has built a reputation for competitive programs in basketball, volleyball, rowing, and esports, the K-9 team's national championship adds another distinguished chapter to the institution's record of achievement. The victory demonstrates that excellence at Stockton extends far beyond traditional athletics, encompassing the critical work of campus safety and security.
For our community, this championship represents more than just a trophy. It's a reminder that the professionals working to keep our campuses and neighborhoods safe are among the best in the nation, and that their dedication to training and preparation makes a real difference in protecting the people who live, work, and study here.
