If you enter a plant in a display at an AOS show and the judges don't pull it for judging, it is considered "screened" and can't be considered for an AOS award on that same blooming. SO, if you have a plant in a show that you want judged, poke one of the judges and ask them what they think. If you want to learn about the process, let them know. If you're not sure, ask them for their honest opinion. Also, you can often carry a plant in to AOS judging that (in our region- Mid-America) is usually Saturday morning after ribbon judging. Let the judging chair know you want it entered for AOS judging and they'll see that it happens.
Yes, there's always room for improvement. Once one breeding line gets tapped out, improvement is the encouragement to try new things. Shoot, even the species (which in reality become hybrids over time) get better with each generation- look at Jason's Phrag. besseae 'Rob's Choice' ! Heck if that's the best besseae that will ever be, the next goal is cultural awards. Imagine that plant with ten spikes!
-Ernie