You just mirrored my 4-H story, only I'm poultry superintendent.
Yes pyncheons are ABA recognized, Mille Fleur plumage is the sole variety. Seramas give you a few options anyway. I'm guessing an approved variety could be found by posing a plea on the CA north thread.
We are a small poultry division up here and the bird used for showmanship is judged in conformation also while at the fair. Any bird can be used for showmanship since it is more centered on the kids knowledge than the perfection of their bird. Up here the judge shuffles the birds to test their overall knowledge, I tease my daughter about showing a rubber chicken.
I know nothing of the Puncheon's character, maybe someone will chime in. If they fly off the table that IS a dq! Working with his bird of choice and developing trust is the biggest hurdle. I'm sure he will do great!
Mariah has done showmanship with an OEGB, Brahma bantam and a dutch bantam. They didn't always behave the way she wanted them to but by calmly dealing with scattering the shavings all over the table or being terrified to walk by the judges clip she has done well.