30-yard Pin Soft Hackle - Breaking Tradition

I am hoping to spark some conversation in the comments section (below) or my Facebook page (Salmon Steelhead and Trout Fly Tying) with this pattern, et al. Why?  I recently had a fascinating conservation (debate) with a couple of folks on the ever changing evolution of fly patterns.   The topic eventually led to the adding, subtracting and substituting of materials from original patterns and calling them "new" or "improved" patterns.  Then we touch upon the classifications of different patterns.  A whole can of worms immediately opened upon presenting this fly!  

At first glance, the reader may think the hackle on this fly is hen, starling, crow, etc.  Quite the opposite.  The hackle on this pattern are rabbit guard hairs.  The biggest controversy- the shuck! So I pose the question...  Is this pattern classified as "soft hackle?"

Looking forward to reading the comments!

Materials

Hook:  TMC 2499SPBL or Daiichi 1150, sizes 10-16
Thread:  UTC 70, chartreuse
Tail/shuck:  Emerger Sparkle Yarn, cream
Body:  Thread
Thorax:  Ice Dubbing, chartreuse
Hackle:  Rabbit guard hairs taking from a zonker strip or pelt, black

Step 1:

Secure hook in vise.  Start thread one eye length behind the eye.

Step 2:

Select 4 to 6 strands of Sparkle Emerger Yarn and double it to form a loop.  The theory behind the looped shuck is to provide a more natural, bubble-like appearance.

Step 2a:

With flat, even wraps advance thread rearward to position shown and return to thorax area.

Step 3: 

Dub a ball of Ice Dubbing.

Step 3a:

Pick out dubbing.  Notice the "clean" area in front of the thorax?

Step 4:

Create a dubbing loop by splitting the thread.  Apply a light coat of wax.

Step 4:

The guard hairs are easily separated by lifted the tips of hair straight up with your thumb and index finger 90-degrees from the pelt and the clipping close to the hide.  Maintain "tip" pressure and remove under fur.

Insert the tips of guard hairs to a length slightly past the bend of the hook.  Close loop by removing spinning tool while maintaining firm pressure on the thread.  Cut the butt ends as close as possible to the thread (loop).  While still maintaining thread pressure, use opposite hand to spin the bobbin. Slowly release finger pressure from thread.  The hairs should spike as pictured below.

Step 5:

Moisten fingers and draw guard hair rearwards.  Make two or three wraps and secure.  Whip finish. Apply head cement.

Enjoy!