Why Livestock Judging?

Livestock Judging offers many benefits to individuals who participate on the team here at Allen Community College.  If a student has an interest in breeding, raising, or showing livestock; then it is important to develop those skills required to visually evaluate livestock and understand performance records.  Not only does livestock judging teach evaluation, but it also builds confidence and stimulates ones mind.  Equally important, this experience helps refine the decision making process through making logical, rational decisions based on information gathered and help improve oral communication and observation skills.  Being involved on the livestock judging team also helps to build self-discipline and along with improving leadership skills essential for one to be successful in future careers.  It also gives the team members the opportunity to meet people with the same interests and goals as themselves.  Students have the opportunity to meet prominent livestock breeders, view their facilities and make acquaintances that will often last a lifetime.  Finally, team members will develop a competitive attitude and edge, that will make them more valuable, and marketable upon graduation.

What is Involved?

Competing on the Livestock team here at ACCC allows students the opportunity to travel around the country and compete at several national contests.  ACCC travels to the American Royal in Kansas City, the NAILE in Louisville, Kentucky; the National Western in Denver, Colorado; the Ft. Worth Stock Show, the San Antonio Livestock Show, and the Houston Livestock Show.  Plus we travel to several other contests through out the year.  ACCC is fortunate to have all team members’ expenses covered while on trips. 

ACCC’s livestock judging program is very intense in its teaching of livestock selection and its application to the livestock industry.  While competition is important to the learning process of judging team members it is not the single component of their training.  Many hours are spent evaluating livestock at some of the premier operations in Kansas and across the nation.

Are There Scholarships Available?

Livestock Judging Scholarships are available to all team members.  The scholarship pays for tuition and book rental.  This is a potential value of $1800 per year.  In addition, students with a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or better are eligible for up to an additional $500 per semester.

For more information about Livestock Judging at ACCC contact:
Jeff Nemecek, Livestock Judging Coach and Farm Manager
620-365-5116 ext. 279, or nemecek@allencc.ed