Pictured is the Whitko FFA Livestock Judging Team of Anna Sickafoose, Lillie Sickafoose, Carle Sroufe and Kohen Schipper as members receive their award, alongside their coach, Roger Carr. Photo provided.

By Madison Hart
InkFreeNews

SOUTH WHITLEY — The Whitko FFA Livestock Judging Team recently achieved an impressive second-place national ranking at the 97th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis on Oct. 26-27. Team members Kohen Schipper, Anna Sickafoose, Lillie Sickafoose and Carle Sroufe, coached by Cari Juillerat and Roger Carr, reflected on their journey to becoming one of the nation’s top teams in livestock evaluation.

The National FFA Livestock Career Development Event challenges participants to assess and evaluate livestock, including beef, sheep, swine and goats. Teams compete in various components, such as eight evaluation classes, oral placement reasons for four classes, a written exam on livestock production and a team activity focusing on reproductive and marketing information. Teams must succeed at both local and state levels to earn the honor of competing nationally.

This event helps students develop the ability to make accurate and logical observations of livestock, determine desirable traits for marketing and breeding and select animals that meet consumer demands while ensuring increased economic returns for producers. Beyond livestock evaluation, students learn valuable skills in communication, data interpretation and teamwork — qualities that will serve them in future careers.

Preparation and Dedication

Reflecting on the team’s preparation, Schipper shared, “Before a competition, I work with my team to practice and refine our skills while discussing classes and reasons. I also prioritize a good night’s sleep to ensure I’m well-rested and ready to perform at my best. This combination of preparation and rest helps me feel confident and focused.”

Sroufe echoed the importance of preparation: “We had practice leading up to the competition working on just seeing stock and nailing down reasons. Then, the three days before the competition, we went out and actually saw livestock and talked through them. It’s just good to get in the swing of things before you actually have to compete, so we went to a number of different places to see all species of livestock, which I thought was very helpful.”

Memorable Highlights

While the competition was intense, the students found moments of gratitude and camaraderie throughout the experience.

“I think the highlight of my contest was actually in the middle of one of the rounds judging, just looking around and realizing we actually made it here,” said Sroufe. “It was a really pivotal moment in my contest because I had so much gratitude to everyone that had got me to that very spot.”

Schipper shared similar sentiments: “My highlight was spending quality time with my teammates, preparing and hanging out together for the last time as a full team. It’s a special moment of camaraderie and bonding before the big event.”

“My favorite part of the contest is being able to compete alongside my teammates,” Lillie Sickafoose agreed.

Advice for Future Competitors

The Whitko team also offered insights for students aspiring to compete in livestock judging.

“The advice I would give to other students is to trust in yourself and have confidence in your abilities. Also, place your faith in your coaches and teammates, and remember to rely on each other for support and strength throughout the process,” said Schipper.

“Surround yourself with people that want you to succeed,” added Lillie.

Sroufe emphasized the importance of consistency under pressure: “Once you find something that works for you, stick with it. Obviously, it’s always good to grow and evolve in your skill set, but in a pressure environment of a contest, you have to go back to the basics and what you know works.”

Building Skills for the Future

The National FFA Livestock CDE not only celebrates the ability to evaluate livestock but also cultivates skills that translate to other career opportunities. Students gain valuable experience in decision-making, teamwork and communication, preparing them for leadership roles in agriculture and beyond.

As the Whitko FFA team looks back on their journey, their reflections offer inspiration to others pursuing excellence in FFA and livestock evaluation. With gratitude, hard work and teamwork, these students have set a high standard for future competitors.

Shown is the Whitko FFA Livestock Judging Team, from left, coach Roger Carr, Kohen Schipper, Lillie Sickafoose, Anna Sickafoose, Carle Sroufe and coach Cari Juillerat. Photo provided.