2014 All-American Jr. Breeder Winners

This year four individuals were recognized for their efforts in conveying their knowledge of performance records, EPD’s and selection tools to improve their cow herd.  After taking a written test based on breed knowledge, genetics, and performance data collection and evaluation, finalists were interviewed to determine how well they apply that knowledge to their own herd.

Each winner receives 1100 dollars to be used for purchasing Shorthorn cattle to improve their herd.  The winners were announced at the Shorthorn Banquet at the National Junior Shorthorn Show in Louisville, Kentucky.

This year three breeders received the title of All-American Junior Breeder. Coty Bell from Arkansas showed progress in understanding how EPD’s apply to his herd and reaching his target market.  Tyler Pierson from Minnesota received his second All American Breeder award this year by setting an example for other members demonstrating how understanding of performance data can improve your herd and the Shorthorn breed.

Sarah Moore is a legacy Shorthorn Breeder who uses her knowledge of sire selection to show the many different roles

Shorthorns can play in the beef industry.  This is also Sarah’s second year receiving the All-American title.

The “Unanimous Selection” All American breeder this year was rewarded to Zach Knutson.  Zach demonstrates clear goals for the future of his herd and has worked very hard in making them a reality.  This past year his own school cafeteria was serving beef from his herd.  Congratulations to all the All American Junior Breeders this year.

 

2013 All-American Jr. Breeder Winners

 

In 2013, two winners were announced during the banquet at the Junior National Show in Des Moines, Iowa. Sarah Moore of Ill., received $1,300 and the title of All-American Junior Breeder. Tyler Pierson from Minn., was selected by the panel of judges at the Unanimous Selection All-American Junior Breeder and received $1,750. Each year, the Unanimous Selection will have his/her name engraved on a plaque that hangs in the ASA office. A special thank you goes to Leveldale Farms and Les Mathers for his $10,000 donation to the program in honor of his parents. Congratulations to Sarah and Tyler!

 

2012 All-American Jr. Breeder Winners

The new All-American Junior Breeder program is designed to reward young Shorthorn breeders for their general knowledge of Shorthorn cattle. The end goal is to engage young cattle producers in Shorthorns with the hope that they stay in the breed long after their junior days are over. The program tests participants understanding of phenotype, performance reporting, EPDs, and the pedigrees that fit their operation. Winners each year will receive “Shorthorn Bucks” or dollars that can be used to purchase purebred Shorthorn females or bulls to expand their herd. Breeders can contribute $100 to nominate their herd for the program; state association sales and consignment/production sales can nominate their cattle for $250. In addition, 1% of the sale gross from The Summit National Shorthorn Sale in Denver helps fund the program. Winners of the All-American Junior Breeder Award may only purchase Shorthorns from breeders and sales that donate to the program.

In 2012, four winners were announced during the banquet at the Junior National Show in Grand Island, Nebraska. Luke Bolin of Arkansas and Matthew Hahn from Illinois were named All-American Junior Breeders and received $500 each. Ethan Gilman from Iowa and Emily Moore from Illinois excelled the competition, each receiving $1,500 to expand their herds. Emily Moore was selected by the panel of judges as the Unanimous Selection All-American Junior Breeder. Each year, the Unanimous Selection will have his/her name engraved on a plaque that hangs in the ASA office. A special thank you goes to Leveldale Farms and Les Mathers for his $10,000 donation to the program in honor of his parents. Congratulations Luke, Matthew, Ethan, and Emily!