Attending the State 4-H Livestock Judging contest is a great way for members to demonstrate the skills that they have been working on year-round. We know you know that, but if you need a bit more convincing to register you or your child for this contest, here are 10 reasons why 4-H Members should attend the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest.
Build real-world decision-making skills
Youth who participate in livestock judging are developing skills that make them Beyond Ready for work and life. Critical thinking, decision-making, and public speaking are just a few skills a member will learn through livestock judging. In fact, the skills developed are so impactful that we wrote a whole blog post about them. Check it out!
Improve public speaking & communication
At the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest, all seniors participants will give oral reasons in defense of their placings. This allows members to grow and develop in their ability to explain their thinking, speak persuasively, and build their confidence. Our junior participants begin growing their skills by answering questions about the animals that they saw that day. That memory recall is definitely helpful come test time!
Prepare for college & career pathways
The skills gained in livestock judging translate directly to careers in agriculture, veterinary science, animal science, education, and beyond. Plus, many 4-H members who participate in livestock judging are given the opportunity to judge in college and even earn scholarships!
Connect with other motivated 4-H members
4-H members from across the state will participate in the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest. As a participant, you will have the opportunity to meet like-minded youth who share your interests, goals, and passions. These are friendships that will last a lifetime!
Represent your county with pride
Competing at the state level is a big deal! When you participate in the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest, you get to represent your county 4-H program and show off how hard you and your fellow 4-H members have worked all year.
Develop responsibility and sportsmanship
Our 4-H members who participate in livestock judging work incredibly hard year-round to develop their skills and bring home the biggest banners. The State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest is a culmination of all of this hard work and passion. While we truly believe that all members who participate in this contest are winners and have demonstrated victory over their own challenges, only one member or team will bring home the champion banner. At the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest, members learn how to handle pressure, accept results professionally, and respect judges, coaches, and fellow competitors.
Create memorable 4-H experiences
The State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest is often a highlight of a member’s 4-H career. From traveling together at early hours to make it to the contest on time, to cheering on friends and teammates, and a few too many gas station snacks, these are memories that our 4-H alumni recall years later when you ask them about their favorite 4-H experience.
Try out for the State 4-H Livestock Judging Team
Senior participants at the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest get the chance to compete for a spot on the state team who will represent Illinois at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky.
Visit University of Urbana-Champaign Campus
The State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest is hosted each year at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign’s Stock Pavillion. This historic building is only one of the places you should check out while on campus! Participants should consider booking a formal tour of the university if they are in high school. Younger 4-H members will still enjoy driving around campus and taking in the many historic buildings.
Try a new challenge with the State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest
4-H members are adaptable and appreciate a good challenge. Livestock judging participants should test their knowledge in another area of animal science and participate in the State 4-H Poultry Contest that will take place the next day! This contest might just spark your newest passion.
About the Author: Shelby Carlson is a 4-H Youth Development Educator serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties. Carlson and is currently serving as the co-interim State Animal Science Specialist. Carlson joined University of Illinois Extension in 2018. Teaming with local 4-H program coordinators and volunteers, she plans, conducts, and evaluates programs that are consistent with the needs of local youth. Carlson provides programming related to college and career readiness, leadership, social and emotional learning, and more, in addition to her work with 4-H clubs.