Abingdon-Avon FFA Earns Reserve Champion at State Livestock Judging Contest, Advances to Nationals

By - Abingdon-Avon FFA Chapter Reporter, Collin Jennings

The Abingdon-Avon FFA livestock judging team competed at the Illinois State Livestock Judging Contest on Friday, April 24, in Bloomington, earning the title of Reserve Champion overall and securing a spot at the National Livestock Judging Contest in Denver, Colorado. Leading the team was senior Anna, who claimed first-place individual honors in the state competition. Additional team members also earned strong individual finishes, with Maci Brooks placing 7th, Rhykerd Greer 16th, Taylor Hendel 26th, and Izzy Kemp 37th. The team was coached by FFA Advisors Makayla Worthington and Colby Trone.

The team’s success reflects months of dedication, preparation, and experience in the livestock industry. Each member has grown up around livestock and has spent significant time developing the skills necessary to evaluate animal quality and performance. This marks just one of several competitions the Abingdon-Avon FFA livestock judging team has participated in throughout the year. With their state success behind them, the team will now prepare to represent Illinois at the national competition in Denver.