OPSU Show Team Shines at Mid-American Stock Show

The OPSU Show Team left its mark at the Mid-American Stock Show held in Hutchinson, KS, October 27 to 29. This show was open to exhibitors from across the nation, seeing participants from the midwestern and southern United States converge to compete in a showcase of livestock excellence. This year, OPSU proudly introduced its newly formed show team, showcasing their sheep flock genetics with six registered ewes of Shropshire and Hampshire breeds.

The OPSU Show Team’s journey to the Mid-American Stock Show was not just about competition but also a unique educational experience. Throughout the semester, students were actively involved in their animals’ daily care and preparation, providing them with hands-on learning opportunities. This practical experience complements their traditional education and adds valuable skills to their resumes, making them more competitive in the job market.

Dean Tracy Kincannon, for the College of Agriculture, Science, and Nursing, stated, “I am proud of the work that has come from the OPSU Show Team. This being their first year, they have hit the ground running, and I am ready to see what all they do. We are proud to continue the tradition of excellence in our college and look forward to many more achievements in the future.”

The traveling team, consisting of Alya Arana, Bronk Embry, Claire Scheopner, Colby Perez, Grant Theurer, Kami Kornele, Keyly Jarret, Kreslyn Smith, Mya Martinez, Shelby Seabourn, and Karlee Callahan, demonstrated exceptional teamwork and expertise at the Mid-American Stock Show. Their results reflect the dedication and commitment they poured into this endeavor:

Champion Pair of Hampshire Ewe (Bronk & Kami, Kreslyn & Alya)
Champion Pair of Shropshire Ewes (Grant & Karlee, Colby & Shelby)
Reserve Champion Pair of Shropshire Ewes (Mya, Claire & Keyly)
Reserve Champion Hampshire Ewe (Bronk & Kami)
Reserve Champion Shropshire Ewe (Grant & Karlee)
3rd place January Hampshire Ewe Lamb (Kreslyn & Alya)
3rd place January Shropshire Ewe Lamb (Colby & Shelby)
4th place January Shropshire Ewe Lamb (Claire & Keyly)
5th place January Shropshire Ewe Lamb (Mya)

“Our first stock show outing was very memorable and showcased the hard work that the team has put into their animals. This team is the true definition of collaboration and resilience,” stated Cassidy Tolle-Johnson, Show Team Coach. “In its first year, the OPSU Show Team has joined 15 students from 4 states, all with different levels of livestock showing experience. I am very proud of the dedication that these students show to both OPSU and the livestock industry. I look forward to continuing to grow this program.”