The livestock judging team is not only rich in tradition of successful livestock evaluators but also; more importantly in preparing students for future career success. Each year, the UNL Livestock Judging Team visits over 60 of the top livestock operations in 15 states to prepare for national competitions. Currently, the team participates in ten regional and national competitions throughout the year including the National Western Stock Show (Denver, CO), the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (Houston, TX), the American Royal (Kansas City, MO), and the National Collegiate Livestock Judging Contest held in conjunction with the North American International Livestock Exposition (Louisville, KY).
Workout stops include seeing some of the nation’s best livestock and meeting many of the influential breeders and top management minds of elite livestock operations. Livestock judging team participation increases the visibility of exceptional students that make up the Animal Science Department at UNL. This in turn contributes directly to the UNL Animal Science Department’s job placement rate of which, livestock judging team participation has proved to be a major placement factor.
Upon reviewing the history the UNL Livestock Judging Team, it is apparent that many of the most successful breeders and influential leaders in the livestock industry trace their roots back to participation on competitive livestock judging teams. Over 800 students have participated since the program began in 1908. The vast majority feel their livestock judging experience was highly influential on their development of critical thinking skills, speaking abilities and overall job placement potential. Students under the direction of coach, Matt Ellicott have obtained careers with Cargill, Elanco, Farm Credit, Land O’Lakes, Lone Creek Cattle Company, and Pioneer just to name a few. Alumni consider their livestock judging team experience as beneficial as any college course or activity while completing their education at UNL.
The 2011 University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team finished 5th, and in the top five for the second time in three years, at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, KY. In the past four years, UNL is among only four other universities to finish in the top five more than once at the National Champion Contest. Other schools include Kansas State, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M and Texas Tech.
The opportunity to participate on the livestock judging team exists for all UNL students regardless of major and the skills gained as a result of this experience will be of major benefit in any career.
For more information contact Matt Ellicott 402-472-8834 or mellicott2@unl.edu
Read on to learn more about this year's UNL Livestock Judging Team, or follow the link to see historical photos of past
UNL Livestock Judging Team
The University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team has had a productive fall. Since the beginning of classes in August, the team has traveled to four contests throughout the country. The team has continued to grow and improve as individuals and a team. With two contests left, the team is poised to finish the season strong. Here are some highlights from the fall thus far.
First the team traveled to El Dorado, KS to compete in the 6th Annual Flint Hills Classic Judging Contest held by Butler Community College. The team continued to gain ground on by placing 10th out of 20 teams. Individually, Jackie McKenney was 5th in reasons, 9th in sheep, 9th in cattle and 9th overall. Jake Hoffschnieder was 7th in sheep. The next day the team competed at the Mid-America Classic in Wichita, KS. The team finished 12th overall and Jake Hoffschnieder was 6th in sheep.
The final weekend in September the team judged at AKSARBEN. UNL placed 6th overall with the team placing 6th in swine, 5th in cattle, 7th in sheep, 3rd in placings and 7th in oral reasons. Individually, Jackie McKenney was 3rd in placings, 9th in sheep, 7th in cattle, 14th in reasons and 5th overall. Jake Hoffschnieder was 6th in placings, 4th in cattle, 15th in reasons, 2nd in swine and 11th overall.
Most recently the team traveled to the Premier Stockman in Auburn, IN. This is only an individual contest competition with no team recognition. Jackie McKenney had a contest leading day in swine talking one of the high sets and placing first in swine and 13th overall. Jake Hoffschnieder talked the other high set in swine and finished 17th overall.
Looking forward, the team will travel to the American Royal on November 2, 2012 and will conclude their fall season at the North American International Livestock Exposition on November 12, 2012.
The team members are:
- Will Anderjaska, Palisade
- Katie Bunde, Doniphan
- Shelby Gresham, Castle Rock, CO
- Jake Hoffschnieder, Arlington
- Jackie McKenney, Big Timber, MT
- Caleb McKeever, Wymore
- Justin Nollette, Nenzel
- Alma Wellensiek, Syracuse
The team is coached by:
- Matt Ellicott, UNL Livestock Judging Coach
- Jay Nordhausen, Assistant Coach
UNL Livestock Judging Team 4th Overall in Dixie
On February 11th, 2012 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the Dixie National Cattle Judging Contest in Jackson, MS. The team continued a strong performance in their third contest of the spring. Individually Jake Hoffschneider led the team with an 11th place overall finish.
The Dixie National Contest is divided into four divisions of cattle, based on breed type or market. Additionally, students are recognized in placings and reasons. In placings, Katie Bunde led the team finishing 2nd. In the English Division, Jake Hoffschneider was 5th, Will Anderjaska was 18th and the team was 5th. In the Continental Division, Jackie McKenney and Jake Hoffschneider tied for 16th and the team was 4th. In the Brahman Influenced Division Katie Bunde was 13th, Jackie McKenney was 16th and the team was 4th. In the Market Steer Division, Shelby Cunningham was 14th, Jackie McKenney was 20th and the team was 3rd. In Oral Reasons, Jake Hoffschneider was 6th, Jackie McKenney was 8th and the team was 4th. Overall, Jake Hoffschneider was 11th, Jackie McKenney was 13th, Katie Bunde was 20th, Shelby Cunningham was 29th, and Justin Nollette was 35th.
The team members are:
- Will Anderjaska, Palisade
- Katie Bunde, Doniphan
- Shelby Cunningham, Castle Rock, CO
- Jake Hoffschnieder, Arlington
- Jackie McKenney, Big Timber, MT
- Caleb McKeever, Wymore
- Justin Nollette, Nenzel
- Alma Wellensiek, Syracuse
The team is coached by:
- Matt Ellicott, UNL Livestock Judging Coach
- Jay Nordhausen, Assistant Coach
UNL Livestock Judging Team Begins Spring Season Strong
On January 12, 2012, the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the National Western Stock Show in Denver, CO. This served as the first national contest for the 2012 team. UNL had a solid initial contest finishing 13th out of 28 schools. UNL was led in the contest by Jackie McKenney finishing 6th overall. Jackie was also 2nd in beef cattle reasons, 3rd in beef cattle and 3rd in reasons overall. UNL also had three of the remaining four team members place in the top 50% of the contest.
UNL has also traveled to Sioux Falls, SD for the Sioux Empire Show Contest on January 28, 2012. This contest was the first opportunity for all members of the current team to compete on the same day. The team made great strides including finishing 6th in placings, and 7th overall as a team. Individually, Jackie McKenney had a team leading day placing 1st in sheep, 20th in cattle, 10th in swine, 3rd in reasons and 4th overall. Shelby Cunningham was 5th in placings, 12th in sheep, 12th in swine and 13th overall. Jake Hoffschnieder was 10th in placings and 19th in sheep. Caleb McCeever was 21st in cattle.
Looking forward the team will be traveling to Jackson, MS, February 9-12 for the Dixie National Cattle Contest.
The team members are:
- Will Anderjaska, Palisade
- Katie Bunde, Doniphan
- Shelby Cunningham, Castle Rock, CO
- Jake Hoffschnieder, Arlington
- Jackie McKenney, Big Timber, MT
- Caleb McKeever, Wymore
- Justin Nollette, Nenzel
- Alma Wellensiek, Syracuse
The team is coached by:
- Matt Ellicott, UNL Livestock Judging Coach
- Jay Nordhausen, Assistant Coach
Matt Ellicott the UNL Livestock Judging Team Coach was elected President of the National Senior College Coaches Association
2011 Livestock Judging Team Results
On January 14, 2011 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the National Western Stock Show in Denver, CO. This served as the first national contest for the 2011 team. UNL had a solid initial contest finishing 13th out of 28 schools. The carload contest took place the next day. UNL students had another solid performance placing pens of cattle. Nick Hansen led the team with an 11th place finish out of 133 contestants. Overall the team finished 11th out of 28 schools in the carload contest.
UNL then traveled to Sioux Falls, SD for the Sioux Empire Show Contest on January 29, 2011. This contest was the first opportunity for all members of the current team to compete on the same day. The team made great strides including finishing 4th overall in placings and 7th overall as a team. Individually, Andrew Uden had a team leading day placing 4th in placings, 8th in sheep, 15th in cattle and 4th overall. Brandon Koch was 20th in placings, 9th in beef and 24th overall. Cody Kester was 16th in placings, and 15th in sheep. Cashley Ahlberg was 9th in swine. Brodie Mackey was 3rd in sheep. Nick Hansen was 17th in placings and Rebecca Engler was 12th in cattle.
On February 12th, 2011 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the Dixie National Cattle Judging Contest in Jackson, MS. The team continued a strong performance in their third contest of the spring. Individually Cashley Ahlberg lead the team with a 17th place overall finish.
The Dixie National Contest is divided into four divisions of cattle, based on breed type or market. Additionally, students are recognized in placings and reasons. In placings, four members of the team placed in the top ten, with Cashley Ahlberg placing 3rd, Brandon Koch placed 4th, Nick Hansen placed 7th and Austin Zimmerman placed 10th. In the English Division, Brandon Koch was 5th, Nick Hansen was 9th and the team was 3rd. In the Continental Division, Cashley Ahlberg and Jessica Clowser tied for 18th and the team was 5th. In the Brahman Influenced Division Brodie Mackey tied for 10th, Cashley Ahlberg was 16th and the team was 6th. In the Market Steer Division, Andrew Uden tied for 10th and the team was 4th. Overall Cashley Ahlberg, Brodie Mackey, Brandon Koch, Jessica Clowser and Andrew Uden all placed in the top 40 out of 109 contestants. Overall the team was 4th out of 17 schools.
The University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at two contests to finish the spring semester. On February 19th, 2011 the team competed at the 4th Annual Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Judging Contest in Kearney, NE. The team had a solid day obtaining 6th in placings, and 3rd in oral reasons, effectively allowing the team to place 3rd Overall. This year’s contest served as the largest ever senior college contest with 11 teams and 51 contestants.
Individually Andrew Uden was 7th in placings, Cody Kester was 9th, and Rebecca Engler was 12th. In oral reasons Brodie Mackey was 2nd overall. Individually overall, Brodie Mackey led the team placing 6th and Andrew Uden was 12th.
On March 15th, the team competed at the Houston Livestock Show in Houston, TX. UNL continued to gain ground on the competition at a national level. The team was 5th in placings, 11th in cattle, 11th in sheep, 11th in swine, 13th in oral reasons and 9th overall. Individually Jessica Clowser was 16th in placings, 11th in goats, 6th in swine, 6th in sheep and placed 24th overall. Also, Brandon Koch was tied for 10th in cattle, Andrew Uden was 17th in placings and Cody Kester was 15th in the Alternate Division. In total there were 27 teams and 210 contestants in the contest.
To start the fall the team competed on September12th, in Austin, MN judging at the NBS. The team finished a solid day finishing 6th out of 15 teams from across the nation. This year recorded the second largest contest in the history of the barrow show, in total, 28 schools and 220 contestants participated in the event. Individually, Andrew Uden placed 33rd in placings and 33rd in oral reasons, finishing 20th overall. Also, Jess Clowser was 8th in placings and 21st overall. Cashley Ahlberg was 15th in placings and 24th overall, and Brodie Mackey was 15th in oral reasons. As a team UNL finished 4th in placings, 6th in Questions, and 8th in oral reasons.
Prior to competing at AKSARBEN the team traveled to El Dorado, KS to compete in the 5th Annual Flint Hills Classic Judging Contest held by Butler Community College. The team continued to gain ground on competition by placing 6th out of 18 teams. As a team, the University of Nebraska was 3rd in placings, 5th in sheep, 8th in cattle, 9th in sheep and 12th in reasons. Individually, Cashley Ahlberg was 4th in placings, 10th in sheep, and 9th overall. Brodie Mackey was 10th in placings and 20th overall
At the AKSARBEN Contest held in Omaha, NE UNL placed 3rd overall behind Iowa State University and the University of Illinois. The team placed 4th in swine, 4th in cattle, 1st in sheep, 3rd in placings and 3rd in oral reasons. Individually, Austin Zimmerman was 1st in placings, 4th in swine, 8th in sheep, 13th in cattle and 3rd overall. Brandon Koch was 7th in placings, 6th in cattle, 12th in reasons, 13th in swine and 10th overall. Brodie Mackey was 1st in sheep, 9th in cattle, 11th in reasons and 11th overall. Cody Kester was 2nd in sheep and 8th in swine. Jess Clowser was 3rd in sheep, Nick Hansen was 10th in placings, and Andrew Uden was 13th in reasons.
On October 29th, the team competed at the American Royal. The team continued to gain ground finishing 10th in sheep, 15th in swine, 12th in cattle, 15th in reasons and 11th overall out of 32 schools. Andrew Uden led the team with a 13th place finish out of 148 contestants.
To finish the 2011 season on November 14, 2011 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team finished 5th, and in the top five for the second time in three years, at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, KY. In the past four years, UNL is among only four other teams to finish in the top five more than once at the National Champion Contest. Other schools include Kansas State, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M and Texas Tech. This contest served as the final national contest for the 2011 team.
In sheep judging the team finished 10th and individually, Andrew Uden finished 25th. In swine judging the team finished 5th and individually, Cashley Ahlberg finished 18th. In cattle judging the team was 7th and individually, Cashley Ahlberg finished 26th. In Reasons the team finished 10th and individually Andrew Uden finished 27th. Overall the team finished 5th out of 33 teams. Individually, UNL had a consistent day with Cashley Ahlberg finishing 10th, Andrew Uden 32nd, Brodie Mackey 34th, Jessica Clowser 42nd and Austin Zimmerman 86th, out of 154 contestants.
Each team member made great strides while competing on the team during the season. Experience on the team, will defiantly aide in each of their future endeavors. Six of the team members will be attending graduate, vet or law school after graduation. Two team members will continue their education with internships, and the final team member will graduate in May. Jay and I enjoyed working with a great group of future livestock leaders, and wish them the very best for their future.
UNL Livestock Judging Team 5th at the North American
On November 14, 2011 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team finished 5th, and in the top five for the second time in three years, at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, KY. In the past four years, UNL is among only four other teams to finish in the top five more than once at the National Champion Contest. Other schools include Kansas State, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M and Texas Tech. This contest served as the final national contest for the 2011 team.
In sheep judging the team finished 10th and individually, Andrew Uden finished 25th. In swine judging the team finished 5th and individually, Cashley Ahlberg finished 18th. In cattle judging the team was 7th and individually, Cashley Ahlberg finished 26th. In Reasons the team finished 10th and individually Andrew Uden finished 27th. Overall the team finished 5th out of 33 teams. Individually, UNL had a consistent day with Cashley Ahlberg finishing 10th, Andrew Uden 32nd, Brodie Mackey 34th, Jessica Clowser 42nd and Austin Zimmerman 86th, out of 154 contestants.
Prior to the North American, the team competed at the American Royal. The team continued to gain ground finishing 10th in sheep, 15th in swine, 12th in cattle, 15th in reasons and 11th overall out of 32 schools. Andrew Uden led the team with a 13th place finish out of 148 contestants.
Each team member made great strides while competing on the team during the season. Experience on the team, will definitely aid in each of their future endeavors. Six of the team members will be attending graduate, vet or law school after graduation. Two team members will continue their education with internships, and the final team member will graduate in May. Jay and I enjoyed working with a great group of future livestock leaders, and wish them the very best for their future.
The team members are:
- Cashley Ahlberg, Longmont, CO
- Jessica Clowser, Seward
- Rebecca Engler, Nevada, IA
- Nick Hansen, Laurel
- Cody Kester, Clearwater
- Brandon Koch, Lincoln
- Brodie Mackey, Torrington, WY
- Andrew Uden, Elwood
- Austin Zimmerman, Beatrice
The team is coached by:
- Matt Ellicott, UNL Extension Educator and Livestock Judging Coach.
- Jay Nordhausen, Graduate Assistant
University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team 2011 Fall Contests:
September 12th National Barrow Show
September 23rd Flint Hills Classic
September 25th AKSARBEN
October 15th Premier Stockman
October 29th American Royal
November 14th North American International
The team members are:
- Cashley Alhberg, Longmont, CO
- Jessica Clowser, Seward
- Rebecca Engler, Nevada, IA
- Nick Hansen, Laurel
- Cody Kester, Clear Water
- Brandon Koch, Lincoln
- Brodie Mackey, Torrington, WY
- Andrew Uden, Elmwood
- Austin Zimmerman, Beatrice
The team is coached by:
- Matt Ellicott, UNL Extension Educator and Livestock Judging Coach.
- Assisting is Jay Norhausen from Ogallala, Master's student under the direction of Matt Ellicott and Steve Jones.
UNL Livestock Judging Team 3rd at AKSARBEN
UNL placed 3rd overall behind Iowa State University and the University of Illinois. The team placed 4th in swine, 4th in cattle, 1st in sheep, 3rd in placings and 3rd in oral reasons. Individually, Austin Zimmerman was 1st in placings, 4th in swine, 8th in sheep, 13th in cattle and 3rd overall. Brandon Koch was 7th in placings, 6th in cattle, 12th in reasons, 13th in swine and 10th overall. Brodie Mackey was 1st in sheep, 9th in cattle, 11th in reasons and 11th overall. Cody Kester was 2nd in sheep and 8th in swine. Jess Clowser was 3rd in sheep, Nick Hansen was 10th in placings, and Andrew Uden was 13th in reasons.
Prior to competing at AKSARBEN the team traveled to El Dorado, KS to compete in the 5th Annual Flint Hills Classic Judging Contest held by Butler Community College. The team continued to gain ground on competition by placing 6th out of 18 teams. As a team, the University of Nebraska was 3rd in placings, 5th in sheep, 8th in cattle, 9th in sheep and 12th in reasons. Individually, Cashley Ahlberg was 4th in placings, 10th in sheep, and 9th overall. Brodie Mackey was 10th in placings and 20th overall
Looking forward, the team will travel to the American Royal on October 29, 2011 and will conclude their fall season at the North American International Livestock Exposition on November 14, 2011.
The team members are:
- Cashley Ahlberg, Longmont, CO
- Jessica Clowser, Seward
- Rebecca Engler, Nevada, IA
- Nick Hansen, Laurel
- Cody Kester, Clearwater
- Brandon Koch, Lincoln
- Brodie Mackey, Torrington, WY
- Andrew Uden, Elwood
- Austin Zimmerman, Beatrice
The team is coached by:
- Matt Ellicott, UNL Extension Educator and Livestock Judging Coach.
- Jay Nordhausen, Graduate Assistant
2010 Livestock Judging Team Results
Starting in early December the 2010 team began team preparation for the upcoming season. Students practiced each weekend outside of the holidays at various state producers operations. Along with this many hours were spent during the final weeks of the semester improving their reasons skill abilities. Shortly after the first of the year the team set out on winter workout in Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming and Kansas to begin final preparation for the National Western Stock Show. The team had a solid day at Denver that provided more learning recognition. Looking to build on this, the team worked hard in preparation for their next contest in Jackson, MS.
On February 13th, 2010 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the Dixie National Livestock Judging Contest in Jackson, MS. The team made significant improvements in placings and reasons placing third and fourth respectively. Individually Sam Munderloh and Tyson Narjes led the team in placings tied for 15th. In oral reasons, Emily Arkfeld was 16th.
The Dixie National Contest is divided into four divisions of cattle based on breeds and market. In the English Division Tyson Narjes was 13th and the team was 5th. In the Continental Division Dex Driskell and Sam Munderloh tied for 8th and the team was 3rd. In the Brahman Influenced Division Tyson Narjes tied for 10th and the team was 5th. In the market Steer Division Emily Arkfeld was 11th and the team was 6th. Overall Tyson Narjes led the team with an 18th place finish out of 95 contestants. The team was 3rd overall out of 11 schools.
On February 20th, 2010 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Judging Contest in Kearney, NE. The team had a contest leading day in placings and marked a 5th place finish in oral reasons.
Individually Dex Driskell was 2nd in placings, Jared Williams was 4th, and Sam Munderloh was 9th. In oral reasons Jessica Cornelius was 5th, Emily Arkfeld was 11th, Jared Williams was 13th, Tacy Langemeier was 14th and Tyson Narjes was 15th. Overall, Jessica Cornelius led the team placing 3rd, Jared Williams was 5th, Dex Driskell was 14th, and Sam Munderloh was 16th. The team finished 3rd overall just seven points behind contest winner, the University of Minnesota.
In total 9 teams and 46 contestants competed in the largest Senior College contest ever. In addition 107 Junior College contestants from 11 colleges and 85 4-H and FFA youth participated in this year’s event sponsored by the University of Nebraska and the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic.
On March 17, 2010 the team traveled to Houston, TX for the final contest of the spring season. The team improved in many areas individually with several team members improving in species, placings or oral reasons from previous contest outcomes. Although the team placed outside of the top ten to finish the spring, the team is motivated and positioned for a great fall.
The team began the fall traveling to the National Barrow Show on September13th, in Austin, MN. The team completed a solid day finishing 9th out of 17 teams from across the nation. This year recorded the second largest contest in the history of the barrow show. Individually, Jessica Cornelius was 22nd in oral reasons. Emily Arkfeld was 19th in placings and placed 24th overall. As a team UNL was 5th in placings and 9th in oral reasons.
Next the team traveled to El Dorado, KS to compete in the 4th Annual Flinthills Classic Judging Contest held by Butler Community College. The team continued to gain ground on competition by placing 11th out of 23 teams. Although not the outcome the team wanted, the team was just 11 points from placing 7th overall. Individually, Emily Arkfeld was 8th in sheep.
UNL placed 3rd overall behind the University of Minnesota and Iowa State University at the 3rd Annual AKSARBEN Livestock Judging Contest. The team placed 2nd in swine, 3rd in cattle, 3rd in sheep, 3rd in placings and 4th in oral reasons. Individually, Emily Arkfeld was 3rd in sheep, 5th in oral reasons, 11th in placings, and 5th overall. Jess Cornelius was 7th in placings, 8th in swine, 14th in cattle and 12th overall. Tacy Langemeier was 4th in sheep, 6th in placings and 13th overall. Sam Munderloh was 11th in sheep and 13th in swine. Cody Dvorak was 9th in sheep.
On November 16, 2010 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, KY. This contest served as the final national contest for the 2010 team. UNL was represented very well. Emily Arkfeld was named to the All-American team (which is a comprised of only 10 and takes into account academics along with judging accomplishments). UNL has placed a student on the All-American team for a fourth straight year. Emily is also the eighth student in ten years to represent UNL as an All-American.
In sheep judging the team finished 15th and individually Jess Cornelius finished 29th. In swine judging the team finished 16th and individually Emily Arkfeld finished 33rd. In cattle judging the team was 17th and individually Sam Munderloh finished 22nd. In reasons the team finished 14th. Overall the team finished 15th out of 30 teams, and Sam Munderloh led all UNL judgers with a 37th place finish.
Each team member made great strides while competing on the team during the season. Experience on the team, will no question aide in each of their future endeavors. Four of the team members are planning to return home upon graduation to help their family operations. Three team members plan to enroll in graduate school, with the final two starting work in vet school and as a high school teacher.
On November 16, 2010 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, KY. This contest served as the final national contest for the 2010 team. UNL was represented very well. Emily Arkfeld was named to the All-American team (which is a comprised of only 10 and takes into account academics along with judging accomplishments). UNL has placed a student on the All-American team for a fourth straight year. Emily is also the eighth student in ten years to represent UNL as an All-American.
In sheep judging the team finished 15th and individually Jess Cornelius finished 29th. In swine judging the team finished 16th and individually Emily Arkfeld finished 33rd. In cattle judging the team was 17th and individually Sam Munderloh finished 22nd. In Reasons the team finished 14th. Overall the team finished 15th out of 30 teams, and Sam Munderloh led all UNL judgers with a 37th place finish.
Each team member made great strides while competing on the team during the season. Experience on the team, will defiantly aide in each of their future endeavors. Four of the team members are planning to return home upon graduation to help their family operations. Three team members plan to enroll in graduate school, with the final two starting work in vet school and as a high school teacher. Jason and I enjoyed working with a great group of future livestock leaders, and wish them the very best for their future.
- Tyson Narjes - Sidney NE
- Dex Driskell – Wakefield, NE
- Cody Dvorak - Stuart, NE
- Jared Williams – Broken Bow, NE
- Sam Munderloh – Colby, NE
- Emily Arkfeld – Dunbar, NE
- Tacy Langemeier - Stromsburg, NE
- Lisa Watermeier – Burr, NE
- Jessica Cornelius – Madrid, NE
The team is coached by:
- Matt Ellicott, UNL Extension Educator and Livestock Judging Coach.
- Assisting is Jasone Warner from Arapahoe, a Master's student under the direction of Dr. Rick Rasby.
UNL 3rd Overall At
2009 North American International Livestock Exposition
Back Row Mitch Novacek, Todd Ostermiller, Jay Nordhausen, Jason Star, Tom Murphy, Dr. Berger (Dept. Head)
Front Row Matt Ellicott (Coach), McKenzie Chambers, Shellie Intermill, Clint Mickey, Carrie Saur, Trey Kellner
On November 16th the team traveled to Louisville, KY to compete at the NAILE. UNL had a great final contest finishing third overall out of 27 schools and winning swine for the second straight national contest. This accomplishment is the highest for the judging team in almost two decades! Along with this Trey Kellner was named to the All-American Team (which is a comprised of only 10 and takes into account academics along with judging accomplishments). UNL has now placed a student on the All-American Team seven times out of the nine years since this prestigious award started.
Individually, McKenzie Chambers finished 7th in swine and 25th overall. Shellie Intermill finished 2nd in cattle reasons, 17th in cattle, 17th in oral reasons and 20th overall. Trey Kellner finished 9th in swine, 4th in swine reasons, 13th in cattle, 5th in performance cattle, 11th in oral reasons and 12th overall. Jay Nordhausen finished 6th in swine, 12th in cattle and 8th overall. Todd Ostermiller finished 26th in cattle, 28th in oral reasons and 36th overall. The team finished 2nd in Cattle, 2nd in Performance Cattle, 2nd in Total Performance, 1st in Swine, 9th in Sheep, 5th in Reasons, and 3rd Overall out of 27 schools.
This contest was the final competition for the senior team. Team members finishing a great season include: McKenzie Chambers, Colorado; Shellie Intermill, Alliance; Trey Kellner, Kansas; Clint Mickey, Aurora; Tom Murphy, Elkhorn; Jay Nordhausen, Ogallala; Mitch Novacek, Schuyler; Todd Ostermiller, Wyoming; Carrie Saur, Wyoming; Jason Star, North Platte. The team is coached by Matt Ellicott.
University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team Activities
UNL Livestock Judging Team Continues Strong Fall Run
Since the National Barrow Show and Northern Lights contests, the University of Nebraska's Livestock Judging Team has competed at the Flint Hills Classic and the Premier Stockman.
On September 25th, the team traveled to El Dorado, KS for the Flint Hills Classic and finished 6th out of 12 teams from across the nation. Jay Nordhausen led the team with a 3rd overall finish.
UNL was 4th in sheep, 7th in swine, 8th in beef, and 6th in reasons. Individually, several team members had good days. Jay Nordhausen was 3rd in beef, 10th in swine, 6th in sheep and 7th in reasons. Three other team members were recognized for their accomplishments; McKenzie Chambers tied for 10th in sheep, Trey Kellner was 11th in beef and Shellie Intermill was 11th in reasons.
On October 15th, the team traveled to Frankfort, IN to compete in the Premier Stockman Judging Contest. More than 80 contestants representing teams from as far east and west as Penn State and Chico State (California) competed at the contest. There is no team competition at the contest only individual recognition. Several UNL team members had good days. Todd Ostermiller led the team finishing 2nd high individual overall. Along with this Todd was 1st in placings, 3rd in beef, 5th in swine and 11th in sheep. Jay Nordhausen also had a great day finishing 4th overall, 3rd in beef, 5th in sheep and 5th in reasons. Two other team members were recognized for their achievements; Trey Kellner was 3rd in sheep and McKenzie Chambers was 9th in beef.
The team looks to continue working towards their goals traveling to the American Royal on October 31, 2009.
The team members are:
• McKenzie Chambers, Mead, CO
• Shellie Intermill, Alliance
• Trey Kellner, Stockton, KS
• Clint Mickey, Aurora
• Tom Murphy, Elkhorn
• Jay Nordhausen, Ogallala
• Mitch Novacek, Schuyler
• Todd Ostermiller, La Grange, WY
• Carrie Saur, Gillette, WY
• Jason Star, North Platte
The team is coached by:
• Matt Ellicott, UNL Extension Educator and Livestock Judging Coach.
Since classes began this fall, the University of Nebraska's Livestock Judging Team has competed in two contests. The team gathered for their first fall workout on August 15th.
On September 11th, the team competed in the first ever Northern Lights Judging Contest in Jackson, Minnesota. The team had contest leading day being named Champion Team Overall out of 7 Teams. Individually, several team members finished well. Todd Ostermiller was 3rd in beef, 10th in sheep, 1st in swine, 5th in reasons and named High Individual. Shellie Intermill was 4th in swine, 3rd in reasons and 3rd overall. Jay Nordhausen was 3rd in swine, 4th in reasons and 4th overall. Trey Kellner was 1st in sheep, 6th in reasons and 10th overall. Tom Murphy was 2nd in sheep and 12th overall. Mitch Novacek was 9th in swine and 13th overall. Jason Star was 4th in cattle and Carrie Saur was 10th. The team finished 2nd in cattle, 1st in sheep, 1st in swine, and 1st in oral reasons along the way to being named Champion Team.
The team continued their travel on September14th, in Austin, Minnesota, judging at the National Barrow Show. The team completed a solid day finishing 10th out of 18 teams from across the nation. This year recorded the largest contest in the history of the barrow show with record numbers in both college divisions. In total, 34 schools and 246 contestants participated in the event. Individually, Shellie Intermill was 1st in placings, 11th in oral reasons and placed 3rd overall. Also, Mitch Novacek was 12th in placings and Trey Kellner was 13th in placings.
Next the team will be traveling to El Dorado, Kansas, to compete in the 3rd Annual Flinthills Classic Judging Contest held by Butler Community College.
The team members are:
• McKenzie Chambers, Colorado
• Shellie Intermill, Alliance
• Trey Kellner, Kansas
• Clint Mickey, Aurora
• Tom Murphy, Elkhorn
• Jay Nordhausen, Ogallala
• Mitch Novacek, Schuyler
• Todd Ostermiller, Wyoming
• Carrie Saur, Wyoming
• Jason Start, North Platte
The team is coached by:
• Matt Ellicott, UNL Extension Educator and Livestock Judging Coach (mellicott2@unl.edu)
2009 University of Nebraska Lincoln Livestock Judging Team Contest Results
UNL Livestock Judging Team competed at the Houston Livestock Stock Show & Rodeo in Houston TX March 18, 2009
On March 18, 2009 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the Houston Livestock Stock Show & Rodeo in Houston, TX. This served as the final spring contest for the 2009 team. UNL was well represented with several top finishes.
In Sheep judging, the team finished 4th. Individually, Trey Kellner finished 5th and Todd Ostermiller finished 7th overall. In Swine judging, the team finished 14th. In Goat judging, the team finished 2nd. In Cattle judging, the team finished 8th. Individually, Todd Ostermiller finished 10th and Trey Kellner was 13th overall. In Oral Reasons, the team finished 8th. Individually, Todd Ostermiller placed 25th.
Overall the team finished 11th. Trey Kellner led the team with a 20th place finish and Todd Ostermiller placed 24th overall out of 150 contestants.
The team members are:
• McKenzie Chambers, Mead, CO
• Stacey Guthard, Litchfield
• Shellie Intermill, Alliance
• Trey Kellner, Stockton, KS
• Clint Mickey, Aurora
• Tom Murphy, Elkhorn
• Jay Nordhausen, Ogallala
• Mitch Novacek, Schuyler
• Todd Ostermiller, La Grange, WY
• Carrie Saur, Gillette, WY
• Jason Star, North Platte
The team is coached by:
• Matt Ellicott, UNL Livestock Judging Coach.
UNL Livestock Judging Team Wins 2nd Annual Cattlemen's Classic.
On February 21st, the UNL Livestock Judging Team competed at the 2nd Annual Nebraska Cattlemen's Classic livestock judging contest. This marked the second year that the University of Nebraska sponsored the all cattle contest with Nebraska Cattlemen's Classic in Kearney, NE. A change in the building location didn't keep the contest from growing. The second-ever contest proved to be a success as 170 contestants participated from four different states. Thirteen different colleges and fifteen different counties or FFA chapters made up the total contestant pool. In all, more than 220 people competed or helped with the contest this year and cattle for the ten classes were provided from 18 different producers.
Contest wise, UNL had a contest leading performance collecting the top two spots in the senior college division. In placings, McKenzie Chambers was 1st, Jay Nordhausen was 3rd, Todd Ostermiller was 4th, Mitch Novacek was 5th and Trey Kellner was 10th. In reasons, Jay Nordhausen was 1st, Todd Ostermiller was 2nd, Trey Kellner was 3rd, Shellie Intermill was 4th, McKenzie Chambers was 5th, Jason Star was 9th and Tom Murphy was 10th. Overall, Jay Nordhausen was the High Individual, Todd Ostermiller was 2nd, McKenzie Chambers was 3rd, Trey Kellner was 4th, and Mitch Novacek was 7th. The two teams both finished 1st and 2nd in placings and reasons respectively, paving the way to being named Champion and Reserve Champion Teams.
The team will look to finish the spring season strong on March 18th at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
The team members are:
• McKenzie Chambers, Mead, CO
• Stacey Guthard, Litchfield
• Shellie Intermill, Alliance
• Trey Kellner, Stockton, KS
• Clint Mickey, Aurora
• Tom Murphy, Elkhorn
• Jay Nordhausen, Ogallala
• Mitch Novacek, Schuyler
• Todd Ostermiller, La Grange, WY
• Carrie Saur, Gillette, WY
• Jason Star, North Platte
The team is coached by:
• Matt Ellicott, UNL Livestock Judging Coach.
Livestock Judging Team Wins 2009 Iowa Beef Expo
On February 8th, 2009 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the Iowa Beef Expo in Des Moines, IA. Todd Ostermiller led the team in placings, posting an impressive 478 points out of a possible 500. This performance paved the way to UNL being named Champion Team at the 2009 Iowa Beef Expo.
In addition to Todd, Trey Kellner finished 16th in placings and the team finished 1st overall in placings. In reasons the team had consistent day placing four members in the top 20. Shellie Intermill was 11th, Todd Ostermiller was 13th, Jay Nordhausen was 15th and Trey Kellner was 19th. In reasons the team was 4th. Todd Ostermiller led the team with a 2nd place overall individual finish and Trey Kellner was 13th overall.
The team has two remaining contests to finish the spring season. February 21st the team will compete at the 2nd Annual Cattlemen's Classic and on March 18th the team will compete at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
The team members are:
• McKenzie Chambers, Mead, CO
• Stacey Guthard, Litchfield
• Shellie Intermill, Alliance
• Trey Kellner, Stockton, KS
• Clint Mickey, Aurora
• Tom Murphy, Elkhorn
• Jay Nordhausen, Ogallala
• Mitch Novacek, Schuyler
• Todd Ostermiller, La Grange, WY
• Carrie Saur, Gillette, WY
• Jason Star, North Platte
The team is coached by:
• Matt Ellicott, UNL Livestock Judging Coach.
UNL Livestock Judging Team Places 5th in Sioux Falls, SD
On January 31, 2009 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the Sioux Empire Farm Show in Sioux Falls, SD. UNL recorded a second straight top five finish in as many contests.
In sheep judging, the team finished 3rd. Individually, Trey Kellner finished tied for 10th high individual overall. In swine judging, the team finished 4th. Individually, Trey Kellner finished 10th high individual overall. In Cattle judging, the team finished 6th. Individually, McKenzie Chambers finished 11th high individual overall. In oral reasons, the team finished 3rd. Individually, Trey Kellner placed 8th and Shellie Intermill placed 11th.
Overall the team finished 5th, Jay Nordhausen led the team placing 8th and McKenzie Chambers was 15th high individual overall.
The team members are:
• McKenzie Chambers, Mead, CO
• Stacey Guthard, Litchfield
• Shellie Intermill, Alliance
• Trey Kellner, Stockton, KS
• Clint Mickey, Aurora
• Tom Murphy, Elkhorn
• Jay Nordhausen, Ogallala
• Mitch Novacek, Schuyler
• Todd Ostermiller, La Grange, WY
• Carrie Saur, Gillette, WY
• Jason Star, North Platte
The team is coached by:
• Matt Ellicott, UNL Livestock Judging Coach.
National Western Stock Show in Denver, CO
On January 16, 2009 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the National Western Stock Show in Denver, CO. This served as the first national contest for the 2009 team. UNL was well represented with several top finishes.
In Sheep judging, the team finished 5th. Jay Nordhausen finished 5th overall. In Swine judging, the team finished 6th. Individually, Jay Nordhausen finished 6th. In Cattle judging, the team finished 6th. Individually, Shellie Intermill was 5th overall and Jay Nordhausen placed 9th in beef reasons. In Oral Reasons, the team finished 6th. Individually, Jay Nordhausen placed 9th and Shellie Intermill placed 11th overall.
Overall the team finished 5th out of 23 schools. This accomplishment marks the first time UNL has placed in the top five overall at the National Western in more than 17 years. Jay Nordhausen led the team with a 5th place finish and Shellie Intermill placed 6th out of 112 total contestants.
In the carload contest five UNL students had a great day placing pens of cattle. Stacey Guthard led the team with a 17th place finish and Tom Murphy was 23rd out of 112 contestants. Overall the team finished 5th out of 23 schools in the carload contest.
The team members are:
• McKenzie Chambers, Mead, CO
• Stacey Guthard, Litchfield
• Shellie Intermill, Alliance
• Trey Kellner, Stockton, KS
• Clint Mickey, Aurora
• Tom Murphy, Elkhorn
• Jay Nordhausen, Ogallala
• Mitch Novacek, Schuyler
• Todd Ostermiller, La Grange, WY
• Carrie Saur, Gillette, WY
• Jason Star, North Platte
The team is coached by:
• Matt Ellicott, UNL Livestock Judging Coach.
The University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team is currently coached by Matt Ellicott.
2008 University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team
The 2008 University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team finished a strong fall campaign highlighted by UNL being named Champion Team at AK-SAR-BEN and Shantille Kruse being recognized as an Honorable Mention All-American Livestock Judge in the deepest group ever. As well, the team was rewarded with numerous other achievements during the fall season.
Team members finishing their judging careers include Annie Doerr, Creighton; Kyle Dorn, Adams; Garret Koester, Wellfleet; Shantille Kruse, Tecumseh; Roger Morgan, Burwell; Tony Roubal, North Bend; and Jason Warner, Arapahoe.
The team started their fall season a week prior to classes beginning on campus. Lincoln, NE was the site of the team's first fall contest. On Saturday, August 24, 2008 the team competed at the 3rd Annual Nebraska State Fair Swine Contest. UNL finished 2nd with Jason Warner leading the team with a 5th place overall finish. Three other team members finished in the top ten including Annie Doerr 7th, Kyle Dorn 9th and Garret Koester 10th. The team then looked to increase their cattle judging experience for the fall run making UNL's first ever trip to an all cattle contest in northeast Wyoming.
On September 12, 2008 the team competed at the Direct Line Genetics Cattle Contest in Huglet, WY. Roger Morgan had a team leading day in the overall competition placing 3rd. In placings Roger Morgan was 5th, Jason Warner was 8th, Annie Doerr was 9th and Shantille Kruse was 11th. The team finished 2nd in beef cattle placings. In reasons Annie Doerr was 4th, Jason Warner was 5th, Roger Morgan was 8th, Kyle Dorn was 9th and Tony Roubal was 10th. UNL finished 2nd overall in team reasons. Overall Roger Morgan was 3rd High Individual, Jason Warner was 5th and Annie Doerr was 6th. The team finished 2nd overall.
On September 19th, the team traveled to El Dorado, KS where they competed in the first ever Butler Flinthills Classic Judging Contest held by Butler Community College. The team was 7th in sheep, 3rd in swine, 6th in beef, 6th in reasons and 6th overall. Individually, several team members had top twenty placings in several categories. Before traveling back to Lincoln the team also judged on September 20th at the Mid-America Classic in Wichita, KS. The team had another solid day placing 5th overall. The team was 5th in sheep, 6th in swine, 5th in beef, 5th in reasons and 6th overall. Individually Kyle Dorn placed 5th in cattle and Jason Warner placed 11th in oral reasons and 15th overall.
On September 27, 2008 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the First Annual AK-SAR-BEN Livestock Judging Contest in Omaha, NE. UNL had an outstanding day on the way to being named Champion Team. In Sheep judging, the team finished 2nd. Shantille Kruse was 2nd overall and Tony Roubal finished 10th. In Swine judging, the team finished 1st. Individually, Kruse was 5th and Roger Morgan was 10th. In Cattle judging, the team finished 2nd. Individually, Roubal was 4th, Kruse was 7th and Annie Doerr was 9th. In Oral Reasons, the team finished 1st. Individually, Shantille Kruse was 3rd overall, Doerr was 5th and Roubal was 7th. The team finished 1st out of seven overall. Individually Shantille Kruse finished 2nd high individual overall, Tony Roubal was 3rd and Annie Doerr was 14th.
On October 31st the team traveled to Kansas City, MO to compete in the American Royal contest. The team finished 13th in Cattle, 12th in Swine, 5th in Sheep, 12th in Reasons, and 11th Overall.
On November 17, 2008 the University of Nebraska Livestock Judging Team competed at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, KY. This contest served as the final national contest for the 2008 team. Shantille Kruse was named Honorable Mention to the All-American Team. In Performance Sheep judging the team finished 3rd and individually Annie Doerr finished 25th. In Swine judging the team finished 15th. In Cattle judging the team was 10th. In Reasons, the team finished 12th. Overall the team finished 14th out of 27 teams. Kyle Dorn led the team with a 34th place finish.
As the 2008 team season comes to a close, the memory of the accomplishments, travels, livestock contacts and friendships gained will remain with the team members for many years to come. Each team member was recognized at least once during the season for their judging talents in a contest. All team members represented the UNL Animal Science Department as a confident and strong program for all to admire. I, along with Ben Williams, am very proud of this year's solid outcome. All members of the livestock judging program would like to recognize the support and generosity of the contributors and sponsors that make this possible each and every season. A sincere thank you from the UNL Livestock Judging Team goes out to the major sponsors the Kimmel Foundation, Nebraska Farm Bureau Services, Inc., and the Nebraska Cattlemen's Research and Education Foundation.
Looking to the future, the junior team is excited to start their season on December 20th at the Express Ranches Contest in Yukon, OK. Team members include Jimmi Cable, Pukwana, SD; McKenzie Chambers, Mead, CO; Stacey Guthard, Litchfield; Shellie Intermill, Alliance; Trey Kellner, Stockton, KS; Clint Mickey, Aurora; Tom Murphy, Lincoln; Jay Nordhausen, Ogallala; Mitch Novacek, David City; Todd Ostermiller, La Grange, WY; Carrie Saur, Gillette, WY; and Jason Star, North Platte. It should be an exciting upcoming year for the team! The team is coached by Matt Ellicott.