Chambana Sun

Illinois 4-H members participated in the 2025 State Livestock Judging Contest on June 16 at the University of Illinois campus in Urbana. The event required young participants to judge cattle, hogs, and sheep based on breed characteristics, physical conformation, structure, and gain efficiency.

Shelby Carlson, a youth development educator with the University of Illinois Extension 4-H program, highlighted the broader skills developed through livestock judging. "These 4-H members amaze me with their abilities to sort and evaluate livestock. Illinois 4-H is committed to creating youth who are beyond ready for college and the workforce," Carlson said. She emphasized that participants build critical thinking, memory recall, teamwork, and communication skills.

Coaches focus on teaching technical judging skills while fostering positive youth development throughout the year. Carlson noted that many participants receive offers to judge at collegiate levels after high school graduation.

The top-performing teams in the Senior Division were Champaign County #1 in first place, Livingston/McLean/Woodford/Green County second, and Henry-Stark County third. Sam Nightingale from Henry-Stark County took first place among individuals in this division.

In the Junior Division team category, Knox County Gold Team secured first place followed by Shelby County and Christian County Team 1. Luke Thurman from Knox County was named top individual.

Selected members of the State 4-H livestock team will advance to national competition at the North American International Livestock Expo in November after additional tryouts this summer.

The Illinois 4-H Foundation and Illinois Farm Bureau support these teams as they prepare for national competitions.