A shared passion for livestock judging
A shared passion for livestock judging
The Ohio State Livestock Judging Team has a long-standing history within the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES), contributing to the university’s legacy of excellence in animal sciences education. Since its inception, the program has consistently produced skilled livestock evaluators, influential industry leaders, and a strong alumni network that continues to support and mentor new generations of students.
Ohio State has the second-most teams in the history of the International Collegiate Livestock Judging Contest and ranks among the elite in contest wins. Since 1904, the team has won the National Championship nine times, ranking it among the Top 5 winningest teams in the nation.
Regulars in the winner's circle
Coach Matt Chaney, left, with the team at the National Western Stock show in Denver, Colorado. Today, the Livestock Judging Team continues to build excellence and leaders in the livestock industry. Coach Matt Chaney, who joined the program in 2023, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for student development. Raised in Maryland, Chaney’s livestock judging background includes involvement on judging teams at Hutchison Community College and South Dakota State University and coaching at North Dakota State University (NDSU). His experience assisting with NDSU’s judging program ignited his desire to coach and mentor young livestock evaluators.
“Ohio’s vast opportunities for youth to be involved in agriculture drew me here,” Chaney said. “Ohio is one of the best states regarding the number of shows, number of quality livestock breeders, and the quality of youth programs.”
Growth, support, success
Chaney’s primary goals for Ohio State’s program include growth in numbers, stakeholder support, and student success. His vision extends beyond competition results. He aims to build a program that fosters personal and professional development. “At the core, I just want good people,” he says. “I want students who have an appetite to learn, push themselves, and want to be part of something bigger than themselves. The opportunities to grow while on this team are endless.”
Erin Pope, far right, with the team at Cattlemen's Congress last year.For many team members, interest in livestock judging stemmed from their agricultural upbringings. Erin Pope, an animal sciences major and a 2024 team member from Gallipolis, Ohio, grew up exhibiting livestock in Ohio 4-H and FFA. Still, she was initially hesitant about joining the team. After encouragement from her friends, Pope took the leap and discovered an experience that shaped her college journey. She’s glad she did.
“Being part of the Livestock Judging Team has truly enriched my life in ways I never imagined,” Pope said. “Each opportunity to judge livestock and visit farms across the country deepened my appreciation for this field. The knowledge and confidence I’ve gained from these experiences are invaluable. But what I treasure most are the memories and bonds formed with my teammates.”
Similarly, Matthew Koverman, an agriscience education major and 2024 team member from Minford, Ohio, recalls growing up in a livestock family, traveling across the country to show cattle, and being inspired by those who judged competitions. The chance to improve his livestock evaluation skills, critical thinking, and public speaking were big draws for Koverman to join the team.
Matt Koverman, back center, with his teammates after the Purdue Boilermaker contest.“The team has certainly bettered my college experience,” Koverman said. “It has given me the chance to meet and listen to some pretty influential people within the livestock industry, including meeting some of my role models. It has helped me to better many skills, which will enhance my abilities as a future agricultural educator.”
Koverman and Pope emphasize that livestock judging is more than evaluating animals; it’s about developing lifelong skills and relationships.
“The best part about being on the team has definitely been the friendships I’ve developed with my teammates,” Koverman said. “It’s crazy to think that when we started, we only knew of each other, but by the time we walked off the floor at the National Contest in Louisville, it was clear that we were not just friends; we had become family.”
Pope agrees and would urge other Ohio State students to consider joining the team.
“I’d tell any prospective Ohio State student not to be afraid and take a chance to try something new,” Pope said. “I’ve gained so much more than just skills in livestock judging. We’ve all bonded, pushed each other to improve, and created a tight-knit team. When you step outside your comfort zone, you open the door to new experiences.”
Leading into the future
Beyond the individual benefits, the Ohio State Livestock Judging Team contributes to the broader livestock industry by preparing students to be future leaders. Whether they go on to manage farms, work in agribusiness, or advocate for the industry, alumni carry forward the lessons learned through judging.
“What excites me the most about coaching the team is knowing I have an opportunity to impact these students,” Chaney said. “It’s rewarding being able to help them apply for future jobs, provide networking opportunities, or help them chase new opportunities.”
The team primarily consists of junior and senior students. Each team competes for nearly a year, usually kicking off contests in January and wrapping up the season at the North American International Livestock Exposition in November. The 2024 team placed 13th overall at their final contest this fall.
With two years under his belt, Chaney looks forward to what’s ahead. The 2025 team just started their year, and he’s actively recruiting for the 2026 team. Chaney remains focused on expanding student opportunities, increasing participation, and continuing Ohio State’s tradition of excellence.
“I would never trade this opportunity here in Ohio,” Chaney said. “Not only do I want success for the program while I lead it, but I also want to bring back success for the alumni and stakeholders.”
