Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association

08/27/2026

Wonderful tribute to Adam Massman.

08/23/2026

Entry Deadline is TODAY!

Sheep Show Entries: Early entries are due TODAY Sunday, August 23.

08/18/2026

🎓 Master Stockman Alumni Spotlight

Meet Ava Leibfried from Platteville, Wisconsin!

Ava is currently pursuing a degree in Agricultural Business with a Professional Sales Certificate at Iowa State University. Since receiving the Master Stockman Award in 2023, she has continued to build on the leadership and work ethic developed through the livestock industry. Ava remains involved in her family's Angus operation, Leibfried Land & Livestock, where they raise seedstock and commercial cattle while marketing direct-to-consumer Angus beef.

When asked why youth should apply for the Master Stockman Award, Ava shared:

"The Master Stockman Award recognizes the hard work you're already putting into the livestock industry, but it's also an opportunity to grow beyond the show ring. The application process encourages you to reflect on your experiences, build confidence in your own story, and connect with others who share the same passion for agriculture. Some of the relationships you make can last well beyond the award itself. One of the interviewers from my Master Stockman interview is now my roommate's dad—a reminder that this industry is built on relationships. You never know where one conversation or one opportunity will lead."

The Master Stockman Award celebrates young people who are committed to the livestock industry while helping prepare them for future opportunities. Ava's journey is just one example of how the skills, connections, and confidence gained through the program can continue to open doors long after the award is received.

08/08/2026

The Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association wishes all exhibitors and their families the very best of luck at the Wisconsin State Fair! Thank you for your dedication, hard work, and passion for the livestock industry.

We can't wait to see all you accomplish. Safe travels, and good luck!

08/07/2026

🎓 Master Stockman Alumni Spotlight

Meet Talena Sprecher from Lone Rock, Wisconsin!

Talena is currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration – Marketing at Western Illinois University, where she serves as President of the Women in Business organization. She remains actively involved in the livestock industry as the Social Media and Marketing Intern for the American Border Leicester Association, helps manage a flock of approximately 75 Border Leicester ewes, and is building her own club lamb operation. As her show career comes to a close this fall, she has also dedicated her time to mentoring young sheep and swine exhibitors while judging livestock shows whenever she has the opportunity.

When asked why youth should apply for the Master Stockman Award, Talena shared:

"If I have learned anything from my time on judging teams and at WIU, it's that your stockmanship abilities are what create relationships and opportunities in this industry. Without the skills this award challenged me to reflect on, I wouldn't have connected with the incredible people who have helped shape my journey. The application process itself is what makes it so valuable, it jump-starts the skills and mindset you'll need as you prepare for your future."

The Master Stockman Award is about much more than recognition; it's an opportunity to reflect, grow, and prepare for what's ahead. Thank you, Talena, for sharing your experience. We wish you the very best in this next chapter!

08/05/2026

🐑 It's official — entries for the Sheep Shows at the Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival are now OPEN! 🎉

Enter your sheep online here: https://showman.app/shows #/wisconsin-sheep-and-wool-festival-2eef

Our website will be updated later today with the link as well. We can't wait to see you and your flock in the show ring!

08/03/2026

A great, and easy tip from our WLBA friend Jon Gevelinger!

07/29/2026

2021 Master Stockman Recipient - Lauren Jones

After graduating from Darlington High School, I attended Oklahoma State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science. Since graduation, I've returned home to southwest Wisconsin, where I work full-time on my family's Hereford operation, Wildcat Cattle Company, managing daily cattle operations and supporting our TransOva Genetics satellite center. I also work as a sales technician for LiveAuctions.TV, traveling to livestock sales to support producers and help them market their cattle across the country.

Agriculture is a part of my everyday life. Between working on my family's seedstock operation, assisting with reproductive technologies through TransOva, and traveling to livestock sales with LiveAuctions.TV, I'm fortunate to be involved in several different areas of the agriculture industry while continuing to build relationships with producers across the country. The livestock industry has always been an integral part of my life, and I'm excited to continue building a career centered around this industry and the people who make it so special.

The Master Stockman Award is much more than a scholarship. The application encourages you to think critically about your experiences in the livestock industry and the management practices on your own operation. It gives you the opportunity to reflect on your leadership, knowledge, and the "why" behind the decisions made on your farm. The interview process, industry connections, and personal growth that come from completing the application are just as valuable as the scholarship itself. I encourage every eligible youth exhibitor to apply.

07/28/2026