The Manatee County Junior Cattlemen (MCJA) are an outstanding group of kids that work year-round dedicating their efforts to the future of our industry. MCJA members exhibit and show animals and compete in various public speaking events across the country representing Manatee County, the State of Florida and the agriculture industry.
It’s not just about showing an animal in the county fair; MCJA members learn to keep records, they work to ensure the safety and success of their livestock, they earn money for college and they gain experience for their resumes and college applications that surpasses the norm. The youth involved in our agriculture industry are well-mannered, hard-working and impressive because of their ability to begin and end a project, showcase what they’ve learned and lead others through the same processes.
We are proud to have such outstanding future leaders in our organization, and their hard work speaks for itself. However, we’d be remiss if we didn’t share some of the exciting accolades our junior members have accomplished.
- Over the past 12 years, 11 of the exhibitors awarded “Grand Champion Steer” at the Manatee County Fair were/are Junior Cattlemen Association members.
- At the Florida State Fair, MJCA members have won the “Grand Champion Simmental Heifer” award from 2015 – present.
- Also at the state level, MJCA members remain at the top for competitions in Public Speaking, Quiz Bowl and Team Marketing, bringing home championships in 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017.
- A MJCA member has held a spot on the Florida Cattlemen’s Association state officer position from 2014 to present.
We are very proud of our youth and as an association, we strive to ensure a future for our way of life for generations to come.
(Photo image credit: http://eastwordbradenton.blogspot.com/2014/07/junior-members-of-manatee-county.html)