WIU Livestock Judging Team Clinches National Championship Title

The Livestock Judging Team from Western Illinois University (WIU) has achieved significant success this season, culminating in their recognition as the 2026 National Western Stock Show Senior College Champion Team. This accolade was announced following their remarkable performances at two major competitions: the Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City and the National Western Stock Show in Denver.

At the National Western Stock Show, held in January, the Leathernecks showcased their exceptional skills by securing the Champion Team Overall title. The team excelled in various categories, earning High Team Cattle, second High Team Sheep & Goats, and fourth High Team Reasons. These achievements firmly establish WIU as a leading institution within the realm of collegiate livestock judging.

Individually, four members of the WIU team distinguished themselves by finishing in the top ten at this prestigious competition. Carter Hoge emerged as a standout competitor, placing third in High Individual Overall, third in Cattle, fifth in Reasons, and fifth in Sheep & Goats. Following closely behind, Ally Loosen secured the fifth spot in High Individual Overall, achieving top-10 finishes in Swine, Feedlot Cattle, Cattle, and Reasons.

The team’s success continued with Rob Rogers, who placed third in Sheep & Goats and eighth Overall, while Marcus Eastridge finished fifth in Cattle and 10th Overall. Maggie Goodson also made her mark with multiple top-10 finishes, including fourth place in Cattle Reasons and seventh in Feedlot Cattle.

Earlier in the season at the Cattlemen’s Congress, held in December, WIU’s Livestock Judging Team placed fifth High Team Overall. Their performance included notable finishes such as third High Team Swine, fifth High Team Cattle, sixth High Team Sheep & Goats, and sixth High Team Reasons. During this event, Hoge also earned recognition for his individual performance, finishing ninth in High Individual Overall and placing 10th in Cattle.

The accomplishments of the WIU Livestock Judging Team highlight their dedication and skill, reinforcing the university’s reputation in agricultural education and competitive livestock evaluation. With their recent successes, the team looks poised for continued excellence in future competitions.