UNG Students Excel at National Poultry Judging Competition

The USPOULTRY Foundation recently sponsored a prestigious competition where students showcased their skills in evaluating live birds, identifying breed defects, and assessing market products in accordance with U.S. Department of Agriculture standards. The event took place in Mississippi and attracted representatives from various educational institutions.

Team Composition and Coaching

The University of North Georgia (UNG) was represented by a talented team comprising April Cook, Grant Justus, Devin Self, and Conner Watson. Former participants Jacque Conner and Alyssa Foster returned to assist as coaches during the event. Dr. Linda Purvis, associate professor of biology, led the team through extensive preparation.

Success Through Preparation

April Cook, a freshman from Toccoa, Georgia, is pursuing an associate degree in agriculture-avian biology. She expressed her confidence in the team’s performance.

“I felt very well-prepared. We’ve been practicing since day one,” Cook said. “I have almost a year of hands-on experience.”

Team Spirit and Coach’s Pride

Dr. Purvis expressed her pride in the team’s collaborative spirit and hard work. “They all worked really well together as a team. I was very proud of how they all put in the effort and time and worked really hard,” she stated.

Networking Opportunities

The competition was not just about judging; it provided students the valuable chance to network with industry professionals during a crawfish boil hosted on the event’s first evening.

“It’s great to connect with people in the industry and get your name out there,” remarked Devin Self, a freshman from Hull, Georgia, pursuing an associate degree in agriculture-poultry science.

Long-Standing Passion for Poultry Judging

Conner Watson, a freshman from Watkinsville, Georgia, has been competing in poultry judging since the fifth grade. He shared his excitement about participating in the national competition, noting that students have the opportunity to compete at two national events where their scores contribute to the team total.

“I’ve gotten to see so many things in the industry early in my time as a student,” Watson said, emphasizing the importance of early exposure to the field.

Conclusion

The participation of UNG students in the poultry judging competition not only highlighted their skills but also showcased their dedication and readiness to make a mark in the poultry industry.

Source: University of North Georgia