With the 2026-2027 Loud and Proud regional show series just around the corner, here is a breakdown of all the additions and changes to make sure you are informed and set up for success. At our junior board face to face, we had lots of productive discussion about the regional shows as a whole, the individual contests, high point, and we all agreed on one thing: make it accessible, inclusive and fair to all!

 A new contest you will see this year is the “Demonstration Contest” where one JABGA member can perform a demonstration of their choice at regionals such as hoof trimming, clipping/fitting, wood/mech projects, floral arrangements, or other agriculture industry related topics. At nationals the demonstration topic must be goat related. You will have up to 10 minutes to perform your demo, and no live animals will be allowed. You can do both public speaking and the demonstration contest, but your highest score between the two will be used.

Another new award you will see is the “Supreme Breeding Animal” where your overall champion animals, both bucks and does from the percent and fullblood show, will come back to compete for “supreme breeding animal”. It is not required but highly encouraged you to participate as there is a $300 pay out and a banner you will receive.

We have also updated our fitting contest divisions to ensure fairness and that similar skill levels compete against each other. The divisions will now be level 1 (beginner), level 2 (experienced), level 3 (advanced), and the mentor class. The levels will be self-determined, but the youth liaison will have final say. Once you win your level you will be required to move to the next level until you reach level 3.

As we roll into the regional shows and the start of fall shows, we have an exciting announcement that you will want to keep in mind. We will be starting JABGA ennoblements, doe of excellence, and sire of merit. The requirements for these awards will match the ABGA requirements and will use the junior show acquired points but are separate awards from the ABGA awards. You will receive an award certificate, a letter from the JABGA president, and there will also be a notation on the registration certificate. These award programs will begin September 1, 2026, but any animal that has met the requirements at any point is eligible to be submitted for these awards.

Be sure to check the updated 2026-2027 regional show rules and other information about regionals on the JABGA website. Also be sure to check our social media for other updates and information as it comes out.

Good luck juniors!