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Brooke Arce, a 16-year-old homeschooler and dual-enrolled student, is passionate about agriculture and raising Boer goats in Florida. Brooke Arce Hi! My name is Brooke Arce, and I'm 18 years old. I'm currently a Senior in high school and am homeschooled. In addition to being homeschooled, I'm also dual-enrolled at IRSC, where I can challenge myself academically and get a head start on my college education. Outside of school, I spend a lot of my time outdoors, and I have a deep passion for showing livestock, with Boer goats being my absolute favorite. I've been raising and showing Boer goats for 9 years, and I've been a member of JABGA for 7 of those years. Being a part of JABGA has given me the chance to connect with other young people who share the same interests and has helped me expand my knowledge in the livestock industry. It has also taught me countless life lessons that I carry with me every day. My mom and I run a small herd of Boer goats in Fellsmere, FL, where we carefully manage and care for our goats. Along with showing livestock, I also love spending time hunting and fishing with my family. I am incredibly passionate about agriculture, with the ultimate goal of becoming a small ruminate and equine reproduction specialist. I'm excited to continue learning and growing, both in my academic studies and extracurricular activities. I am committed to expanding my knowledge and skills, not only in the livestock industry but specifically within the Boer goat industry!!

Discover the ABGA Sanctioned Show Program, promoting Boer goat exhibitions. View the Sanctioned Show Rules and application to ensure compliance. Ennoblement points are awarded post-show results submission. Join us in celebrating quality Boer goats while adhering to established guidelines. Sanctioned Shows Discover the ABGA Sanctioned Show Program, promoting Boer goat exhibitions. View the Sanctioned Show Rules and application to ensure compliance. Ennoblement points are awarded post-show results submission. Join us in celebrating quality Boer goats while adhering to established guidelines. Sanctioned Show Rules Jump to sections: View Sanctioned Show Rules Sanctioned Show Application The Sanctioned Show Program is designed to encourage the exhibition, marketing and promotion of ABGA percentage, purebred, and full blood Boer goats. Any show receiving ABGA sanctioning must be open to all ABGA registered Boer goats that meet the requirements of the ABGA show rules. Ennoblement points earned at ABGA Sanctioned shows will not be awarded until after the show results are received at the ABGA office. The American Boer Goat Association, its officers, directors, agents, employees, and volunteers (hereafter collectively known as “ABGA”) shall not be held responsible for any loss, injury, or damage in connection with, arising out of, or incident to the above show. I further and hereby expressly waive all rights to claim against ABGA, and release ABGA from any liability whatsoever with respect to any injury to person, damage to, or loss of property from any cause whatsoever (expressly including ABGA’s negligence). ABGA Sanctioned Shows will abide by and remain in accordance with the ABGA Sanctioned Show Rules and have an updated copy of the ABGA Rules and Regulations available if any problem or question should arise during the show. ABGA Sanctioned Shows will submit a copy of scheduled classes and applicable entity rules to ABGA, per the ABGA Rules and Regulations. See Rule 1400 (I) v, provide an ABGA approved judge to judge the show, and report the judge’s name to the ABGA office no less than 30 days prior to the entry deadline. Original registration certificates are required, except that a copy of a registration application, stamped with the date received by ABGA, can be accepted for kids less than 3 months of age. Animals over the age of 3 months must be verified as registered in the ABGA database at the time of the above show. An animal that may be verified as registered in the web-based database of ABGA will be accepted in lieu of a registration certificate. Verification must be provided by the exhibitor in either digital or print to the show secretary. JABGA ownership must be verified using the transfer history on the animal pedigree if the certificate is not provided. Goats registered in a frozen or suspended account are ineligible to exhibit in an ABGA Sanctioned Show. In accordance with the ABGA Sanctioned Show Rules, the Show Secretary must submit show results to the ABGA office to be verified within 30 days of the conclusion of the show. The report must include the following: class, list of animals in class with placings, animal’s name, animal’s (ABGA) registration number, identifying tattoos (left and right), or microchip number, and the owner’s name. ABGA has the right to decline or revoke sanctioning for this show at any time. The ABGA office will send notification of sanctioning approval or denial to the Show Secretary. This notification may be made to the Show Secretary’s email address, if provided. Sanctioned Show Application The ABGA board voted unanimously to change the procedure for sanctioned show ribbons, effective January 1, 2026 . The key updates are: Prize Pack Options Expanded – Shows will now have more flexibility to select awards that best suit their exhibitors and events, including both traditional ribbon packs and new vinyl banner options. Pass-Through Cost Model – The cost of sanctioned show ribbons and shipping will no longer be covered by ABGA but instead be passed through to individual shows. Prize Packs Optional – While the cost of prize packs will no longer be covered by ABGA, it is not mandatory that you order a prize pack from the ABGA. No Sanctioned Show Fee – This change allows ABGA to reduce expenses and maintain a balanced budget while continuing to avoid adding any sanctioned show fees. Discounted Pricing Secured – ABGA has worked with vendors to ensure affordable options for show organizers. Click the button below to view the catalog outlining the expanded prize pack offerings and the cost for each option. View Awards Catalog Download PDF application About ABGA Sanctioned Shows Hosting an ABGA Sanctioned Show is a great way to promote Boer goats and connect with breeders and exhibitors nationwide. Review the steps to complete your application and ensure your event meets all ABGA sanctioning requirements. Sanctioned Shows News & Updates Mar 17, 2023 ABGA Broadens Horizons with Wether Incentive Program Ahead of National Show Discover the Boer Goat Advantage (BGA) program by the American Boer Goat Association, offering cash prizes and incentives for wether goat breeders at national and regional shows! Read More First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last

Rebecca's love for agriculture began in the eighth grade. That's when she also began to show breeding goats. Rebecca Sullivan Agriculture wasn’t part of my upbringing—my family had no ties to the industry. But everything changed in eighth grade when I took my first agriculture class. That single experience sparked a passion that quickly grew into a commitment: I began showing breeding goats and immersed myself in the FFA, where I discovered a deep love for leadership, community, and agricultural advocacy. Now attending Tarleton State University, I’m majoring in Civil Engineering with a minor in Environmental Engineering. I actively serve as an officer in three engineering organizations on campus, blending my technical interests with my agricultural roots. Outside of academics and the show ring, I enjoy reading, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with friends. Today, I’m honored to serve as the secretary for the JABGA Board of Directors. This role allows me to continue growing as a leader while helping shape the future of an organization that has given so much to me. I’m excited to help inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders and contribute to the continued success of JABGA.

Lynnzae Van Wyk Hi everyone! My name is Lynnzae Van Wyk. I am 16 years old, and I live in St. James, MN, where my family and I raise and show Boer goats. I have been involved in the Boer goat industry for over 11 years. Over this time, I've had the opportunity to raise and show registered Boer goats while building lifelong friendships and developing leadership skills through JABGA. Outside of showing, I enjoy mentoring younger exhibitors and staying involved in school as Class President, a National Honor Society member, and Student Council member. I am excited to represent Area 2 and look forward to connecting with members, promoting youth involvement, and helping make our association even stronger.

Get to know ABGA National Show Judge, Anton Ward. Anton Ward Anton Ward Get to know ABGA National Show Judge, Anton Ward. Anton Ward, a seasoned livestock judge and agricultural expert, was born and raised in the province of Tranvaal, now known as Limpopo Province, in South Africa. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Animal Science from Pretoria Technicon, which laid the foundation for his extensive career in livestock judging and animal husbandry. Anton moved to the United States in 1993, initially settling in North Carolina, where he lived until 2014 before relocating to Southwest Missouri, where he currently resides. Anton has been judging livestock since 1988, a passion that has seen him traverse numerous arenas across the United States and Canada. His expertise in the field led to his involvement with the American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) from its inception. Over the years, Anton has judged many major livestock shows, demonstrating his profound knowledge and commitment to the industry. His skills and experience have also been instrumental in training most of the early Canadian judges and many in the U.S., ensuring high standards and consistency in livestock judging. Notably, Anton has judged the prestigious ABGA National Show seven times, with his eighth appearance slated for 2024. In addition to raising Boer goats, Anton has also been dedicated to raising beef cattle since 2003. His lifelong dedication to livestock, combined with his extensive experience and training, makes Anton Ward a respected and influential figure in the agricultural community. For more information or questions, contact Rodney Wilson, National Show Chair, region.10@abga.org

Small Changes, Bigger Opportunities: 2026-2027 Loud & Proud Regional Show Series By: Maddie Reis, JABGA President 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! Related Posts

Meet Lizzie Hefner, a 17-year-old Boer goat enthusiast from Indiana, dedicated to youth leadership and community involvement. Lizzie Hefner Hi, I'm Lizzie Hefner and I’m from Lebanon, Indiana! My family raise a smaller herd of Boer goats, and you can usually find me in the barn alongside my dad, Brian, or my younger sister, Addy. For the past eight years, I've been actively involved in the Boer goat industry through raising, showing across the country, and serving in leadership roles. The relationships I've built and the experiences I've gained have had a indescribable impact on my life. One of my greatest joys of being involved in the show stock industry is connecting with junior members! I love encouraging young exhibitors, sharing what I've learned, and watching them develop confidence, friendships, and a passion for the agriculture industry. This fall, I'll be attending Oklahoma State University as a McKnight Scholar, where I'll pursue degrees in Agricultural Communications and Political Science. I have a deep appreciation for the American agriculture industry and believe one of the best ways to give back to the community that raised me is through thoughtful advocacy and meaningful communication. My goal is to help bridge the gap between producers and consumers by sharing our story with honesty, accessibility, and purpose. Whether you have a question about goats, want to visit about the livestock industry, or simply want to say hello, I'd love to meet you! Don't hesitate to reach out and chat!

Get to know JABGA National Show Judge, Terry Burks Terry Burks Terry Burks Get to know JABGA National Show Judge, Terry Burks Terry is a retired Professor of English Studies from Chifeng University in The People’s Republic of China. Prior to that, he was employed by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture in the Division of Show and Fair Promotion where he served as the educational coordinator and worked as a federal livestockgrader. Terry taught adult agriculture for 8 years in the Kentucky Community College system and was also the owner of Dynasty Club Lambs & Meat Goats. Terry received his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in the area of Animal Science from Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Terry Burks Terry has judged over 1200 Junior and open livestock shows in 43 states. Some of his shows include Houston, San Antonio, Fort Worth, Dallas, San Angelo, Austin, The North American International, The American Royal, The National Western, The Great Western, The Cow Palace, The Dixie National, Aksarben, Tulsa, the Oklahoma Youth Expo, The Arizona National, The Pennsylvania Farm Show, The Keystone International, The Atlantic National, The Western Bonanza, The Grand Stand, The Fall Classic and the Belt Buckle Bonanza. He has judged State Fairs in 28 different states and has also judged numerous County, Regional and Jackpot shows nationwide. Terry has served on numerous judging committees across the US including the National 4-H, Jr. College and Sr. College Contests at the NAILE, as well as serving as the sheep/goat chairman for the National FFA Livestock Judging CDE. Terry and his wife Alice live in Bowling Green, Kentucky. For more information or questions, contact Rodney Wilson, National Show Chair, region.10@abga.org

Region 5 Director Paige Gunderson Back to Board of Directors Paige Gunderson Vice President, Region 5 Email Bio coming soon. Previous Director Next Director

The Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) is now accepting proposals from qualified venues and organizations to host the 2025–2026 JABGA Regional Show Series. This national call seeks experienced livestock show organizers, fairgrounds, and youth livestock associations to partner in delivering high-quality Boer goat show experiences across the U.S. JABGA Regional Show Series Request for Proposals The Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) is now accepting proposals from qualified venues and organizations to host the 2025–2026 JABGA Regional Show Series. This national call seeks experienced livestock show organizers, fairgrounds, and youth livestock associations to partner in delivering high-quality Boer goat show experiences across the U.S. '25 - '26 JABGA Regional Show Series – Request for Proposals Release Date: July 15, 2025 Proposal Deadline: August 15, 2025 Announcement of Selected Hosts: September 1, 2025 Overview: The Junior American Boer Goat Association invites proposals from qualified organizations to host a 2025-26 JABGA Regional Show . The purpose of this RFP is to ensure high-quality, accessible, and well-managed show experiences for junior exhibitors across the United States. Parties Responsibilities: ABGA Responsibilities Minimum 1 ABGA Staff Standard Regional Awards Pack Regional Show Judge Selection Regional Show Judge’s Fees and Travel Marketing and Promotion in conjunction with host Recognition of JABGA Regional Show Series Sponsors Host Responsibilities Facility Volunteers Contest Judges Minimum of 2 per contest, Public Speaking, Sales Talk, Fitting Contest Judges for these contests must not have connections participating in the Regional Show Show Volunteers Additional awards or prizes above the standard Regional Awards Pack ABGA will provide our sponsorship discounts if applicable Facilitate Banquet Meal If additional Open Shows are held in conjunction with Regional ABGA will cover half the travel expenses if a regional show judge is used for both shows Hosts will utilize the Showman.app for both regional and open show entries if desired ABGA must have admin access 50% - Regional Show Entry fees will be returned to ABGA Open Show and Facility fees collected through Showman will be returned to host Open Show Sponsors will not be recognized during the JABGA Regional Show Standard Regional Awards Pack Buckles: 4 Champion Market Showmanship 4 Champion Breeding Showmanship Champion Market Goat Champion Wether Dam Champion Percentage Doe Champion Fullblood Doe Champion Buck Show Banners: 16 Champion and Reserve Showmanship Top 5 Market Goat Top 5 Wether Dam 6 Champion and Reserve Breeding Show 3 Bred and Owned Champions Contest Banners: 20 Top 5 Public Speaking 20 Top 5 Sales Talk 20 Top 5 Goat Judging 20 Top 5 Skillathon 8 Top 2 Overall Division Top 5 High Point Overall 12 Fitting Contest Additional Awards: Top 5 High Point Overall Eligibility: Proposals may be submitted by: State or regional Boer goat associations Agricultural exposition centers or county/state fairgrounds Livestock event coordinators or youth livestock organizations Required Proposal Content: Each proposal must include: Facility Overview Name, address, and description of facility Photos and/or floor plans Arena capacity, pen space, wash racks, restrooms, RV hook-ups, etc. Accessibility for trailers and parking Proposed Show Dates Preferred dates (must fall within September 30, 2025 – May 15, 2026 window) Contingency dates, if available Lodging and Amenities Nearby hotels with rates and availability Food options (on-site or nearby) Camping or RV accommodations Staffing and Volunteers Local support staff and show volunteers Experience with livestock or youth shows Budget and Sponsorship Proposed event budget Local sponsorship commitments or support letters Letters of Support From local 4-H/FFA leaders, ag boards, or sponsors Submission Instructions: Submit completed proposals to: Email: criley@abga.org Subject Line: 2025-26 Regional Show Proposal – [Location Name] Format: PDF preferred (max 15 pages, excluding appendices) Selection Criteria: See Appendix B – Evaluation Rubric Appendix B: JABGA Regional Show Bid Evaluation Rubric Criteria Points Description Facility Quality & Suitability 25 pts Clean, accessible facility with sufficient space for show rings, pens, parking, restrooms, and wash racks. Financial Plan & Sponsorship 25 pts Clear, sustainable budget with sponsorships and/or local funding support. Geographic Representation 20 pts Location fills a geographic gap and improves accessibility for surrounding regions. Experience & Staffing 15 pts Demonstrated experience hosting youth or livestock events. Qualified volunteers/staff identified. Community Support 15 pts Letters of support, community engagement, lodging, and amenities. Total Possible Points: 100 Optional Bonus Points (up to 5 points): Innovative youth engagement or educational components (e.g., clinics, leadership seminars) Evaluation Committee: ABGA Executive Director ABGA Director of Community Engagement JABGA Youth Coordinator Regional Show Committee Chair & Co-Chair JABGA President JABGA Vice President Click to download ↓ Request for Proposal - Regional Shows .pdf Download PDF • 167KB Related Posts Jan 16, 2025 UPDATES: Area 2 and Area 4 Regional Shows Location and date changes to upcoming JABGA Regional Shows. Oct 25, 2024 2024 - 2025 Regional Show Series: Public Speaking Topics The Public Speaking contest encourages participants to develop communication skills while sharing knowledge about the Boer goat industry and breed. Oct 9, 2024 JABGA Area 5 Regional Show Update A change has been made to both the location and date of the Area 5 Regional Show.

The JABGA Board of Directors selected 2022-2023 officers as part of their annual Face-to-Face meeting on July 7, 2022. Congratulations to the 2022-2023 JABGA Board of Directors Officers! The JABGA Board of Directors selected 2022-2023 officers as part of their annual Face-to-Face meeting on July 7, 2022. Drumroll, please! The JABGA Board of Directors selected 2022-2023 officers as part of their annual Face-to-Face meeting on July 7, 2022. Your 2022-2023 JABGA officers are: President: Cecelia Knott Vice President: Logan Hollen Treasurer: Natalye Scholl Secretary: Helena Almli Reporter: Madison Reis Congratulations to these JABGA Board members! #JABGA #news Related Posts