Writer: Dr. Leslie Frenzel

Members of the 2017 Fightin’ Texas Aggie Meat Judging Team recently completed their intercollegiate meat judging careers. This is a proud moment for each of them because they have dedicated their hearts and souls to competing on a national stage to represent themselves and Texas A&M University for a demanding 15 months. While balancing their academics, practice, family, and social lives, the team was tenacious enough to finish an extremely successful competitive year as only one of three teams to finish in the top five at every contest. Team achievements were earned at each contest, the most notable being: high team in the Overall Beef division at the National Western Stock Show, second place honors in the Total Placings and Reasons divisions at the Southwestern contest, high team in the Beef Grading and Specifications divisions at the Iowa State Invitational, Top Five finishes in all divisions at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, high team in Beef Judging at the Eastern National contest, high team in the Specifications division at the American Royal, and third in Beef Grading at the International contest. Each of the team’s members also earned individual awards throughout the year which included 21 Top Ten finishes between all eight contests. The team had a tremendously successful year, and most importantly exemplified what it takes to be a cohesive and dedicated group who remains unfailing through times of intense competition.

Dear team,

There are really no words to express how appreciative I, and this university are of you for your outstanding representation of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Meat Judging program. Not only did we accomplish all of our personal and team goals, but we were able to extend our impact above and beyond because we, together, were harmonious in our efforts of ensuring this team was our priority. You should be extremely proud of what you have accomplished together over the last 15 months, and I ask that you cherish the memories forever. I have no doubts you all will become successful young people because I have been witness to how dedicated you are to your own and your peer’s personal and professional development. I hope you enjoyed the last year and a half; my time as your coach was truly unforgettable.

Dr. Leslie Frenzel

-30-

For more information regarding news from the Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, please contact Maggie Tucker at maggie.tucker@tamu.edu or (979) 845-1542.