BEST Junior Representatives
The OCA BEST committee consists of representatives appointed by the OCA Board of Directors, sanctioned show coordinators and five youth BEST representatives. BEST participants are encouraged to apply for the youth committee positions. BEST Jr. Representatives serve a two-year term and are selected through an application and interview process. Jr. Representative applications are due April 1 and interviews will be held in the spring leading up to the BEST banquet. Each BEST Jr. Representative selected will receive a $500 scholarship at the conclusion of their two-year term. The BEST Jr. Representative terms are staggered to provide leadership continuity for the BEST program. To apply, please fill out the application and return it by April 1 to the OCA office. If you have any questions contact the OCA office at (614) 873-6736 or by email at [email protected].
OCA BEST Junior Representative Responsibilities
- Foster and facilitate the BEST Connections Program
- Represent participants' interests as BEST committee member
- Be a positive role model to younger participants
- Promote the BEST program to fellow youth cattle exhibitors and their families
- Attend all regular committee meetings and provide input
- Attend all BEST sanctioned shows and assist with online sign-up and check-in
- Serve as emcee for the BEST Awards Banquet
*Junior committee applicants must be 16-21 years of age as of January 1, 2026 to apply.
BEST Connections Mentorship Program
New for the 2026–2027 season, the Ohio Cattlemen's Association is excited to introduce BEST Connections, a mentorship program designed to welcome first-year BEST exhibitors and their families into the BEST community. Through BEST Connections, new exhibitors will be paired with experienced BEST Junior Representatives who can provide guidance, answer questions and serve as a familiar face throughout the show season. Whether you're preparing for your first show, looking for advice on showmanship, or simply trying to navigate the BEST program, BEST Connections is here to help! The BEST Connections Mentorship Program offers two unique opportunities for exhibitors to learn, grow and build relationships throughout the show season. By connecting newer exhibitors with experienced Junior BEST Representatives and knowledgeable beef industry professionals, the program provides support both inside and outside the show ring..
Every great showman starts somewhere! Through BEST Connections, participating exhibitors will be paired with an experienced Junior BEST Representative who will serve as a mentor and familiar face throughout the BEST season. Junior BEST Representatives understand what it's like to prepare for shows, navigate a busy show weekend and compete in the ring. They're excited to share their experiences, answer questions and help newer exhibitors feel welcomed into the BEST community.
What can your Junior BEST Representative help with?
-Preparing for Show Weekend: Answering questions about what to bring, what to expect and how to prepare for your first BEST show.
-Navigating BEST Shows: Helping exhibitors understand check-in procedures, locate wash racks and show rings, and become familiar with show schedules.
-Understanding the BEST Program: Providing guidance on BEST rules, nominations, show entries, showmanship and other opportunities available throughout the season.
-Building Connections: Introducing new exhibitors to other BEST families, helping them make friends and encouraging them to get involved.
-Ongoing Support: Checking in throughout the season, answering questions and connecting exhibitors with additional resources when needed.
Whether you have a quick question before a show or need someone to help you find your way around the barns, your Junior BEST Representative is there to help make your BEST experience a positive one!
