Samantha Moore: Junior Herdsman of the Year

This year’s winner has been a member of NALJA since 2014.  She has actively shown her bred and owned cattle and participated in junior activities at every Eastern Regional Junior Limousin Show and Limousin Nationals Show since then.  For three years she served on the NALJA board as a director and as secretary.  Supporting other juniors by helping with their cattle and helping them feel welcome to the association has been one of her favorite parts of showing cattle.  She has played an integral part in winning the Small State Herdsmanship Award for Virginia in 3 different years.

A New Chapter on the Horizon

Working with Limousin cattle has taught me more than I ever expected. They’ve shown me the value of patience, the reward of consistency, and the importance of resilience when things don’t always go as planned. In a way, they’ve been some of my best teachers—reminding me that growth takes time, progress comes through effort, and strength isn’t always loud, but steady and dependable.

A Season of Growth

This season, as we gather around the table or spend long hours together caring for our livestock, let’s remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Every day spent working together, whether it’s tackling a tough project or celebrating small wins, builds the foundation for the future.

Hard Work and Dedication

If you remember to keep genetics, nutrition and hard work your top priority, you can confidently walk away a winner in the ring and a successful cattleman, and THAT is something to be proud of.

Do Your Best And Forget The Rest

In the end, it’s not about how many times you fall, but how many times you get back up. Stay strong, stay focused, and never give up on what matters most.

Striving for Honor in the Pursuit of Excellence 

So, how do we “strive for honor in the pursuit of excellence?” Start by acknowledging that no one is perfect, and we all fall short. Speaking from experience, it takes a lot of effort to lay down your pride and support the successes of others when you yourself have failed.

Thank the Ones Who Got You Here

Written By Ryleigh Morris, NALJA Treasurer Reflecting on the path you’ve traveled so far, it becomes evident that you haven’t walked it alone. There have been countless individuals who have lent their support, wisdom, and encouragement, each one leaving an indelible mark on your journey. From the teachers who imparted knowledge and guidance, to the…

Work Hard and Seize the Opportunities

Each day God gives us on this earth is an opportunity to work hard and obtain our goals. Remember that “the best time to start a goal was yesterday. The next best time is now.”

Don’t Give Up

I challenge everyone to do their best and try to learn from their mistakes and I also challenge everyone not to give up when you mess up. You never know who is looking up to you.