KMS FFA Sweeps Soils Team Titles, Qualifies Horse Judging Team for State

KERKHOVEN, Minn. - KMS Schools FFA teams delivered a day worth celebrating Monday, Oct. 5, in New London, with first-place finishes for both varsity and JV soils teams, a state-qualifying performance in varsity horse judging, and a first place finish for JV horse judging. The results highlighted students’ ability to evaluate animals and assess soil conditions across two contests requiring careful observation and agricultural knowledge.

The varsity horse judging team placed fifth out of 22 schools, securing a spot at state. Julia M, Adele F and Mason K contributed the qualifying scores, with Lucy F and Emily H serving as alternates. It was an excellent result in a field of more than 20 schools, giving the horse judging students a team achievement to celebrate and a state contest ahead.

The JV horse team placed first in competition. Individual placement saw Emyrsn L in second, Royce S fourth, and Harley S fifth.

Horse judging challenged students to evaluate classes using the actual animals and their conformation, assess riding patterns and answer knowledge questions. The contest required more than recognizing an impressive animal: students also had to apply their understanding of structure and performance. Those different components made the team’s fifth-place finish a rewarding accomplishment.

The soils teams swept the varsity and JV team titles among eight participating schools. Students judged three soil pits, identifying the depth of soil horizons, determining soil texture and evaluating limitations for land use and building. They also determined slope and water-holding capacity and made fertilizer recommendations, connecting their judging work to practical decisions about how land can be used.

Kylen led the varsity team with a first-place individual finish. Shane F placed third, Charlie M. fifth and Cooper P. eighth, giving the team four finishers in the top eight. Alaina finished 18th. Together, those individual performances accompanied a first-place varsity team result and added to a strong day for our FFA students.

The JV team brought plenty to celebrate as well, with all five listed competitors finishing in the top seven. Wyatt R. placed second, Freddy H. third and Eero N fourth. Johnny M finished sixth, and Alissa R. took seventh, rounding out the JV team’s first-place performance.