Building the Next Generation of Cattlemen & Cattlewomen:

How Showing Shorthorns Builds Responsibility, Confidence, and Community

Proudly supported by M&M Shorthorns 

In barns across the country, something bigger than fitting and halter-breaking is happening. For young people who raise and show Shorthorn cattle, this isn’t just a livestock project—it’s a foundation for life.

The early mornings, feed pans, brushing sessions, and long days at jackpots and fairs are shaping a generation of hardworking, responsible youth. At M&M Shorthorns, and through the Oregon Junior Shorthorn Association (OJSA), we see firsthand how this breed cultivates future leaders in agriculture.

🐂 Responsibility: Built One Feeding at a Time

The first lesson in the barn? Responsibility.

Shorthorns don’t wait, and they don’t make excuses—and neither do their young showmen. Feeding, watering, grooming, and daily training happen no matter the weather or schedule. That consistency teaches kids to show up, follow through, and take ownership of their work.

These are lessons that last long after the banner is folded up. Kids who raise cattle with care grow into adults who take pride in their commitments.

💪 Confidence Grows in the Halter

There’s nothing quite like watching a young showman walk a calf for the first time—unsure, hesitant, learning to communicate with a 1,000-pound animal. And then, something clicks. The calf follows. Trust builds. Confidence takes root.

Shorthorns are known for their calm temperament and youth-friendly nature. That bond creates belief in young exhibitors—not just in the show ring, but in the classroom, in careers, and in leadership roles beyond agriculture.

🏆 Sportsmanship, Character & Respect

Winning is exciting. But the real victories happen when kids learn to lose with grace.Shorthorn exhibitors are taught to shake hands, thank judges, support their peers, and walk out of the ring with pride—win or lose. They develop character and respect for mentors, fellow showmen, and most importantly, for the animals they raise.

🤝 A Barn Community Like No Other

If you’ve ever walked through a Shorthorn barn, you’ve felt it: a warm welcome, helpful advice between stalls, encouragement before classes, and friendships that extend beyond show day.

Oregon Junior Shorthorn Association – Empowering youth in agriculture through leadership, education, and hands-on experience with Shorthorn cattle across Oregon.

At OJSA, supported by breeders like M&M Shorthorns, we believe in mentorship, opportunity, and community. Our mission is to help young people find their place in the Shorthorn breed and thrive in the show industry.

🌱 The Future is in Good Hands

Every daily chore, every long trailer ride, every class in the show ring is building more than a showman—it’s building a leader in agriculture.

At M&M Shorthorns and through the Oregon Junior Shorthorn Association, we’re proud to stand behind today’s youth exhibitors. Because supporting youth isn’t just about the present—it’s an investment in the future of the Shorthorn breed, and the future of agriculture.

The next generation of cattlemen and cattlewomen are already here—and they’ve got halters in hand.

🔗 Learn more about breeders like M&M Shorthorns on our Beef Breeder Directory