Local teen wins state 4-H title

Cassie Holladay

HART — The Michigan 4-H Youth Development Program announced the winners of the inaugural Animal Science Sportsperson of the Year Award this week, and the youth winner is Cassie Holladay of Oceana County.  

The adult winner is Mary Adams, a 4-H leader from Calhoun County.

Cassie, the daughter of Brian and Michelle Holladay of Hart, has been involved in 4-H for 10 years. Cassie’s 4-H project areas include Beef, Dairy, Horse, Teen Leadership, and Community Service as a member of the 4-Star and Rough Riders 4-H clubs. She is also the Teen Beef Representative to Oceana’s Market Livestock Committee for 2014-2016 and previously served as a 4-H Ambassador for Oceana County.

Nominated by three separate individuals, each of her nominators had numerous and gracious things to say about her sportsmanship qualities. It was mentioned on more than one occasion that although Cassie is a fierce competitor, she never hesitates to help teach someone less experienced. It was clear to the selection committee that she exemplifies the spirit of sportsmanship. Her respect for animals, respect for opponents, respect for the game and respect for others made her rise to the top as the 2016 youth winner.  

Michigan 4-H volunteers and teen leaders work with 4-H youth to teach outstanding sportsmanship in competitive environments. They focus on four areas:

1. Displaying respect for animals by exercising good animal management through proper healthcare and nutrition, as well as fair training practices.
2. Displaying respect for opponents by recognizing and appreciating a well-prepared, challenging opponent who can bring out the best in them and share that appreciation with their opponents.
3. Displaying respect for the “game” by respecting and following the rules of the event. This also includes always trying one’s best, using skill and training to achieve positive results, and appreciating the training process.
4. Displaying respect for others including judges, show managers, parents, trainers, coaches and leaders.

“Michigan 4-H is proud to have individuals like Cassie and Mary representing the Animal Science programs,” states a press release from the Michigan State University Extension Office. “It’s because of commitment and dedication like theirs that 4-H is able to provide positive experiences to youth and adults throughout the state.”

To learn more about 4-H in Oceana County, contact the MSU Extension office at 231-873-2129.