Posted 24 October, 2025
Four Delaware County 4-H members proudly represented Iowa at the 2025 National 4-H Dairy Judging Contest held during the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin. The World Dairy Expo is the premier exhibition for the dairy industry to learn, share and showcase competition.
This contest brought together more than 80 participants from 23 states to evaluate classes of dairy cattle and defend their placings through oral reasons.
Delaware County team and coaches.Representing Iowa were Ford Domeyer, Tyler Hoeger, Aden Kruse and Caden Kremer. Kaleb Kruse, Jeannie Domeyer and Mason Kruse coached the team. This team placed first at the state competition in August, earning their spot to represent Iowa at the national contest.
“Programs like dairy judging show how 4-H develops more than just livestock knowledge — it builds confidence and lifelong skills,” said Celine Beggs-Shoemaker, Iowa 4-H animal science program specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “These youth worked incredibly hard to represent Iowa at the national level, and their achievements are a great reminder of what’s possible when passion meets preparation.”
“I have gained many lifelong skills through dairy judging, such as public speaking. Talking to judges and giving reasons helps us speak more effectively in front of people,” said Ford Domeyer. “It has also helped me learn to work with a team.”
The World Dairy Expo features a unique showring with custom-dyed shavings, making it a highlight for youth participants. Tyler Hoeger said, “I enjoyed judging on the colored shavings in a suit … the atmosphere was something that I had never experienced before.”
The Iowa team finished seventh overall and sixth place in oral reasons.