Alexis Rissler, a Senior at Lakewood Ranch High School, is part of the Agriscience Program and National FFA Organization for Show Steers. The school provides hands-on learning in labs and outdoor facilities such as a steer barn, swine barn and pastures.
Show steers are beef cattle raised and exhibited by students as part of their agricultural education and leadership development. Steers are carefully managed, fed, and trained to be shown at fairs and livestock shows. Students demonstrate their skills in animal husbandry and presentation, with the steers ultimately being evaluated on their conformation, muscle, and overall market-ready condition.
Alexis especially enjoys ‘fitting’ the steer. This involves enhancing the animal’s appearance, so it presents well for judging. This includes grooming, clipping, and applying products to improve hair and leg structure, all while maintaining a natural look.
Her hard work and dedication paid off with the steer she named “Talk of the Town.” This steer was named ‘Grand Champion” and weighed in at approximately 1600 lbs.