Farm Credit Supports PCYLA’s “From Basics to Banners” Youth Clinic

In 2025, Pittsylvania-Caswell Youth Livestock Association (PCYLA) received a Charitable Contributions Fund grant from Farm Credit of the Virginias. The grant allowed PCYLA to plan and host a regional showmanship clinic for youth livestock exhibitors, coined “From Basics to Banners.” The event was originally scheduled for December 6, 2025, but was postponed to February 21, 2026, due to weather. 

After receiving the grant, PCYLA Chairman, Adam Motley, formed a planning committee compiled of Virginia Cooperative Extension agents in Pittsylvania and surrounding counties. The committee held several planning meetings to develop an agenda for the clinic, outline a budget and identify species leaders to support the youth during the clinic.

On February 21, 58 youth livestock exhibitors from 10 counties and their families (over 115 in attendance) met at the Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex in Chatham, Va. for the “From Basics to Banners” showmanship clinic. Renowned livestock judge Terry Burks led the clinic by encouraging participants to dig deeper into their livestock and showmanship knowledge and to take pride in their passion for animal agriculture. Kate Farmer then led instruction for hog exhibitors, Willie Morris guided sheep exhibitors and Hayden Riddick shared his goat expertise with an eager group of youth. Adam Motley and Angela Prince later led cattle exhibitors through hands-on learning while encouraging questions and participation. As part of the clinic, youth selected two target species for the day, exploring one in the morning and the other in the afternoon as Terry Burks rotated among groups to share insight from his experience. 

Terry also led a lunch-and-learn session on showmanship and incorporated a team challenge. At the end of the day, each participant left with a 3.5-gallon bucket which included a halter specific to their selected species, exhibitor number harness, towels, animal soap, a wash brush and a custom cup, along with the knowledge necessary to be successful and the tools to support their journey.

PCYLA is grateful for the Virginia Cooperative Extension Agents from two counties were on-site to assist with registration, meal coordination and general facilitation.

At the end of the clinic, PCYLA collected feedback through a post-event evaluation. 

• 100% of participants stated they learned something new during the clinic.
• 100% of participants stated they found value in the information provided.
• When asked about their confidence level after the clinic, 100% of participants stated their confidence in showing livestock had increased.
• 99% of participants rated the clinic as a 5-star event.

Participants and parents also shared a few quotes after the event:

• “Session leaders were very helpful and informative, and I really enjoyed the hands on for both kids and parents.”
• “We are completely new to this, and it was great. Hope to do it again!”
• “Great program. Highly recommend. Thanks for putting this on.”

Farm Credit is proud to support PCYLA and its efforts to provide young people with valuable hands-on information and a memorable experience.