Local siblings embrace meat science training
By Kathy Thomson
Albany siblings Newt and Alayna Koemel have both developed a passion for meat, not just eating it, but spending hours in cold lockers learning about meat science, competing on meat judging teams, and pursing a college degree and future career in the field.
Newt recently placed as the fifth alternate on the Texas Tech meat judging team that won the National Championship in Dakota City, Nebraska.
He also received the Rachel Hamilton Memorial Team “Spirit” Award, which is given to the teammate that exemplifies the true “Spirit” of meat judging.
“It’s crazy to think three years ago, I knew nothing about meat judging or the meat industry,” said Newt. “I want to thank the Jim Law family, and I credit them for any success that I am now enjoying.”
Newt, a 2016 Albany High graduate decided to major in meat science at Texas Tech so he would be eligible for that scholarship, which is designated for a Shackelford County graduate who plans to go to Texas Tech and major in meat science.
Seeing her older brother excelling in a field he quickly grew to love inspired current Albany High senior Alayna Koemel to follow his footsteps into cold meat lockers. Like her brother, Alayna is planning on majoring in meat science and joining the Texas Tech meat judging team, but unlike Newt, Alayna started focusing on meat science while still in high school.
Last summer Alayna went to Tech for a meat judging clinic, and this winter she is competing at major stock shows in Texas.
“There were complications getting me registered at the major shows with Albany FFA,” said Alayna. “I contacted the Tech meat judging coaches, and they were able to find an ag teacher in Florence who could add me to his ‘B’ team, so I could gain experience walking through the contest.”
As part of the Florence team, Alayna competed at Fort Worth on Feb. 2, and at San Antonio on Feb. 9.
On Feb. 8, Alayna was able to compete as an Albany FFA member at the Florence and La Vernia Meat Judging Invitational where she placed eighth high individual from Area 4, and first among those from the Big Country District.
