Michigan 4-H Animal Science Sportsperson of the Year brings sportsmanship to competition

With minimal planning, you can easily include sportsmanship lessons into competitive events.

Wyatt Mazich with his 2016 Michigan 4-H Animal Science Sportsperson of the Year buckle.
Wyatt Mazich with his 2016 Michigan 4-H Animal Science Sportsperson of the Year buckle.

The Michigan 4-H Youth Development Program would like to announce Shiawassee County 4-H member Wyatt Mazich as the winner of the second annual Michigan 4-H Animal Science Sportsperson of the Year award. The selection committee had a difficult time selecting just one winner from many impressive nominations.

Mazich was nominated by 4-H leaders Beth Clark and Nicole Challender, with letters of support from Shiawassee County 4-H program coordinator Nikki Hersch. It was mentioned on more than one occasion that although Mazich is a fierce competitor, he never hesitates to help teach someone less experienced.

It was clear to the selection committee that Mazich also shows a great deal of care and respect for the animals in his care. It’s because of the commitment and dedication of individuals like Mazich to the 4-H animal science programs that we’re able to provide positive experiences to youth and adults throughout our state.

Know someone who deserves to be recognized for their sportsmanship? The Michigan 4-H Animal Science Sportsmanship Award is given out annually, and we accept nominations throughout the year. Simply fill out the nomination form and include required support materials by Oct. 1.

Looking to incorporate sportsmanship into your 4-H activities? Visit Michigan 4-H’s Sportsmanship and Competitive Event Resources website where you’ll find an interactive Sportsmanship Activity series, a webinar on sportsmanship and example questions judges can use to help evaluate sportsmanship as it relates to a 4-H project. Also, check out this Michigan State University Extension article on the four ways parents can model good sportsmanship at shows.

For more information on the upcoming webinar, or how you can incorporate more sportsmanship into your programs contact, Taylor Fabus at tenlenta@msu.edu.

Did you find this article useful?