TORRINGTON, Wyo. – The Eastern Wyoming College livestock judging team opened its new season with a strong performance at the Casper College Mock Contest, earning fourth-place honors in several freshman team categories.

The EWC freshman team placed fourth overall in the sheep, swine and beef divisions, as well as fourth in the reasons and placings divisions. The team also finished fourth overall among freshman teams.

Individually, EWC freshman Drew Ballard placed 10th overall in the freshman sheep division and 10th in the reasons division. Ballard also set a new EWC freshman reasons score record with a score of 327 at the Casper College Mock Contest.

Sophomore Nora Joslyn placed 10th among individuals in the sophomore cattle division.

“It was a great way to kick off the year,” EWC Livestock Judging Coach Zane Mackey said. “We saw a lot of positives and have plenty to build on as we continue to move forward.”

Mackey said the team’s early success provides a foundation to build upon as the season progresses.

“Proud of this team and the work they continue to put in,” Mackey said. “We just need to start taking care of the big things, and I think we’ll see the results follow.”

The Lancer livestock judging team will continue preparing for upcoming competitions throughout the season.