World Champions

Story and Photo by Torie Robinson

Winning by 433 points, one team was named the 2011 World Champion Collegiate Meat Judging Team.
Students involved in the Texas Tech University meat judging team may have left their mark on the world with countless winnings and one in particular.

On July 9, 2011, Texas Tech’s meat judging team competed in the most significant contest in their collegiate judging careers – the Australian Intercollegiate Meat Judging Contest in Armidale, New South Wales.

Mark Miller, San Antonio Livestock Show distinguished chair in meat science and Texas Tech meats team coach and adviser,  said he is proud to be a part of a team that will forever be recognized world-wide. 

Miller said there were 13 teams invited to the contest, and Texas Tech was the only team from the U.S.  The team was fortunate to have each of the 15 team members place in the top 17, individually, among teams from Japan and Australia.

Drew Cashman, a junior in agricultural communications, said it was more than just a contest for the Texas Tech team, it was a chance to show the world that Texas Tech is the best at judging meats.

“I placed second overall as an individual, but our team placed first,” Cashman said.  “I love competing in contests to win with my friends and my team.”

Cashman explained the team was very surprised to be awarded first place at such an advanced contest.  It was Texas Tech’s first time to compete at the event.

“We were shocked, but it was great to win against tough teams from Japan and Australia,” Cashman said.
Miller said it was amazing to know other teams and coaches noticed Texas Tech.  Numerous people complimented Texas Tech on the win, and recognized the time and work the team put into preparing for the contest.

“The team was very humble and proud,” Miller said.  “I was honored to have many people from Australia tell me how gracious my kids were of the win, and that they handled themselves very well.”

Miller stated that the team brought home many other valuable learning experiences outside the win.  The trip allowed many students to become familiar with different cultures and locations in another continent. 

“We got to tour different facilities and locations in Australia,” Miller said.  “Being associated with people from a different country and seeing their way of life was a great experience for the judging team members.”

Cashman said he feels the trip to Australia was a great opportunity for him and his team members. 

“Going to another continent was a great chance that not too many people from Texas Tech are able to have,” Cashman said.  “We met a lot of people from different countries and made memories that will last  a lifetime.”

Miller said he is privileged to be involved with Texas Tech, the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, and the meat judging team.