Mesquite FFA students cohost “Sweetheart Showdown”

On Valentine’s Day weekend, there was a “Sweetheart Showdown” in Gilbert. Mesquite FFA from Mesquite High School co-hosted the annual livestock show. The fundraiser goes toward helping students with future events like dances, meetings, and other activities. This year, 400 people took part in the showdown, with many of them competing in multiple events, or with more than one animal.

Participants traveled from all over, places like Yuma, Payson, and even New Mexico. With such a diverse group, student volunteers worked extremely hard to ensure everything ran smoothly. Large stock animals were presented to the judges, including swine, goats, sheep, and cattle. 

For the first time in the show’s history, the “Sweetheart Showdown” was officially sanctioned by the Beyond the Ring Junior Livestock Association. As part of the event, students not only gained experience, but they also had the opportunity to earn buckles and jackets. Awards were given for showmanship, market, prospect, and breeding classes. 

Mesquite FFA was chartered in Gilbert, Arizona back in 1999. Members and alumni have built the program on personal growth, premier leadership, and career success.The student-led organization is part of the Career & Technical Education program offered at Gilbert Public Schools. The showdown happened days before National FFA Week, which recognizes Future Farmers of America chapters around the country and the impact FFA  has on its members.

To learn more about Mesquite High School and the programs it has to offer, schedule a school tour or enroll today!