Growing up around livestock and ranching, Prague High School senior Kailey Rich, made the natural move to join the FFA chapter at school when she was in junior high.
“I have been involved in agriculture, growing up on a cattle ranch my entire life. I have
shown in 4H since I was nine. I joined FFA in the eighth grade and have been involved ever since. My dad got me involved in FFA because growing up he always took me to stock shows and would tell me about his FFA experiences. I knew from a young age I wanted to be a part of the program and atmosphere,” said Rich.
For Rich, there are many things she loves about FFA, but the people are always at the top of the list.
“My favorite part of FFA is meeting new people that have the same interests that I have. I enjoy going to alumni camp and leadership conferences and being able to grow my leadership skills while making lifelong friends. In the Prague FFA chapter, I am involved in livestock showing, livestock judging, public speaking, animal science quiz bowl, ag sales and my chapter officer team,” said Rich.
Rich has shown goats for the last four years, but she got her start showing cattle, which she did for three years. Rich is also a member of National Honor Society and serves as president, plays softball and basketball and is looking forward to attending college next fall.
“I love how hard the softball program has pushed me both mentally and physically. Through it I have been given the opportunity to grow and accomplish many personal and team goals with my teammates. It has created memories I will never forget. I love the environment my teammates provide. I have always grown up in a small town, so I have grown up playing sports with these girls and going to school with them every day. It is a family environment on and off the field. Everyone is always encouraging each other and wants the best for each of their teammates because we all want to accomplish the same goal and we care for each other as more than just softball players,” said Rich.
Next fall Rich plans to attend Northern Oklahoma College where she will play softball and pursue a degree in Agricultural Communications.
“After graduating from NOC, I plan to attend a four-year university and join the sports
media and broadcasting program in hopes to eventually become a sports reporter,” said Rich.
From the influence of her father to the benefits of being in FFA, Rich said everyone should be open to trying new things.
“My dad has been a big influence in my life. He has always encouraged me to try something new and helped me to be the best I can be at everything that I do. He has always been there to pick me up after a rough day and to cheer me on throughout it all. He has made me into the person I am today. I would tell anyone who is thinking about joining FFA to go for it! The FFA is so much more than just a high school organization! It has something for everyone, and you will learn so much and meet so many amazing people that will always be in your corner. Also, it doesn’t hurt to step out of your comfort zone and try something new, you may fall in love with it,” said Rich.
