Avery Shalla and Lainey DeVries | Interview with Stock Show University

One week ago, the dreams of Avery Shalla and Lainey DeVries came true in the Livestock Pavillion on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Avery exhibited the Champion Market Steer at the Iowa State Fair, while Lainey exhibited the Reserve Champion Steer.  The Avery and Lainey are both trusted Sullivan Supply customers and took the time to visit with Tess Mittag, Stock Show U Manager, about some of their favorite Sullivan Supply products along with a little bit about themselves.

 

Avery is the 17-year-old daughter of Nick and Jayna Shalla from Riverside, Iowa. Avery will be a Senior at Lone Tree High School this fall. 

 

Lainey is the 17-year-old daughter of Dave and Tammy DeVries from Red Oak, Iowa. Lainey will be a Senior at Red Oak High School this fall. 

 

How did you get started in the show cattle industry? 

 

Avery: “I first got started in the show cattle industry when I was 6 years old. When I showed my first steer at the Sioux Empire show in 2013. I have been in love with showing ever since.” 

 

Lainey: “My dad, Dave, owns a cow-calf operation which I became involved with at a very young age. I showed my first calf around the age of 8 years-old and have shown cattle every year since then.”

 

What is your favorite Sullivan Supply daily care product and why?

 

Avery: “My favorite Sullivan Supply product for daily care would definitely have to be Kleen Sheen because we go through it like holy water.” 

 

Lainey: “My favorite daily Sullivan Supply product is Kleen Sheen. It keeps their hair coat conditioned and healthy while also adding that ideal shine. It’s also great for training hair in the cooler.”

 

What is your favorite Sullivan Supply show day product and why?

 

Avery: “My favorite Sullivan Supply show day product would have to be Powder’ful because of the way it enhances and builds the hair when fitting.”

 

Lainey: “My favorite Sullivan Supply’s show day product is the Incognito Show Halter. It offers a clean show look, and it’s easy to use.”

 

What advice would you give to younger exhibitors or exhibitors that are just starting?

 

Avery: “I would tell everyone to set their goals high and work hard to achieve their goals. No matter how hard things get, be persistent, keep your head up and work hard!!! “Live in the barn, sleep in the house”.”

 

Lainey: “Advice I would give to younger exhibitors is that hard work DOES pay off. It may not be right away, but if you stick with it, good things will come your way.”

 

What is your #1 piece of advice when it comes to showing your calf in the ring?

 

Avery: “My number one piece of advice when it comes to showing your calf in the ring is to remember that every animal is different. You have to master your own technique of how to show your animal before even entering the ring.”

 

Lainey: “My #1 piece of advice when it comes to showing your calf in the ring is to stay calm and relaxed. When you get worked up, so does your calf. Just ease up and do what you can.”

 

Within the industry, who is your biggest role model and why?

 

Avery: “My biggest role model in the cattle show industry would be Nolan Ferguson. He has taught me so much, and I look up to him because of everything that he has accomplished. I can’t thank him enough for making my dream a reality and always believing in me.”

 

Lainey: “My biggest role model within the industry is Ty Webster. He has helped me become the showman I am today. I look up to his work ethic and determination to succeed within this industry.”

 

Anything else you’d like to share with us? 

 

Avery: “My favorite quote would have to be the one that my dad always says to us every day in the barn, “Outwork everyone and it will pay off!”. I would also like to thank the Nolan Ferguson, Luke Doris, and Wade Rodgers for everything they have done for me – you guys are the best!!”

 

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