We caught up with market lamb judge Bill Disberger before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the Sioux Empire Farm Show. We invite you to read our candid interview with Bill below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Inside the Ring.”
How did you get started in the livestock industry?
I was lucky enough to grow up on a diversified crop and livestock operation and my parents allowed me to start showing in 4-H. Along with that experience I had a progressive 4-H livestock extension agent that kept me on the path of improving both my evaluation and production skills.
Tell us about your career.
After judging competitively through 4-H and FFA I had the opportunity to follow the judging path to Butler Community College and Kansas State University where I majored in Animal Science and Ag Education. I then landed a job at Hutchinson Community College and was the judging coach and instructor there for 10 years. From there I moved back to Manhattan and took a recruitment position at Kansas State and currently now I am a full time realtor, broker and auction coordinator with Crossroads Real Estate and Auction. During this whole time I was raising club lambs both individually and now with my wife Brandie and my two boys Brigham and Brock.
What is your all-time favorite show?
This question is harder for me than it should be. As a judge and coach I have got to see every major in person in some format, multiple state shows and numerous county fairs. Most have had special moments for me in some manner due to people I met and experiences had at each. But probably for me personally has to be the National Western due to the combination of real world livestock and the show ring.
What is your biggest show ring pet peeve?
This one is easy. When it comes to being a good showman it should be about making the animal you are showing look as good as possible not about making it about the showman. Using exaggerated body language as a showman can take away from the animal’s appearance and distract from what the goal should be.
A FEW FUN QUESTIONS
What did you want to be when you were younger?
First I wanted to be a lawyer when I was really young. But once I got bit by the livestock bug I wanted to be a college judging coach.
It’s Karaoke Night… What song are you singing?
None…no one wants me to ruin any song like that!
What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done?
Giving up a solid career at K-State to start in the real estate business.
FAVORITES
Favorite Quote:
“The hardest thing to do is to work hard when no one is watching.”
Favorite Vacation Spot:
Hawaii
Favorite Sports Team:
Kansas State Wildcats
Favorite Singer/Band:
Green Day
Favorite TV Show/Channel:
Last Man Standing/Big Bang
