We caught up with showmanship judge Kayla Frink before she steps “Inside the Ring” at the 2026 National Western Stock Show. We invite you to read our candid interview with Kayla below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Inside the Ring – Showmanship Edition.”
Who first encouraged you to step into the ring as a judge?
My parents and sisters have always been very supportive. Having raised sheep as a family for 20+ years we always enjoy evaluating and discussing sheep which led me to livestock judging in 4h and college in which I had very influential coaches at all levels.
Do you have a “pre-show ritual” or way you get in the right mindset before walking into the ring?
Growing up showing and judging I was always a very superstitious person in which I probably still carry some of those rituals today.
What’s one lesson showing livestock taught you that you still use today?
While showing and growing up I think my sisters and I can all relate when saying that winning was the most important thing. However, looking back winning wasn’t the most important thing it was having the “want to win” and the willingness to do the little things every day and put in the most effort to try and be the best. At the end of the day if the outcome of the show didn’t go how we wanted we could still say we put in the work to be successful. I think this gets overlooked sometimes by kids and we just evaluate our success by wins. Once I was out of the ring it became more apparent that the work ethic and putting in the most effort daily is truly the lesson of showing.
What’s the very first thing you notice when an animal/exhibitor enters the ring?
In showmanship specifically if a showman walks in with confidence and poise that shows they mean business really creates a big first impression for me. Also, how an exhibitor presents their sheep initially walking in goes a long way with me.
One word or a short phrase you’d use to describe your judging style?
I’m big on initial impressions
