We caught up with Mr. Kaden Derrer, exhibitor of the Reserve Champion Commercial Ewe at the 2025 EYO, Grand Champion Commercial Ewe at the 2025 NAILE and Grand Champion Ewe at the 2026 National Western Stock Show. Learn a little more about Kaden below!
How did you get started in showing livestock?
Outside the show barn, my favorite thing to do is livestock judging and hanging out with friends. Judging helps me sharpen my decision-making skills and stay connected to the industry, while spending time with friends lets me relax, have fun, and enjoy a break from the competitive side of showing.
Favorite show to attend?
Aksarben or Arizona
If you weren’t showing, what sport/hobby would you be doing?
If I wasn’t showing livestock, I would still stay competitive through livestock judging or by playing competitive cornhole. Both keep that same drive to compete and improve, whether it’s analyzing animals in the ring or focusing on precision and strategy in a cornhole match.
Favorite show barn chore? Least favorite?
Favorite: Feeding
Least Favorite: Cleaning Pens
What’s one thing your parents/mentors always remind you of before you go in the ring?
No matter what I’m doing, I always make sure to have fun and stay humble. Enjoying the experience keeps me motivated, and staying grounded reminds me to respect others, learn from every situation, and appreciate both wins and losses.
What’s one thing you learned from your champion that will help you with future projects?
One important thing I learned from my champion that will help me in future projects is to always stay calm and have patience. Keeping a clear mind allows me to make better decisions, handle pressure more effectively, and trust the process, no matter the outcome.
Who was the first person you hugged or high-fived after your big win?
My twin brother
