Updated for 2026

The 2026 Maryland Sheep & Wool Ambassador will represent the Maryland Sheep Breeders Association and help to promote sheep and wool during the following year. The competition is open to all genders. Three Alternate Ambassadors will also be chosen. In the event that the Ambassador is not able to fulfill their obligations, an Alternate Ambassador will serve as substitute.

Qualifications

1. Must be between the ages of 14 and 18 inclusive (based on age as of January 1).
2. Must be active in some area of sheep or wool production in the state of Maryland: purebred or commercial breeding projects, 4-H or FFA projects, spinning, etc.
3. Must be a resident of the state of Maryland.

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Responsibilities

1. Participate actively at the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival, including being present at breed shows and for the supreme drive held at the completion of the breed shows on Sunday. (To ensure participation, prizes may not be awarded when the winner is chosen and instead presented at the same time as the Maryland Sheep Breeders Scholarship on Sunday afternoon or at the Maryland Sheep Breeders annual meeting in October.)
2. Attend and help with sheep shows at the county fairs throughout the state (list of events will be provided).
3. Attend and help with Open Sheep Shows during the Maryland State Fair.
4. Give a report of activities at the Maryland Sheep Breeders annual meeting in October.
5. Promote lamb and wool in a variety of other ways: 4-H clubs, Ag Week displays, Taste of Maryland Agricultural Dinner in February, etc.
6. Assist with the 2027 Maryland Sheep & Wool Ambassador Competition.

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Criteria for Selection

1. Poise and ease of contestant
2. Apparent zest or stage presence of contestant
3. Previous background and activities with sheep and wool
4. Knowledge of the sheep and wool industry
5. Public speaking ability

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Prizes

Gifts will be awarded to all contestants.

The Ambassador will receive a cash award of $100 from the Festival, slippers from H. Trawitz & Sons, and a wool fabric sash.

The Alternate Ambassadors will each receive a a cash award of $50.

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How to Enter

Submit your application using our online application form.

Entries must be received by April 20, 2026.

Questions can be sent to gro.l1782344835oowdn1782344835apeeh1782344835s@rod1782344835assab1782344835ma1782344835.