There are some clubs and associations that do not offer anything for their Junior Members. I am glad that the Ameraucana Breeders Club recognizes our Junior Members by offering a Junior Master Breeder Title and Annual Awards at the District and the National level. I have a few questions that come to mind when thinking about more awards to entice Juniors to show anything. Will the points earned in the Junior Program be carried over to the points required to earn an Open Grand Master Exhibitor title? As a teacher, I spend time reminding my students that exhibiting anything is not all about "what's in it for me". There are people who show because they love the breed, the competition, and the fellowship.
I am not sure what we offer in the form of scholarships, but I had rather see us focus on awarding a scholarship or two to graduating seniors. We could spend the year raising money at some of the Club Meets and the Nationals to be used for scholarships. I would be willing to sell a set of hatching eggs, chicks, juveniles, or breeding pair to go toward a scholarship program.
I think that we and any association or club should be careful awarding the same title to Junior and Open exhibitors and/or breeders. I hope that I don't sound like a "party-pooper" or someone who doesn't support Junior exhibitors, but I have seen too many Junior State Champions and Junior National Champions advertised as State Champions and National Champions. It seems that the "Junior" gets dropped off of the titles in many advertisements. It may not be the advertisers' intention, but it is almost false advertisement when you are the owner or breeder of the State Champion or National Champion.
Just My Opinion,
Ernie Haire
Poutry 2XL