Greg Treffer, a senior animal science major, is continuing a family legacy at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and in horse judging.
Growing up in the livestock industry, Treffer said there was never a question about attending Nebraska and studying animal science. With his sights set on becoming a large animal veterinarian, being a member of the horse judging opened doors to chase these dreams.
What drew you to studying animal science and pursuing veterinary medicine?
Both of my parents graduated from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and I grew up with livestock, so there was never a second thought about coming to UNL and majoring in animal science. From growing up with livestock, I’ve become passionate about caring for them and a career in veterinary medicine gives me an opportunity to care for animals to the best of my abilities.
For those unfamiliar, can you describe what the Horse Judging Team is and how the judging process works?
Horse judging combines learning how to evaluate horses in both performance and halter classes (also referred to as conformation, or the structure, balance and muscling of the individual) and presenting oral reasons to justify your placing. The team will travel to at least three major contests during the fall and one in the spring. These contests usually include judging twelve classes (four horses in each class), a mix of performance and halter, and giving anywhere from two to six sets of reasons. Being a part of the team gives someone the opportunity to learn how to describe the structure, movement and compositional differences in horses and how to effectively communicate those observed differences. The opportunity to experience the world’s best horses at the most prestigious shows is an amazing experience. Overall, it has really allowed me to appreciate the breadth and scope of the equine industry.
Your parents are alumni and were involved in judging. What does it mean to you to follow in their footsteps?
It means a lot to me to not only be able to follow in their footsteps of attending the university, but also to participate in something that they enjoyed, too. I don’t consider myself as creating a new legacy — both my parents were very successful during their time on the judging teams — but rather, I feel that I am simply continuing their legacy by using some of the skills they have taught me growing up.
How will your involvement with the Horse Judging Team prepare you for a successful future?
The horse judging team has given me intangible skills, such as correctly identifying higher-quality animals, evaluating movement and of course, public speaking. I have seen my confidence grow with my time on the team and I truly believe that I will carry these skills with me for the rest of my life.
For those looking to become more involved on campus or be part of a team like horse judging, what advice would you give them?
Being a part of the team is one of my best decisions, and I encourage others to step out of their comfort zone and find something they are passionate about. The long practices and time away from class may seem daunting, but the experiences and lessons learned are irreplaceable.
Are there any memories from your time on the Horse Judging Team that stand out?
My favorite memory is the trip to the 2024 Quarter Horse Congress and winning the senior college high individual overall.
Although the drive to Columbus, Ohio is long, I really enjoy the time spent with my teammates. It was satisfying to see all the hard work from the time I started horse judging to now at the senior college level come to fruition and be named the high senior college individual overall. It was a surreal experience, and one I will never forget.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
My plan is to go to veterinary school to become a large animal veterinarian. I hope to be able to return to central Nebraska to practice and continue to ranch, raising registered Angus cattle and quarter horses.
Is there anyone at Nebraska who had a positive impact on you?
I’ve been extremely blessed that everyone I’ve met in college has had a positive impact on me. Those who have impacted me the most would be Kathy Anderson as well as her assistant coaches on the judging team. Also, Jessica Petersen, Benny Mote and Thomas Burkey have all helped me tremendously throughout my college career.
What is something you have learned during your time at Nebraska that you will take with you in the future?
While at Nebraska, I’ve learned the importance of growing connections with both fellow students and the faculty. Through these connections, there are opportunities to develop personally and professionally. I know that as I go forward in life after college, I will continue to seek out these connections.
