When Avery McMurphy was eight years old, she started showing cattle through the 4-H club and fell in love with it. Today she is a student at Alva High School and a member of the FFA chapter. 

“As I got older and spent more time around the FFA kids at trips and contests I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of seeing how much fun they were having together as friends,” McMurphy said. “It was just a matter of getting me there so I can thank my parents for that. They got me in the show ring at a young age and kept pushing me to do my best. So when it came to enrolling for my eighth grade classes, Agriculture Education was on the top of my list.” 

Today, McMurphy is involved in many activities with the FFA. 

“Livestock showing and livestock judging have always been my two main priorities within FFA but going into my sophomore year of high school I’ll be adding a new priority to that list of being the chapter Vice President. I’m also excited to get back into public speaking this year since I didn’t my freshman year,” said McMurphy. 

McMurphy said the friendships and the competitions are what she enjoys the most. 

“Those are the two things I have found since joining FFA that have made it the most enjoyable for me. I’ve always had a competitive edge in everything I did and to be involved in an association where everyone has a goal and is working hard nonstop to achieve it makes you want to work harder to achieve your goals first. I’ve been able to make more friends through FFA than I ever had before and I’m truly grateful for it,” said McMurphy. 

The sophomore also plays fastpitch softball for Alva and loves being on the team. 

“The feeling of family is what comes to mind when I think about the girls on my softball team. I know I could go to any of them for advice or just to talk about anything. Being able to be close with the girls on my team makes all of our ups and downs more connected and our bond stronger not only as a team but as friends because no matter we have each other’s backs. To have a bond like that is what makes this bunch of girls so special and I’m excited to see what this season has in store for us,” said McMurphy. 

McMurphy is also involved in Key Club and plans spend the rest of her high school days participating in the club.