The Show Is Coming to Town: 2026 AJBA All American Under the Big Top in Bryan, Texas

Message from the EVP, Paul Maulsby

One of the true highlights of the AJBA each year is the All American—an event built on a rich history and tradition that has grown into a premier leadership development platform for our junior members.

The 2026 AJBA All American will take place June 30 – July 5 in Bryan, Texas, and promises to once again bring together juniors from across the country for a week of competition, growth, and connection.

While exhibiting a champion at the All American is a meaningful goal and a tremendous accomplishment—an honor for those who achieve it—participants quickly realize there is much more to the overall experience. It’s about developing leadership skills, building lifelong relationships, and creating connections that often carry forward into future careers and opportunities.

As the event continues to evolve, we are encouraged by the growth of programs with a more commercial focus, such as the Better Beef Contest, which continues to gain participation and add another valuable dimension to the All American.

The All American is more than a show—it’s an opportunity for juniors to grow, lead, and represent the future of the Brahman breed. I encourage each of you to seize every moment, participate in as many events as possible, and challenge yourself to build new relationships while strengthening existing ones.

Key points to remember:

• Entry packet: April 15
• Entries open: May 1
• Ownership deadline: May 1
• Event dates: June 30 – July 5
• Location: Brazos Expo Center, Bryan, Texas
• Late entry: June 1

👉 Mark your calendars for June 30 – July 5, get your entries ready, and we’ll see you Under the Big Top in Bryan, Texas!

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AJBA Member Reminders: Preparing for Summer Shows (All American and State Shows)

As we move into an exciting time of year with upcoming state shows and the AJBA All American, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

Our industry—and our association—operates within a framework of rules and guidelines, and understanding those expectations ahead of time can make all the difference.

We want to share a few important reminders to help you prepare:

• Review all rules and regulations carefully, especially those related to ownership timelines and eligibility.
• Calves must be at least 150 days old on the day of the show to be eligible to exhibit.
• Ensure all DNA requirements are completed well in advance. While we have an efficient system in place, please allow adequate time for results- particularly in the event a re-test is required.
• All A.I./ET calves born in 2025 that participate in the event must have a DNA profile or genotype on file. 
• Pay close attention to Bred & Owned division requirements, including proper holding brands and documentation.
• Be prepared for color classification at the show.
• Bring original registration papers with you to check-in.

Taking the time now to build a checklist and get organized will help avoid unnecessary stress and allow you to focus on what matters most—competing, learning, and enjoying the experience.

The AJBA All American and state shows are opportunities to showcase your hard work and dedication. Being prepared ensures you can make the most of every moment.

We look forward to seeing each of you in the ring!

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Tentative Schedule of Events

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2026 All American Hotel Room Blocks

Wyndham Garden 2829 Texas Avenue, College Station, TX, 77845 Phone: (979) 485-5777 Rate: $99 USD per night Last Day to Book: June 12, 2026 Click here to book!

The Stella Hotel  4100 Lake Atlas Drive, Bryan, TX, 77807 Phone: (979) 421-4000 Rate: $149 USD per night Last Day to Book: June 2, 2026 Click here to book!

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2026 All American Judges

We are pleased to introduce the judges for the cattle portion of the AJBA All American—a distinguished group of industry leaders selected to evaluate some of the most elite Brahman genetics from across the United States. Their experience, knowledge, and commitment to the industry ensure a high level of evaluation and contribute to the continued success and integrity of this premier event.

Owned Female Show Judge: Ryan Rash

F1 and Bull Show Judge: Jack Ward

Bred and Owned Show Judge: Chad Oates

Showmanship Judges: Katy Wunderlich and Kalli Ellis

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Support the Future – Become an All American Sponsor

We’ve all heard the saying, “It takes a village,” and that couldn’t be more true than with the AJBA All American. This event is made possible through the support, organization, preparation, and financial commitment of many individuals and partners who believe in the future of the Brahman breed.

As we prepare for this year’s All American, we invite you to consider becoming a sponsor and playing a direct role in the success of one of the most important youth events in our industry.

Your support makes an immediate impact—helping provide opportunities for juniors to grow as leaders, compete at a high level, and build lifelong connections within the Brahman community.

Why sponsor the All American?

High Visibility Exposure

• Your operation or business will be recognized through event signage, reaching an audience from across the country and across the world.

Show Program Recognition

• Sponsors are featured in the official All American Show Program, providing lasting visibility beyond the event itself.

Event-Wide Presence

• Your support will be acknowledged throughout multiple events and activities during the week, reinforcing your commitment to the industry.

Support the Next Generation

• Most importantly, your investment directly impacts the development of young cattlemen and women, helping shape the future of the Brahman breed.

The All American is more than a show—it’s an experience that builds leaders, strengthens relationships, and advances our industry.

We appreciate your past support and encourage you to join us again in making this year’s event as successful as possible.

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AJBA Leadership Webinar Series

In an effort to enhance growth and education for current and prospective AJBA Board members, we have developed a webinar series featuring updates from the ABBA office along with insights from industry leaders. These sessions are designed to provide a deeper understanding of the organization, leadership opportunities, and the future direction of the AJBA.

The upcoming April 22 session will be held specifically for current AJBA Board members. Additional webinars in May and June will be open to AJBA members who are interested in becoming more involved or learning more about the organization. Space will be limited to 30 participants per session, fill out the link below to reserve your spot.

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Beef Industry Hot Topics

Staying up to date on current issues and emerging trends in the cattle industry is important at every stage, regardless of age or experience. The industry is constantly evolving, and those who take the time to stay informed are better equipped to adapt, make sound decisions, and remain competitive. As part of that effort, we want to share a few of today’s key cattle industry topics with the AJBA—helping keep you informed, engaged, and prepared for the future.

The 2026 U.S. beef industry is defined by record-high cattle prices driven by historically low herd inventories, alongside strong consumer demand despite inflation. Key hot topics include supply constraints, rising production costs, international trade volatility—specifically New World Screwworm concerns at the Mexican border—and increased industry consolidation research. 

Top 2026 Beef Industry Hot Topics:

• Historic Cattle Markets & Tight Supplies: Following years of drought, the national herd has reached a 73-year low, keeping prices for calves, feeders, and fed cattle at record highs. While supply is lower, ranchers are facing high costs and questioning how long high prices will last.
• Import Surge and Trade Issues: Beef imports are at record highs, rising 18% in 2025 and 61% since 2022, leading to debates over international competition. Trade with Mexico has been hampered by the closure of the border to live cattle due to New World Screwworm threats in the Southwest, urging officials to find solutions.

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