A Washington FFA member prepares ribs for judges during the state barbecue competition. Photo courtesy of the Washington FFA Association.
The sweet smell of barbecue fills the air as young Washington FFA members face off in a new tradition: a state barbecue competition. The winning title isn’t the only thing these members are after; it’s the camaraderie and skills they learn along the way that lead them to compete.
“The thing I like about this contest is the focus it has on students and those students becoming adults,” says Matt Deebach, the Napavine FFA advisor who helped the idea of hosting a state barbecue event become a reality. “From practicing farm-to-table practices to making quick decisions with a team, it shows them how the process works. The contest builds skills that students need to make important decisions in their lives, whether it’s hosting their own backyard barbeque or going to the store to buy their own meat. This competition focuses on building those decision-making skills.”
How the Competition Works
The event consists of teams being supplied with two racks of pork spare ribs. The teams then use blends and recipes of their own to cook the meat, with the goal of creating Saint Louis-style ribs to present to judges. The judges consist of those from FFA-supporting businesses such as Wilco, as well as local community members and FFA Alumni who want to see these members thrive.
Washington FFA members prepare a rack of ribs. Photo courtesy of the Washington FFA Association.
“No matter who you are, this event grows those skills that everyone will need to use in everyday life,” says Deebach, who hopes to see the competition continue to grow. “I love how the students tell me they are the ones who are cooking at home, and not Mom and Dad. Every year, I get more and more emails from chapters who are interested in competing, and it’s so awesome to see.”
Tonasket FFA members cut their ribs at the 2024 competition.
The competition is expected to grow, with more teams joining in the near future. Washington FFA continues to support the cause, and organizations like Traeger have offered to sponsor the competition.
To learn more about how you could start a barbecue competition, visit the National High School BBQ Association website.
