VYPE: Finley, let’s talk about FFA first. Who got you involved or encouraged you to get involved?
Finley Yocham: Both of my parents were involved in FFA, and both showed livestock so it’s something we’ve always done together. I grew up in a barn and started showing when I was eight years old.
VYPE: What do you enjoy most about being in FFA?
FY: Sapulpa FFA has amazing ag teachers who push their students out of our comfort zones and to be the best we can be! We have so much fun traveling to contests and competing!
VYPE: What activities are you involved in with the Sapulpa chapter?
FY: Along with showing cattle, I have had the honor of competing at state with the opening and closing ceremonies team and I will do livestock judging, land judging, and will compete in speech contests this spring!
VYPE: Do you show any other animals? If so, what do you show?
FY: I show steers, heifers, and goats.
VYPE: What other activities are you involved in at school?
FY: Other than basketball, FFA, and competitive dance, I will join the track team this spring.
VYPE: What advice would you give a student who may be considering joining FFA?
FY: I would recommend FFA to everyone! FFA is a great organization that doesn’t just mean you’re a farmer and you don’t have to have animals. there are so many leadership opportunities and life skills you can gain.
VYPE: Who has been a big influence in your life?
FY: My parents are and will always be the biggest influences in my life. Both of them played sports and showed livestock when they were in high school, so they always understand when I’m feeling overwhelmed. They always figure out a way to make it work with four kids all showing cattle and doing multiple sports year-round. I’m so grateful for them both.
VYPE: What grade are you in and what are your plans after you graduate?
FY: I am a freshman. I don’t really have a plan yet, but I do know I want to be a chiropractor for people and animals!
VYPE: What do you love most about being on the basketball team and do you play any other sports?
FY: I couldn’t ask for better coaches than Coach Calip, Coach Coop, and Coach Littlebear. They not only coach us in basketball but encourage us to do our best in all areas. because of them I have learned so much in my short time on their team and am gaining the confidence I needed to better my game! I also do competitive dance at Ovations studio and gym in Sapulpa. I have danced there for 14 years. I compete in jazz, contemporary, and tap.
VYPE: What do you love most about your team and teammates?
FY: When I joined the team I had gone to another school (Lone Star). I was a new kid at a new school on a new team and they welcomed me like they had known me forever. They made the transition a lot easier for me. The girls are so supportive of me when I have to miss for FFA, and cattle shows. We are a very close team and I’m so thankful for everything I learn from them daily!
