The event attracted 42 teams from 12 schools, all convening in the gymnasium. Students, organized into pairs, were given one hour to create floral arrangements using identical sets of flowers and greenery. These materials were provided by the Derry Area School District Foundation and Westmoreland-based Dbec Wholesale Co.

Participants competed in two categories: a container-provided category using simple cauldrons supplied by the high school, and a bring-your-own-container category where students used their own decorated containers and accessories.

Although the event was titled the Western Regional Floral Competition, Carly Rippole, the Derry Area agriculture and horticulture, extended invitations statewide due to high interest. “I had so many schools reach out and say they still wanted to do it, so I just opened it up,” Rippole said. “We’ll just do whoever wants to come.”

Rippole, who also organized the 2024 competition, chose this year’s theme, “Disney Villains,” as a contrast to the inaugural theme of “Dolly Parton” in 2024.

Courtesy photo Members of the Tyrone Area FFA Chapter taking part in the Western Floral Design Contest are (from left): Madisen Jones, Cassidy Fleck, Carlie Nowlin, Paige Hoy, Frances Weaver, Gracie Graham, Wyatt Walls and Aubrey Biter. A total of 42 teams from 12 schools participated.

In the bring-your-own-container category, Paige Hoy and Carlie Nowlin secured third place, while Madisen Jones and Frances Weaver placed sixth out of 30 teams. In the fully supplied category, Gracie Graham and Aubrey Biter earned third place, with Wyatt Walls and Cassidy Fleck achieving fifth out of 12 teams.

The competition offered a valuable learning experience. Frances Weaver remarked, “The floral design contest challenged me to trust my creativity, work with intention and adapt when things didn’t go as planned.” Wyatt Walls added, “It was a great time. I had fun working with my partner and creating a strong team.”

“I’m incredibly proud of these students. The only floral design we’ve completed this school year is an evergreen arrangement.” Although Tyrone Area School doesn’t have a formal floral design program, “we’ve created opportunities over the past few years for students to learn design concepts and participate in competitions like this one,” said Tiffany Hoy, Tyrone Area agricultural educator and FFA adviser.

The Tyrone Area FFA members not only showcased their skills but also gained insights into teamwork, time management and self-discovery, paving the way for personal and professional growth.

Madison Jones and Frances Weaver

Gracie Graham and Aubrey Biter

Carlie Nowlin and Paige Hoy