May 7, 2026 (KANSAS CITY, Mo.) – A United Country Real Estate agent and auctioneer out of Friend, Neb., recently earned major recognition during the Nebraska Auctioneers Association’s (NeAA) 78th Annual Convention in late April.
William Yokel, who previously said he’s always been a student of the “craft” of auctions, was named Champion of the 2026 Nebraska State Auctioneer Bid-Calling Contest. Held in Kearney, Neb., April 23-25, the event judged contestants on a comprehensive set of criteria, including a focus on speed, rhythm, clarity and presentation elements. Technical ability, salesmanship and professionalism were all considered.
A 2021 graduate of the World Wide College of Auctioneering, Yokel made his mark early when he received the Nebraska State Champion Ringman Award in 2022, his first time competing in NeAA’s event. He followed that with Rookie of the Year in 2023. Three years later, he garnered his newest award as Bid-Calling Champion. Yokel works for United Country Real Estate | Cerny Land Home and Auction LLC, a franchisee within the century-old United Country network. The brokerage has offices in Friend and Ashland, Neb.
“There are numerous individuals (who) have poured money, time and experience into me both personally and professionally,” Yokel said. “I promise to stand by the title of Nebraska State Champion Auctioneer and use it to benefit others the best I can.”
United Country | Cerny Land Home and Auction helps clients buy and sell country homes, farms and ranches, commercial properties, hunting and recreational properties, and all types of land in Eastern Nebraska. The brokerage serves clients via traditional real estate transactions, as well as though auction methods.
Historically over the decades, many Nebraska auctioneers have made waves in the auction industry both nationally and globally. With such a hot start to his career, Yokel could end up joining that elite group sooner rather than later.
“It feels absolutely incredible … overwhelming. I’m so blessed to be crowned champion today,” he told KVRN 880 Rural Radio following the contest, explaining that he was eight years old when he realized his career path. “I was coming home from a sale with my dad, and I started rambling off numbers and I knew that the auction business was in my future,” he added.
Yokel has never shied from sharing his passion for the auction industry, and he continues to focus on new ways to grow his business and boost his knowledge. And after only five years (so far) as a United Country agent and auctioneer, it’s clear he’s on the right track.
“I want to extend our sincere congratulations to William on this outstanding accomplishment,” said United Country Auction Services President Shawn Terrel. “Winning a state championship in the highly respected Nebraska auctioneering community speaks volumes about William’s skill, dedication and professionalism. What stands out most is his focus on integrity and service — qualities that separate good auctioneers from great ones and align perfectly with the standards we value across our organization.”