March 2015 Extreme Team News, Official News of Texas High School and Junior High Rodeo

C a t her in e C l ay t o n 2014 TJHRA GIRLS BREAKAWAY CHAMPION

RANCH FAMILY: THE BRAY FAMILY sPonsor sPoTLigHTs:

LEXIE RUSSELL

PRSRT STD STD PRSRT US POSTAGE POSTAGE US PAID PAID BRYAN TX TX 77802 77802 BRYAN PERMIT ## 23 23 PERMIT

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COLLEGE RODEO EDITION

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EXECUTIvE BOARD STATE PRESIDENT STEvE DICKEY

PO Box 862, Centerville, TX 75833 903.536.4098 (home) steve@txriatarealty.com

1ST vICE PRESIDENT MIKE COOK

375 Tokio Loop • West, TX 76691 254.829.1788 • scarface@kencook.net

2ND vICE PRESIDENT ALAN BOHLEN

in This issue

EXTREME TEAM NEWS Official Publication of the Texas High School Rodeo Association

2015 COLLEGE RODEO EDITION

PO Drawer 468 • Hondo, TX 78861 830.741.4485 • alanbohlen@yahoo.com

HOLLY DeLAUNE Marketing Director

830.815.1800 • delaune.holly@gmail.com

LAUREN TUTTLE STUMBERG Graphics/Layout Director lauren@distinct-graphics.com 830.249.8020

PAGE 6

SECRETARY/TREASURER SUSAN BALDWIN

AvA ANDERSON

Advertising ava.anderson@yahoo.com 830.540.3737(H) • 512.576.2275(C)

704 1/2 Southview Circle • Center, TX 75935 936.590.4447 texashighschoolrodeo@gmail.com

NATIONAL DIRECTOR COTTON GEORGE

PO Box 30 • Martinsville, TX 75958 936.564.8993 (home) cottongeorgetx@gmail.com

BRIAN ROBERTS

Computer Programmer brian.roberts53@att.net 281.213.9143

LEXIE RUSSELL - PAGE 13

ARIAT PERFORMANCE REPORTERS REGION I

JUNIOR HIGH NATIONAL DIRECTOR JOHN BLAND

KENNADY JOHNSON

QUEEN COORDINATOR DEE DEE DUNDA

CHEYENNE BRITTAIN

REGION II

BRENNA HARTLEY

PO Box 112 • Turkey, TX 79261 806.220.7108 • jeblandnspade@yahoo.com

REGION III

REGION IV

McKENZIE RAY

8819 Holiday Drive • Odessa, TX 79765 432-413-2358 • prettywoman1965@hotmail.com

MARKETING HOLLY DELAUNE

73 Breeze Way, Boerne, TX 78006 830.815.1800 delaune.holly@gmail.com

REGION V

HANNAH HEMPHILL

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT – PAGE 18

REGION VI

CIERA GOODE REGION VII

SKYLER STONE REGION VIII

RANCH FAMILY: THE BRAY FAMILY

DELEGATES AT LARGE MIKEY DUGGAN

PO Box 1414 • Canyon, TX 79015 806.655.9910 • m.j.duggan@att.net

MONTANA COX REGION IX

KELSEY THOMPSON REGION X

BROOKE BOILES

PAGE 27

STEvE MCCONNELL

THSRA OFFICIAL SPONSORS

425 CR 510 • Hereford, TX 79405 806.276.5671 • lindam@wtrt.net

CHRIS WOLFE

630 E FM 813 • Palmer, TX 75152 214.403.4638 • chris.wolfe@bldr.com

BUBBA BENNIGHT

143 Bailey Blvd. • Bastrop, TX 78602 512.461.6091 • bubbabennight@yahoo.com

ROBERT SBRUSCH

821 Manor Drive • Angleton, TX 77515 979.848.3805 • sbrusch@sbcglobal.net

STUDENT OFFICERS

thsraofficers@hotmail.com STUDENT PRESIDENT CHEYENNE BRITAIN STUDENT vICE PRESIDENT MCKENNA GREENE STUDENT SECRETARY KADIE BETH WISENER QUEEN KENNADY JOHNSON

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT – PAGE 31

REGION

news

REGION REGION REGION REGION REGION

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08 11 12 14 16

REGION REGION REGION REGION REGION

vI vII vIII IX X

TEXAS JUNIOR HIGH DIvISION 41

28 30 32 34 37

texas ram dealers

THSRA is a non-profit organization (501-C).

Production of this publication was funded by membership dues and is provided complimentary to members of THSRA. Non-members may purchase annual subscriptions for $25.00

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2015 COLLEGE RODEO EDITION 6

TAKING THE NEXT STEP: INSIDE COLLEGE RODEO

E

by Holly DeLaune

very month in the extreme team news you will read about our many impressive Seniors. You will learn more about who they are and where they are going. Most of those Seniors are focused on their next step past high school rodeo, which for many will include their membership into the national intercollegiate rodeo association (NIRA).

Much like THSRA, the NIRA has seen steady growth since its inception. Today, a Senior can choose from many College Rodeo Programs across the country. We encourage you to check out their website and learn more about their association, scholarships they offer and to see current standings. This month we wanted to give you some insight into your next step of college rodeo. Many of the top college rodeo programs are being featured throughout the paper this month. They are interested in you and encourage students and parents to call them and ask questions about their program.

THE FIRST 50 YEARS OF THE NIRA As we embark on the next 50 years of college rodeo, it is appropriate to take a look at the 50 that have brought us to where we are now. Sort of a History 101 lesson, without a final.

Let us take you back to the days of horned rim glasses, Pearl Harbor, and college rodeos earliest beginnings...

With World War II coming to an end, and college rodeo popularity on the rise, the need for a sanctioning body was upon us. At a meeting on November 6th, 1948, in Alpine, Texas, twelve schools came together to discuss the creation of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association. Decided at that meeting was the need for a constitution, which was then established at a second meeting held in February 1949.

Hank Finger, then Sul Ross State Universities Rodeo Club President and chairman of the constitutional committee, worked with that committee on developing eligibility guidelines, scholastic standards, and rodeo structure. The committee created a format for intercollegiate rodeo that would remain consistent throughout the country and provide national recognition for their constituents.

August 1949 marked the official, legal birth of NIRA when they filed for non-profit status. The first College National Finals Rodeo was held the same year in San Francisco, California. The first NIRA All Around Champion crowned that year was Harley May of Sul Ross State University.

The next decade, the era of bobby socks and poodle skirts, was one of difficulty for the NIRA. The 1950s brought problems with structure and finance for college rodeo. The 1956 National Convention addressed these problems by creating a Secretary/Manager position within the NIRA. Alvin G. Davis of Bownfield, Texas, was hired to fill that position.

Entering into the 60s, the Sonny Sikes family led college rodeo into consistent membership growth and the television boom. The 1962 College National Finals Rodeo appeared on ABC’s Wide World of Sports. NBC aired the 1965 finals, and ABC, again aired the event in 1967. Rodeo at this time was experiencing a huge growth in several arenas, professional and college, the television airtime was a welcomed partner in the growth. Member schools totaled 97 in 1966.

Vietnam, and computers, were the topics of the 70s in college rodeo. National sponsors began joining the college rodeo forces. Vietnam didn’t slow the growth of NIRA. Member schools totaled 116 in 1970 with 41of those two-year institutions. The first national sponsor was the U.S. Tobacco Co. Scholarship Awards Program which was created in 1975,

if you are interested in learning more about the national intercollegiate Rodeo Association,

email us at nira@bmi.net

or visit our website: www.collegerodeo.com

offering $70,000 in scholarships to regional and national champions. In 1979, Miller Brewing Company offered scholarships to the ten winning teams in NIRA’s regions, as well as the CNFR winning teams.

In 1970 the NIRA Public Relations Director, Del Higham, predicted further NIRA growth in the Southeast, which at that time included McNeese State University and Northwestern State University. This was a prediction that proved true as an eighth region joined that year, the Ozark region, including Arkansas, Northern Mississippi, and Southern Missouri. With dedicated forces behind the NIRA, growth was still apparent. Higher enrollments at colleges and universities was also an asset in the 70s.

During the silver anniversary year of the NIRA, Tim Corfield, Northwest Faculty Director, joined the Board of Directors. Corfield, a coach at Walla Walla Community College, accepted the Executive Secretary position in 1979, when Sonny and Joanne Sikes retired from their long held posts. The office then moved from Texas to Washington state.

By the 80s college rodeo was at an all time high, with member schools totaling 155. Wrangler Jeans & Shirts signed on as a national sponsor in 1982. The inception of the Wrangler Officials Program was created. NIRA officials now received payment from an official’s judging fund.

Feathered hair and bell bottoms behind us, the 90s has been a time of change for the NIRA. The college finals moved in 1997 from a 24-year home in Bozeman, Montana, to Rapid City, South Dakota. New national sponsors have allied, and continue to do so. The National Intercollegiate Rodeo Foundation was created, offering relief for injured athletes, scholarships, historical preservation, and the wellness program “RAWHIDE.” Over the years, NIRA’s history has read like a Who’s Who in the sport of rodeo. Roy Cooper, Chris LeDoux, Ty Murray, Tuff Hedeman, Dan Mortensen, and many more, are all champions in college rodeo, as well as professional rodeo. They have added to the success of college rodeo, and created some of it’s rich western history.

“Preserving Western heritage through collegiate rodeo”, has been a theme repeated over the course of fifty years. Today these efforts are being made through over 100 college rodeos a year, over 3,500 student members annually and 137 member schools and universities.

College rodeo has yet to its peak. What will the next fifty years offer?

- Article provided by NIRA Website

BIG SKY REGION

College Rodeo Team Standings

Montana; and also Northwest Community College - Powell, WY.

CENTRAL PLAINS REGION

southern & southwestern regions SOUTHERN REGION

Standings as of Nov 25, 2014

Men’s Team 1. Wharton Cnty Junior Coll WHARTN 2. McNeese State University MCNSU 3. Hill College HILL

Points 2,112.00 1,837.50 1,825.00

Women’s Team Points 1. McNeese State University MCNSU 1,359.50 2. Sam Houston State University SAMSU 1,242.83 3. Texas A&M University TXAMU 976.15

National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association Region Locations

SOUTHWEST REGION

Standings as of Oct 21, 2014 Men’s Team Points 1. Tarleton State University TARLET 2,542.50 2. Western Texas College WTXC 1,705.00 3. Weatherford College WEATHR 1,630.00 Women’s Team Points 1. Eastern New Mexico University ENMU 1,012.00 2. Tarleton State University TARLET 994.84 3. Odessa College ODESSA 952.00

Kansas; Oklahoma; and also Northwest Missouri State University - Maryville, MO.

CENTRAL ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION

Wyoming; Colorado; and also Chadrom State College Chadron NE.

GRAND CANYON REGION

Arizona; and also New Mexico State University - Las Cruces, NM; San Juan College - Farmington, NM.; Western New Mexico University - Silvercity, NM.

GREAT PLAINS REGION

North Dakota; South Dakota; Nebraska; Minnesota; Iowa; Wisconsin

NORTHWEST REGION Washington; Oregon; Northern Idaho

OZARK REGION

Check out your amazing college rodeo options!

make sure to take a look at all of our participating colleges & the Rodeo programs available!

Wharton County Jr. College Cisco College Howard College Texas A&M University Sam Houston State University Hill College Vernon College Ranger College

Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page

09 10 17 20 25 33 36 39

Missouri; Arkansas; Kentucky; Tennessee; Mississippi; Alabama; Indiana; Eastern; Louisiana; Michigan; Ohio; Illinois; Georgia; and Michigan State University - East Lansing, MI.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION Southern Idaho; Utah

SOUTHERN REGION Eastern Texas; Western Louisiana

SOUTHWEST REGION New Mexico: Western Texas

WEST COAST REGION California; Nevada

Rodeo Events

Men's events: Bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding, steer wrestling, calf roping Women's events: barrel racing, breakaway roping, goat tying men's & Women's events: team roping

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JOEL KIRKPATRICK 2388 HWY 82 • Crosbyton, Texas 79322 806.697.2336 • jrtzkirkpatrick@hotmail.com

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - SHELBY SPIELMAN vICE PRESIDENT 1- KORY MCCONNELL vICE PRESIDENT 2- DYLAN MYERS SECRETARY/HISTORIAN - SIERRA WHITE

REGION I

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS

TED WHITE PO Box 341 • Happy, Texas 79042 806.764.3469 • ted.white99@yahoo.com SECRETARY - MIKEY DUGGAN PO Box 1414 • Canyon, Texas 79015 806.655.9910 • m.j.duggan@att.net

MICHELE SPIELMAN 12036 FM3139 • Dalhart, Texas 79022 806.570.7470 • spielman@xit.net PRESIDENT- STEvE MCCONNELL 425 CR 510 • Hereford, Texas 79045 806.346.2492 • stevem@wtrt.net

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

By kennady Johnson

C

“

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

ongratulations!

Today is your day.

You're off to Great Places!

You're off and away!

You have brains in your head.

You have feet in your shoes You can steer yourself any direction you choose.

You're on your own. And you know what you know.

And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go.

KID, YOU'LL MOVE MOUNTAINS! So... be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O'Shea, you're off to Great Places!

Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting.

So...get on your way!”

– Oh, the Places You’ll Go, Dr. Seuss Oh, the places the Texas High School Rodeo Association will take you! Every January the National High School Rodeo Association holds their annual MidWinter Meetings.

All the Texas High

School and Junior High officers had the privilege to fly out to Denver, Colorado and attend this event. We learned more about our association and more about our officer team. Although we went to attend meetings, it wasn’t strictly just business.

We quickly discovered that Denver is a little chillier than the winter temperatures we are used to in Texas, and none of us packed a jacket warm enough to withstand the fringed Colorado temperatures. The nigh we arrived everyone was welcomed with a reception and a live band where we all danced the night away. We quickly met other student officers from other states. We saw old friends and met new ones. That’s one of my favorite things about High School Rodeo; friendships are made that will last a life time.

The next morning we woke up bright and early to attend our first few meetings of the trip. It was a neat experience to see how such a large association prepares everything for the New Year. It is also truly an association for the kids. They make every decision with our best interest in mind, and they truly value our opinions. The National High School Rodeo Association and the Texas High School Rodeo Association is really forming great future leaders.

Like I said earlier, this trip just wasn’t strictly business. We spent our free time shopping, ice skating, and racking up tokens at Dave and Buster’s! But most importantly we all bonded as an officer team. I couldn’t think of a better group of people to spend my year as Miss Texas High School Rodeo with. They are truly a blessing and friends I will keep for the rest of my life.

I can’t thank the Texas High School Rodeo Association enough for all the opportunities they have given to me. They have opened doors and helped me build relationships that will benefit me down the road. If you are considering running for an office or for the Miss THSRA title I highly encourage you do so. Because, Oh the places you will go!

WCJC XtrmTmNws10x9.5O.indd 1

2/19/15 7:05 AM

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Foundation for Your Future!

Rodeo Director: Don-Ed Eddleman 325.214.0031 don.eddleman@cisco.edu

101 College Heights Cisco, Texas 76437

New This Year!

Sell 3 Bloomer Tickets and Get One Free That's right, if you sell 3 Bloomer Tickets, your family will get to enter one time for free! Claim this offer when your turn in your Bloomer tickets to your Region Secretary and she will give you a free ticket to put your families name on!

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The Final Ride

PO Box 843 • Andrews, Texas 79714 817.371.8882 • hooper9319@yahoo.com

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS MELISSA HOOPER

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - CADI WOOD vICE PRESIDENT - DELANI WOOD SECRETARY - MEGAN POWELL

2522 CR C3500 • Stanton, Texas 79782 432.940.1136 • woodrodeogirls@yahoo.com

KELLY WOOD

REGION II

SECRETARY - JODY MCELROY Box 224 • Balmorhea, Texas 79718 432.940.0385 • secretary@thsra2.com

2347 FM 829 • Stanton, Texas 79782 432.458.3439 • kwstewart93@gmail.com

KENNY STEWART

PRESIDENT- KENNY STEWART 2347 FM 829 • Stanton, Texas 79782 432.661.5084 • kwstewart93@gmail.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

By BRENNA HARTLEY – ARIAT Performance Reporter

A

s the spring semester of high school rodeo rapidly approaches, several members will be embarking upon their final few rodeos of their high school career. For some, this will be end of the road for their competitive rodeo lifestyle, but for others it has just begun. The seniors of region two will be saying farewell to the amazing family that the region has created, but will hopefully become part of a new family, regardless of whether or not rodeo will play a part in their future.

One senior, Sean Tucker, has decided not to give up the sport of rodeo just yet. He has chosen to attend Texas Tech University in the hopes of becoming a part of their college rodeo team next year. Even with this bright future ahead, Sean admits that he will definitely be leaving some good things behind following graduation. “The one thing I will miss the most about high school rodeo is leaving behind all of the friends I have made over the years,” Sean says. Blaise Freeman, a senior from Snyder, Texas, has also chosen to continue his rodeo career

SEAN TUCKER

into the college level. He plans on attending Western Texas College in Snyder, and will be on the rodeo team there.

Freeman also believes that the aspect of high school rodeo that he will miss the most is “definitely all of the great people I have met there.” Both of these contestants, along with many other seniors this year, know that it’s time to move on to bigger and better things, but will forever cherish the memories and friends that have been made here in Region 2.

There are other seniors this year, such as Cadi Wood, who may not have all the details worked out, but know that rodeo will continue to play a huge role throughout their lives. “I don’t know what college I would like to attend CADI WOOD just yet, but I do plan on continuing my rodeo career and hopefully advancing to the college national finals in the breakaway roping,” Wood states. “For now, I’m just taking it one step at a time and following my heart.” High school rodeo has taught Cadi several valuable lessons throughout the years about friendship, sportsmanship, and how to remain focused no matter what situation she’s in. “I have really enjoyed high school rodeo because it has given me a new outlook on the overall competition. I now know how to really step up when needed and also how to help those who need it,” Wood says. There are so many amazing lessons that can be learned from being a part of an amazing organization like high school rodeo, and Cadi has shown BLAISE FREEMAN that rodeo can be more than just a sport; more of a lifestyle.

Although it may be the end of the road for some contestants’ high school rodeo careers, they will be more than ready to take on the challenges of reality thanks to the irreplaceable lessons that can only be taught from a sport as great as this one. Rodeo is such a passionate sport that can help young people truly discover themselves, and learn how to accomplish anything they want in life. No matter what path we decide to follow, we can all rest assured that we will be equipped to handle whatever comes our way thanks to the wonderful blessing known as high school rodeo.

RegiOn ii 2014-2015 THSRA Rodeo Schedule 3/7 & 3/8/2015 | Sweetwater 3/14 & 3/15/2015 | Midland 3/27 - 3/29/2015 | Midland | Finals

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MIKE BRITAIN 645 CR 393 • Stephenville, Texas 76401 254.485.1170 • mjbfarmsinc@aol.com

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - TILLAR MURRAY vICE PRESIDENT - CHEYENNE BRITAIN SECRETARY - CATHERINE CLAYTON

REGION III

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS

FULTON MURRAY 7 Westover Road • Fort Worth, Texas 76107 214.789.4884 • jfmurray3@mac.com

940.365.1548 • mhairford@matadorresources.com

MATT HAIRFORD 6464 Paradise Drive • Aubrey, Texas 76227

PRESIDENT - MIKE BRITAIN 645 CR 393 • Stephenville, Texas 76401 254.595.0563 • mjbfarmsinc@aol.com SECRETARY - KELLEY WILLIAMS 8853 Greenhaven Dr. • Fort Worth, Texas 76179 817.706.8236• kelley.williams@thsra3.com

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

The Mind Game of Rodeo

By CHEYENNE BRITAIN

A

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

s many of you know, rodeo is definitely a physical sport, but it’s also just as much of a mental sport! It takes a lot of mental toughness to be able to not only compete at the best of your abilities, but to stay competing at the top of your game! There are lots of things that may start playing into your mental game, such as other competitors, the standings, how much money is at stake, and maybe even your parents, but another factor that can play a big part in keeping a positive outlook on things, is sustaining injuries that keep some competitors from being able to finish out the season! In the sport of rodeo, we see lots of athletes go out for a few months or maybe even the whole season from an injury they sustained while competing, and sometimes it may not even be from competing at a rodeo, but maybe a school sport, such as basketball, volleyball, softball, or anything else. Recently, one of Region III’s top goat tyers, Lariat Larner, sustained a torn ACL

and meniscus injury to her knee while playing basketball, which will keep her out of high school rodeo for the rest of the year. I got the opportunity to interview Lariat about what she’s doing to stay positive, and what she plans on doing to be at the top of her game next year! When asked, “How does an injury like this affect you mentally?” Her answer was, “When I first was delivered the news, I was furious that my future would be put on halt for a year, but I’ve begun to realize that if I want to get back faster, I have to have a positive attitude and work hard every day. An injury like this is almost all mental, as I’ve quickly realized the more I can encourage myself, the better the situation is.” “You being the positive, Christian person that you are, do you feel God has a reason behind this situation, even though it may not be easy to understand right now?”

“Yes, I do believe there is a reason, and every day I have to reassure myself that there is a plan and I just have to trust in Him. It’s definitely not easy to understand at all, and I often question it, but keeping friends and family around that are supportive helps me through each day.” “Like you said earlier, it’s difficult to stay positive with an injury like this, but what are some positives that you’ve realized out of this situation, if any?” “I’ve really been able to talk to God! I’ve found out who my true friends are, and how the power of friendship can go a long ways, and how family will always have your back. The people surrounding you are the most important as anything else.” As we’ve seen with some of the PRCA competitors, such as Joe Beaver with his knee injuries, and Luke Branquinho at last years’ NFR, when he had just shortly recovered from a shoulder injury, then came back and won the World Title, one thing they said, is when they came back they felt stronger than before. When I asked Lariat, “Do you feel you may even be able to come back stronger from this injury next year, both mentally and physically?” Her response was, “Yes, I truly believe I will, and that’s why I think there is a reason to this. I’m already so ready to come back! I’ll be having surgery around the second week of March and I cannot wait to get back on track to rehab. It’s becoming a refreshing experience, as I’ve had time to stop and take a look at everyone, which has made my love for all of my activities grow more than LARIAT PLAYING BASKETBALL FOR they were before. My goal is to come back with a bang THE STEPHENvILLE HONEY BEES! and shock everyone. That will be the exciting part!” Well Lariat, everyone at Region III is looking forward to watching you come back with a bang next year! We wish you a full and speedy recovery and are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers!

For the rest of you rodeo athletes, always remember, the best way to conquer the Mind Game, is to stay positive!

RegiOn iii 2014-2015 THSRA Rodeo Schedule 3/20 thru 3/22/2014 | Stephenville | Finals Friday night before Rodeos | Cuttings

LARIAT STEPPING OFF IN THE GOAT TYING AT A REGION III RODEO!

LEXIE RUSSELL

by Ava Anderson

The Whataburger Whatakid is selected due to their ability to excel both in and out of the rodeo arena. Whataburger is proud to recognize a THSRA member from each of the ten regions who truly upholds the title “Whatakid!” One of the nominees will be chosen at the State Final Rodeo in June as the Whatakid of the Year. In recognition of this accomplishment they will receive free Whataburgers for an entire year!

WIN OR LOSE, DON’T LOSE THE LESSON...

C

ongratulations to All-Around Cowgirl, Alexandra Blake Russell, better known as Lexie, for being selected as this month's WHATAKID! Ms. Russell's motto on life, that serves her well, and that she strongly abides by: Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Lexie is a fourteen-year-old freshmen, currently attending Alpha Omega Private Christian Academy, in Buchanan Dam, Texas. Prior to moving to the Buchanan Dam area, Ms. Russell was a member of the National Junior Honor Society and Valedictorian of a class of 222, at Liberty Hill Junior High, in Liberty Hill, Texas.

Lexie is proud to have made straight A’s her entire life, and gives her best efforts to every academic course she undertakes. Science is by far her favorite class and always has been, as she elaborates, "I like all forms of science from biology to chemistry. It's really interesting to learn about life and all processes involved."

Now, that the Russell family has moved out to the lake, Lexie gets to enjoy some marine biology so to speak, as she notes, "We recently moved out to the lake, and my sister’s favorite hobby is fishing, and I really enjoy the time I get to spend fishing with my sister."

It's clear to see, that one of Lexie's role models is her older sister as she states, "I played basketball through junior high and I liked it alot. My sister sets a great example on the court by giving her 'best game every game' and she's the toughest basketball player I know."

In her junior high years, Lexie not only enjoyed participating in basketball, but she also enjoyed competing in the junior high rodeo competitions and says, "I've been rodeoing for about five years now and it's always been the highlight of my month!

I was named All- Around Cowgirl my 8th grade year, at Region X." Besides, applying Philippians 4:13, as her main motto on life, she takes and applies this same scripture verse to her rodeo competitions, by telling herself, "I know that I am ready to face anything and everything at all times."

Lexie has another motto that she abides by, "I always tell myself while competing in the rodeo arena, "when or if you lose, don't lose the lesson" which keeps me positively pushing forward," said Lexie.

She goes on to state, "I fully understand that I cannot win every rodeo

entered, but I do my best to prepare myself beforehand in the practice pen, so I know I'm ready for the rodeo," said Lexie, "Whether, I win or lose, I take that lesson back to the practice pen and continue on with preparing myself for the next round of events or the next rodeo competition."

Russell has been fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from some of the older cowgirls like Samantha Chick, and others, as Lexie shares, "They've all been really nice to me, and it's been a great learning experience for me to be able to watch and admire their expertise in the arena. Some of them make it look so easy!"

Lexie also spoke of Sloan Townsend, "I am continously talking my mom or dad into hauling me over to Sloan's to rope or ride every chance I can get," said Lexie, "I love to practice, but it's even better when you do it with friends!"

Although, Lexie's favorite past-time is getting to rope with friends and family, she states, "I recently made the choice to stop playing basketball so that I could have more time to ride and rodeo, since caring for my horses takes up most of my free time."

This champion cowgirl has another great team of professionals that she works with on a full time basis, such as Barbie, a palomino mare

by Frenchman's Guy. The Russell family bought Barbie as a broodmare three years ago, not even knowing if she was broke. "We trained my barrel and pole horse with lots of help here and there, and with some great people like Jacque Woolman and Jennifer Starns, says Lexie, "both of these champions have helped me a lot to train and keep my horses working sharp."

Lexie also depends on a paint gelding that she's had for a about a year and a half. Hot Rod is her breakaway, head and heel goat horse, which they purchased from Emily Arnold, and Lexie says, "Hot Rod has made all the difference in my roping. I love to ride this horse, so practice is fun and he's a real character."

A day in the life of Lexie, starts out with chores and feeding the horses first thing every morning. Thereafter, her time is devoted to her academics and school work from about 8:30 am to 1:00 pm. The rest of the day, Lexie says, I spend riding and roping until there is no more daylight. At about 6:30 pm when the sun goes down, we bring the horses in and feed them, and finally call it a day."

Multiple times, Lexie says, "I've turned down a chance to hang out with my friends or go to the movies to utilize more time in the practice pen, which is not really that big of a sacrifice on my part, as I have been immensely blessed to be surrounded by family and friends that fully support me, and my desire to rodeo."

Ms. Russell also looks up to the Smith brothers in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, as she further states, "My family has known these folks for a very long time. Jake and Clay, put in countless hours in the practice pen. They prepare themselves to win, and know how to win. I would like to extend a big congratulations to these two champion cowboys for winning the 'Open to the World in Salado' this year. These brothers always remind me that a girl who can heel really good, will never have to work a real job – as she will always be in big demand!"

Another special family that Lexie highly appreciates and that she would like to give honorable mention to, would be none other than Myrl and Gayle Mortenson, who believe in her and support her with a sponsorship. " I could not do all that I do without my sponsors at Double Heart Ranch!" said Lexie, "I get a real kick out of wearing their brand on my shirt - 'Makes me feel like a pro'!"

Lexie would further like to thank her parents and sister which are huge rodeo fans and big supporters of her rodeo endeavors, "My family spends countless hours setting barrels, pushing calves, or just saddling horses for me on a daily basis. My sister is my number one cheer leader in the stands. My mom always has the video camera rolling, and my dad never misses a chance to tell me the score on my calf. I realize how blessed I am to have such a supportive family and without them, none of this would be possible for me."

Another one of Lexie's greatest supporters she would like to honor and recognize is her grandfather who passed away a couple of years ago. "My granddad was a race horse trainer, so he really enjoyed watching me barrel race. I can feel him looking over the grandstands in the heavenly arena, each and every time I enter the rodeo arena," said Lexie.

"My dad and I are in process of building a breeding program for fast barrel horses in my grandpa’s honor. We have a cloned stallion of Tailor Fit, the 2x AQHA World Champion Racing Horse and some other really exciting prospects coming!"

Lexie's father, Blake Russell currently serves as President of Via Gen, Inc. – which is a division of Trans Ova Genetics which is the industry’s premier source of cloning technology for all non-primate species. Blake joined ViaGen, Inc. as the Vice President of Sales and Business Development in January of 2006. Blake is responsible for the ViaGen's efforts to profitably deliver genomics and cloning services to the agribusiness sector worldwide.

Prior to joining ViaGen, Blake served on the management team of PIC, the world's largest suppliers of genetics to the swine industry, for more than 10 years. Blake's twenty year career in the swine genetics business included responsibilities in the sales, business development, marketing, operations, and general management. Blake has worked in more than 15 countries and carried P&L responsibilities for PIC businesses throughout the America's and Asia. Blake received his B.S. in Animal Science from Oklahoma State University and MBA from Emory University.

Breeding elite animals requires knowledge, strategy and patience. Today, the use of advanced reproductive technologies like cloning not only capitalizes on scientific advancements in breeding, it allows breeders to further utilize the best tools available to achieve and improve their genetic goals. ViaGen can help advance genetic opportunities by multiplying the very best in your herd. Breeders of elite animals can use genetic preservation and cloning as the newest tools in their strategic breeding programs. Cloning is a safe, progressive and beneficial means to preserve and extend the best genetics to positively influence future generations.

Like father, like daughter, Lexie also has plans to get a degree in animal science, but pursue a profession in the veterinary field instead, although she's not sure what college she would like to attend at this time.

In wrapping up this interview, Lexie quips, "I want to run barrels for the rest of my life and be involved in rodeo with my children and future family. I would not want to spend my days any other way!"

Whataburger, THSRA and rodeo fans would not want it any other way, either, and we wish Lexie must success in her future endeavors.

13

CHUCK SINKS 555 Sinks Road • Rockwall, Texas 75032 214.869.4719 • ssbarexcavating@aol.com

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - CAL WOLFE vICE PRESIDENT - CHEYENNE SWOOPE SECRETARY - KOLTON WHITE

SECRETARY - JULIE WHITE 2469 CR 33100 • Sumner, Texas 75486 903.737.7750 • julzjo66@yahoo.com

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS BILL CHINNERS 740 Jim Jones Rd • Van Alstyne, Texas 75495 903.482.0544 • wchhinners@aol.com

REGION Iv

CHAD FOLMAR 406 Briarwood Trail • Sulphur Springs, 75482 903.439.6412 • cwfolmar@gmail.com PRESIDENT- CHRIS WOLFE 630 E FM 813 • Palmer, Texas 75152 214.403.4638 • chris.wolfe@bldr.com

14

PERFORMANCE REPORT

consistency

By MCKENZIE RAY– ARIAT Performance Reporter

T

here's something about the end of the rodeo season that strikes a bittersweet chord in most of us. There's happiness for the end of a long year, and sadness too, for the same reason. As excitement grows for region finals, nerves and tensions grow with it. The season end is a stressful time for rodeo athletes, standings are checked nervously, and thoughts about making it to Abilene go into overdrive.

For most contestants though, preparation for the finals remains the same as for the rest of the year, with smooth consistency being a key factor. "Every run I make I try to have the same game plan," said Dlaney Prinz, a senior this year in Region IV, "I just try to focus and leave the rest in God's hands.

Whatever is meant to be will happen, and all I can do is give it 110%."

For others this kind of technique is tough to follow through on, "being consistent" is a more difficult concept than most people realize. Mental toughness doesn't just come overnight, and neither does consistency.

Both are things that are learned over time, and with lots of practice and perseverance.

Consistency is something that starts to show up in the standings during this time of year, and it's also the time where we start to watch those standings more closely, "As the finals inch closer, the standings determine how aggressive me and my partner need to be to continue to State." said Tyler Harris.

He's one of the many Region IV members

keeping track of his points as the season draws to a close, hoping to be in the top 10 by the time the year is through. "I keep a close eye on the standings after each rodeo," He continued, "it gives me and my partner a game plan for the next rodeo."

As we look towards the next few months ahead of us, it's important to remember that points and standings don't make or break you. 3X World Champion Heeler Jade Corkill once said, "Standings don't matter until the last day of the season." Worrying about where you're placing will only make things more stressful.

Relax, make a plan, and let the chips fall where they may.

DLANEY PRINZ photo by Jennings

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STUDENT OFFICERS

REGION v

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS GENE ARCENEAUX 13448 Coon Road • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.296.3818 • garceneaux@sigindserv.com

JEFF LUMMUS PO Box 646 • Orangefield, Texas 77639 409.313.7765 • jhlummus@yahoo.com

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PRESIDENT- GENE ARCENEAUX 13448 Coon Rd • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.296.3818 • garceneaux@sigindserv.com SECRETARY - PHYLLIS ARCENEAUX 13448 Coon Rd • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.656.8088• regionvsecretary@gmail.com

16

PERFORMANCE REPORT OUR SPORT, OUR HERITAGE AND OUR EQUINE PARTNERS viduals involved with PETA have never lived on a farm, and unlike the farmers, ranchers and PRCA cowboys have never depended on an animal for their income and livelihood, so how can they understand the love and devotion we

By HANNAH HEMPHILL – ARIAT Performance Reporter have for the health and welfare of Social Media is a buzz about the pend- our animals. Most people involved ing changes to the no Jerk down rule in ranching, rodeo or farming are SHILOH STONE & HIS HORSE NO-LIMIT implemented by the PRCA for tie the most empathetic, kind and caring people you could ever want to down calf ropers.

As our sport has evolved from small meet. Most Rodeo Families that I rodeos in small towns to big money know treat their animals like famevents in large cities we are sure to ily. The horses and livestock eat see many changes in our future. PETA before the family eats, their stalls or People for the Ethical Treatment of and enclosures are cleaned daily Animals is constantly involved manip- with fresh water, hay, fans, and ulating the media trying to show that access to veterinary care, heck if the sport of rodeo and the contestants you rodeo your vet is on speed dial. grossly mistreat their animals and their I can honestly say I wouldn’t mind livestock. I am sure most of the indi- being my horse, he lives better than I do, or at least his stall is a lot cleaner than my room most of HEATHER LOGAN’S HORSE TOOLE the time. Our horses ON HIS THERAPLATE and livestock are our partners, the tools to our success. The sport of rodeo and the PRCA value our equine partners and are humane, empathetic, and has the health and welfare of all animals involved as its upmost priority.

Many Region V members go to extreme measures to keep their animals at a perfect performance level. My horse Poncho swims HANNAH HEMPHILL WITH HORSES PANCHO & SASSIE each month at an equine spa, has a masseuse, and is on a special feed for peak performance, my roping horse Sassie has a therapeutic blanket, special feed and special shoes and I can promise you these things do not come cheap. Heather Loper who is one of our top barrel racers in Region V purchased a Theraplate machine and an Equiresp machine for her barrel horse Toole, which 4/11 & 4/12/2015 | Marshall | Finals keeps him in the top five at each rodeo…. If

RegiOn V 2014-2015 THSRA Rodeo Schedule

cost is any indication of the care we give our animals to keep them performing like top athletes then the age of the animals competing shows how well they are cared for. Shiloh Stone and Blaise Broussard of Region V bulldogging fame each ride and compete on horses older than 20 years of Age. Shiloh’s horse No-Limit is 25 years of age and has been on the rodeo trail since he was 6 competing and winning from youth rodeos to the Pro’s. Blaise’s horse Moses is 20 years old and has won numerous titles for Blaise and took more cowboys to the pay window than HEATHER LOPER & HER HORSE TOOLE you can keep track of, This GETTING HIS EQUIRESP TREATMENT in itself speaks volumes of how well our equine partners are cared for in and out of the arena. As rodeo contestants we make sacrifices for our equine partners to insure their health and comfort, this is not something that we learn from a book but something that is part of our western heritage that is taught to us by our parents as their parents before taught them. I try not to judge the Big City life that I don’t understand… such as subways, cabs, and living a life filled with concrete and no-grass, so I would ask for the same courtesy from those who have never walked in the farmer or ranchers boots while feeding, doctoring, pulling calves and insuring their future through their livestock and their land.

The sport of Rodeo and the Rodeo cowboy have the same goals and desires, which are to protect our heritage and preserve the Western lifestyle and I hope that as you read this article Region V, THE BIGGEST, THE BADDEST, THE BEST is doing our part to protect So until Next time….LET GO AND LET GOD

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THSRA & tjhra State Officers Visit san antonio stock show & rodeo

N

by McKenna Greene, THSRA State Vice President

ot only does San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo provide us with the top scholarship amounts for our Seniors every year, but they also create an experience for everyone to enjoy at their annual Stock Show and Rodeo. As an officer for two years in a row, I have made a lot of trips and San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is the best of the best! My fellow officers and I got the opportunity of a lifetime in working with some great kids at the Exceptional rodeo Friday evening.

Sponsored by our THSRA/ TJHRA partner, Whataburger we had the opportunity of coming alongside these amazing children and letting them be cowboys for the day. All of the staff and volunteers do such a great job of making sure the kids have the thrill they deserve!

After an evening at the Exceptional rodeo, we got to go watch the big dogs in the PRCA Rodeo at the AT&T Center!

We got to watch one of the most well put together and smooth flowing rodeos of the year. In fact, San Antonio has been voted the Top Large Indoor PRCA rodeo for 10 years in a row and it showed in everything they did both inside and outside the arena.

That following day we got to help at the Rodeo Experience Booth, working with the public and teaching them roping skills, stick horse barrel racing and much more. As an officer of THSRA, this is exactly

where we needed to be, educating the public about our great sport and promoting our association. The Rodeo Experience Booth is just another way that San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo supports and help today's youth and promotes the sport of rodeo.

During our time at the rodeo we had the opportunity to talk to Joe Hutchison and Cody Davenport, SALE Rodeo Executives about the future of SALE and the many ways they are expanding to incorporate youth events like the Youth Rodeo and the new addition of youth shooting sports. Towards the end of our time we were even surprised to meet with Four-time World Champion Bareback Rider, Bobby Mote. Mr. Mote did an interview with our Kennady Johnson, our Miss THSRA and that will be coming out in the next issue of the newspaper.

We would like to thank the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo for providing us with such an oppurtunity and we cannot wait to work even more with yall in the future!

23

www.getalittletwisted.com 24

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THSRA & tjhra State Officers Visit Fort Worth stock show

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by Kadie Beth Wisener, THSRA Student Officer

anuary 30, 2015 was full of exciting moments for the high school and junior high officers at the Fort Worth Stock Show. Our first stop was at the cowgirl hall of fame, we got to take a tour of the building and to hear stories of cowgirls all over be told. From there we were taken to the arena for a behind the chutes tour. We got to see all the work and technology used to make the rodeo happen.

Before the rodeo we were served with a wonderful barbeque dinner that was provided for us on the rodeo grounds. During the dinner, Kaci Riggs from our corporate sponsor, Resistol spoke to us about their company and what sets Resistol a part from other hat companies, specifically their 100 year history and their commitment to cowboys and THSRA/TJHRA. After dinner was over we went on to the rodeo. All of the officers had a wonderful time doing all of these wonderful activities and we would like to say a big thank you to Mr. Brad Barnes the president of the rodeo for making all these opportunities happen for use.

Fort Worth stock show was good to us!

26

Saturday morning the officers headed back to the stockshow grounds and meet with sponsors , cliff mulinax from McCoy's Building Supply and Chris Stinnett from Priefert Ranch Equipment to talk about their companies and learn about their products and stores. Mr. Stinnett gave a demonstration of their #1 selling product, their squeeze chute which has revolutionized the way ranchers work today. Then the officers headed over to meet with Kubota Tractors. David Murry and Sam Zimmerer talked to

the officers about how excited all the dealers are across Texas to be sponsors of THSRA and TJHRA. Mr. Zimmerer of Zimmerer Kubota talked to the officers about why Kubota is such a great brand. He has 5 dealerships and is the largest Kubota dealership in the nation.

We would like to thank all of the sponsors that took time to meet with us, we learned so much about each of their great companies and we appreciate their commitment to our association!

The folks at McCoy’s Building Supply understand that it takes a lot of hard work and the whole family pitching in to get things done on a farm or ranch. That’s why we’d like to take some time out to salute Texas High School Rodeo Association families who are farmers and ranchers. In our monthly Farm & Ranch Family Spotlight, we’ll feature one family, sharing their story of how they work together as a family to make their farm or ranch successful. The spotlight will run for 10 months; each month will feature a different region. Each Regional McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family will receive a $100 McCoy’s Gift Card. The McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family of the Year will receive a $500 McCoy’s Gift Card and will be announced at the 2015 THSRA State Finals.

T

The Bray Family of Region III

by Hailey Kinsel

he small town of Morgan Mill, Texas is home to Ken and Billie Bray, and their sons Paden and Wyatt Bray. Paden is a sophomore member of Texas High School Rodeo Association and competes in calf roping and team roping, while Wyatt is an eighth-grader and a member of Texas Junior High Rodeo Association, and competes in breakaway roping, calf roping, team roping, goat tying, and ribbon roping. Not only are both Bray boys avid rodeo competitors, but they come from a rodeo family -- Billie’s parents, Ken’s father, and Ken’s brothers, Craig and Kirk, competed in rodeo. Craig’s oldest son Cade Bray is a former THSRA member, and his son Brazes competes in THSRA’s shooting program; Kirk’s son Ky Bray is a senior and heads for Paden Bray at the high school rodeos, and his daughter Presli competes as well.

Just as the Bray family’s rodeo involvement is a family affair, their family business is a rodeo affair. As partners in the company EquiBrand, their day-to-day work is in the equine and rodeo industries -- Ken Bray is the company President, while Billie serves as the Marketing Director. EquiBrand, established in 1987, specializes in building performance products that help competitive horsemen and their equine athletes compete at their best. They are active in many organizations including National Reined Cow Horse Association, National Reining Horse Association, United States Team Roping Championships, Ultimate Calf Roping Association, Better Barrel Races, along with National High School Rodeo Association, and THSRA. Ken enjoys “working with talented, passionate, like-minded people” through EquiBrand in the rodeo industry, and he likes this competitive environment. While EquiBrand is a leader in equine performance sports products, Ken believes that everything they do can be improved, so they work daily to make those improvements. “In order to be good at what you do, you have to ‘get dirty,’” says Ken, when asked why he and his family prefer being able to work in an area they are familiar with. “To understand how the products are working, you have to get in the arena and use them.”

The Brays rodeo lifestyle ties in perfectly with their work, as everything they do recreationally is related to their business; if they are not working at an equine event, they can be found competing at one, and vice versa. Paden and Wyatt are not exempt from the labor themselves, because when their school schedules permit, they are part of the clean up, set-up, and tear-down crew for EquiBrand at the warehouse or at the events they work. Paden’s favorite part of the business is the rope shop, and his dream job would be to work there making sure

each rope turns out perfect, coupled with a career in rodeoing.

Paden and Wyatt have both been very successful in their young rodeo careers so far.

Paden was the TJHRA Region III team roping and breakaway roping champion, and qualified twice for the National Junior High Finals Rodeo. Recently, Paden won the #13 Shootout championship at the 2014 USTRC Finals in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Wyatt has won at USTRC and Ultimate Calf Roping events, and is currently leading the All Around, team roping, and ribbon roping standings in TJHRA Region III. Being involved in THSRA has a two-fold effect on the Bray family. Business wise, they believe THSRA is an investment in the future of the company, and feel like they have a responsibility to promote and grow the sport of rodeo. Family wise, Mr. WYATT BRAY and Mrs. Bray value that THSRA provides them with the opportunity to raise good kids who will learn how to win or lose, and allow them to be around people who will influence their sons in a positive way.

McCoy’s Building Supply plays an active role in the lives of this rodeo family. The Brays shop at their PADEN BRAY nearby McCoy’s store in Stephenville, Texas for various products, more for personal use, such as fencing supplies, feeders, and livestock equipment. Ken states that McCoy’s efforts to commercialize the farm and ranch industry will be successful, because they carry the right products, always have them in stock, and exercise excellent customer service, and he appreciates that kind of professionalism.

Thank you to the Bray family of Morgan Mill, Texas and Region III for contributing to the future of the sport of rodeo through EquiBrand, and for demonstrating the true meaning of the western lifestyle. Congratulations to this McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family of the Month!

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PRESIDENT - BAILEY BENNIGHT vICE PRESIDENT - LINDSEI HARvEY SECRETARY - MORGAN FAJKUS

STUDENT OFFICERS

STATE DIRECTORS WESLEY CALDWELL 3918 Kerr Creek Drive • Gonzales, TX 78629 830.672.3902 • wcaldwell@gvec.org

RIEDE MYRICK 154 Center Cove • Giddings, Texas 78942 979.542.2306 • riedemyrick@yahoo.com SECRETARY - NENA BOETTCHER PO Box 833 • East Bernard, Texas 77435 281.468.8973 • region6thsra@gmail.com

REGION vI

MATT MUELLER 1344 CR 203 • Paige, Texas 78659 979.966.9548 • circlemranch2008@yahoo.com PRESIDENT - BUBBA BENNIGHT 143 Bailey Blvd • Bastrop, Texas 78602 512.461.6091 • bubbabennight@yahoo.com

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

It's not just the horse

By CIERRA GOODE

H

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

igh school rodeo just isn't about the competition, who has the fastest horses, or about winning. It's about learning from your mistakes and your sportsmanship. Making bad runs doesn't always mean you lost, it means that the next time you run you know that you have fixed your mistakes.

When making bad runs we always assume it's the horses fault or the calves fault because the horse didn't

get you there. Then automatically the horse starts to get the frustration from the rider. But, more than likely it's the riders fault.

The rider is the one who controls the horse therefore, the horse is just doing what the rider tells the horse to do.

Sportsmanship is forgotten by many riders.

But it's very important TAYLOR LANGLE because the horses we ride shouldn't be treated with disrespect. After giving us their all with a run, no matter if it was good or bad we should be greatful to have horses as great as we do.

Sportsmanship is defined as proper consideration for fairness, ethics, respect, and a sense of fellowship with one’s competitors. In the sport of rodeo, sportsmanship is taken very seriously. With competition as hard as it is, it is hard to respect your horse when you make bad runs.

But, sometimes we need to put it in a different perspective. Such as, what if we were being jerked on. Putting it in this perspective makes us think about how we need to respect our horses even at the roughest times, like when we make bad runs. Our horses aren't just animals they are family. Respecting our horses should be a natural thing to do.

Next time a contestant makes a LOGAN MCCASLAND bad run remember that these horses do so much for you. Sportsmanship is a huge factor in rodeo. So next time you decide to jerk on your horse remember that these horses do so much for you and shouldn't be treated that way. No matter if it’s a good or bad run, your horse just gave you their all and should never be taken for granted.

RegiOn Vi 2014-2015 THSRA Rodeo Schedule

3/14 & 3/15/2015 | Gonzales

cotton george, Texas national director is awarded kenny ivester memorial Award for Outstanding Service to the nHSRA

e

ach year the National High School Rodeo Association, Inc. selects an individual, business or corporation which has contributed outstanding service to the organization in several different ways. Considerations include their commitment to the Association’s mission, their dedication to the members of the organization, their contributions of time, energy and volunteer hours, their generosity, hard work and overall service contributions to the Association and its members.

This year the recipient was our very own Cotton George, who serves as our Texas National Director and also serves on the National Executive Board. He was given the award during the NHSRA winter meeting in Denver with a very proud group of Texas leadership looking on. Texas is beyond blessed to have a man who has dedicated such a large part of his life to the betterment of our association.

The award is given in memory of Kenny Ivester who served the NHSRA as National Director from Wyoming for many years and was National President in 1981-82. In

1983, he was hired by the Association as the National Executive Secretary/ Treasurer, a position he held until his death in 1987.

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RIDING ON FAITH

PRESIDENT - KASSIE KERSH vICE PRESIDENT - BRADY BARHAM SECRETARY - MARCI RALEY

STUDENT OFFICERS

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS JOHN ATKINSON PO Box 540 • Anderson, Texas 77830 979.482.2018 • johnstephenatkinson@hotmail.com

MELISSA RALEY 6100 Hoddeville School Rd • Brenham, Texas 77823 979.830.0878 • melissaraley@texasbb.com

REGION vII

SECRETARY - ANNE DOLLERY PO Box 886 • Caldwell, Texas 77836 979.272.2249 • adollery@aol.com

RUSSELL BARHAM 8389 Oxford Cemetary Rd., Madisonville, Tx 77864 936.348.5994 • barham1965@gmail.com PRESIDENT- CLINT RAWLINSON 12432 N. SH 71 • El Campo, Texas 77437 979.637.0500 • rawlinsonclint@gmail.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

By SKYLER

R

STONE – ARIAT Performance Reporter

egion 7 is more than just a region. We are a family! Not only just a family, but a faithful family. Our rodeos are held on Sundays so in between rodeos we all gather together for church. Just like the Bible says in I Corinthians 12:12-13 “For as the body is one and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body….” God is a BIG part of us! Whether it’s hauling to and from rodeos, keeping us safe, keeping the livestock safe, or just blessing us to do the sport we love. He is with us every step of the way. Most of us don’t realize what the Good Lord does for us and that it is all part of his plan.

I love the fact that we have a Cowboy Church in Region 7. I believe it is great that not only do we get to do the sport we love, but we get to do it with the Good Lord by our side. We ride for ourselves but more importantly we ride for the Lord. Colossians 3:23 says “Whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord, and unto men.”

I know there are times when we just want to give up and quit, but everything happens for a reason. God my throw things at us unexpectedly, but he will never give us a battle too big to fight. If he brings us to it he will bring us through it! We may hit a barrel or miss our calf or get bucked off… but God has a reason for everything and he might

have something else bigger planned, plus there is always another rodeo. It is all part of Keeping the Faith. Jeremiah 29:11 says “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

I wanted to take the opportunity to introduce you to someone that helps lead the way in Faith for Region 7…..

Hi, my name is Kora Kneip and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Skyler Stone for allowing me to be a part of this article.

This year, and my family and I were asked to oversee the region 7 THSRA church service.

I was personally very excited because it merges three of my greatest passions: Jesus, my family, and rodeo. Having the opportunity to merge these three passions together under the environment of a church service makes mine, my famiKORA KNEIP lies, and Jesus' heart leap for joy.

In my family we are very passionate about sharing Jesus' love for people through our sports, in my case, rodeo. The THSRA Region 7 church service is an amazing way that Jesus can use us to share His love for people through rodeo. John 3:16 says that "God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life."

In my opinion that is what rodeo is all about, being able to share Jesus' love. It's not about winning or losing. Don't get me wrong I enjoy winning, Jesus is a winner. He has never lost but, like my pastor/pops, Sonny Rice always says: "rodeo can make you happy but if it's your source of joy we're in trouble!" Nehemiah 8:10 says that "The joy of The Lord is your strength and stronghold” .

I know from personal experience that even when your rodeo is not going quite like you had hoped it would, you can go into the church service and be lifted up, you can get so filled with the joy of The Lord that you are strong and ready for the rest of the rodeo, and even if it doesn't go like you planned, you can carry that joy home with you.

Hopefully there are other Regions out there that are passionate about Christ like we are here at Region 7!!! Good Luck and God Bless!!!

KORA KNEIP

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT: TANDY R. FREEMAN, M.D.

Meet the Official Sports Injury Doctor of Texas High School Rodeo

Expertise • Innovation • Education Tandy R. Freeman M.D. Sports Injuries

Arthroscopic and Reconstructive Surgery of the Knee, Shoulder, and Elbow

D

r. Tandy Freeman is a well renowned athletic trainer in the Rodeo Industry. He is the head of the Justin Sports Medicine team, and is also a sponsor of the Texas High School Rodeo Association. Tandy Freeman has treated some of the toughest and most severely injured cowboys and cowgirls in the world.

Originally from west Texas, Dr. Freeman has travelled all over the world treating patients in

Canada, Brazil, Mexico, and Australia as well as patients all over the United States. Dr. Tandy’s healing hands go much farther than the Rodeo World. He was also the team physician for the Dallas Mavericks, was orthopedic consultant to the Dallas Burn, team physician of the Dallas Freeze of the Central Hockey League, and has served as a member of the physician pool to the U.S. Ski Team.

At the Fort Worth Stockshow and Rodeo, Dr. Bill Ziegler was taping up the bullfighters making sure that they were prepared and properly stretched before performing, asking questions as he proceeded to be sure the athlete was comfortable and that everything was precise and correct. Along with taping the bullfighters “Zig” was also treating a rough stock rider who had been injured in a previous event. Rodeo athletes are very lucky to have athletic trainers such as these as sponsors of the Texas High School Rodeo Association. Not only do the athletic trainers treat the athletes when they’re hurt, they prepare athletes for an event properly to prevent injury. When asked what it takes to be an athletic trainer, Dr. Tandy replied replied honestly that it was a lot of work and you had to have some pretty high credentials to be able to serve with him, saying that there weren’t many employees on the team but many volunteers who are a big help. This should make us feel more comfortable that he was our state sponsor, especially with the history he has. Dr. Freeman was one of Texas Monthly’s Super doctors in 2008 and 2009. He was also a Western Heritage award Inductee in 2008, the Texas Circuit Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association man of the year in 2004, and has been inducted in the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame. Not only is Dr. Tandy an amazing doctor, but an amazing down to earth man as well that we hope everyone has the opportunity to meet, with or without injury.

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STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - LINDY SWAIM vICE PRESIDENT - ABBY SLAGLE SECRETARY - MATT GUTIERREZ KELLIE BEALL PO Box 1107 • Woodsboro, Texas 78393 361.220.2533 • cowgirlkellie@gmail.com

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS

KIM STEGMAN 5202 Foerster School • Needville, Tx 77461 979.793.6067 •kimstegman@aol.com

REGION vIII

PO Box 833 • East Bernard, Texas 77435 281.468.8973 • region8thsra@gmail.com

SECRETARY - NENA BOETTCHER

KEN SLAGLE 954 CR 140 • Floresville, Texas 78114 254.424.5833 • slaglekl@yahoo.com 115 Thompson Rd. • Jourdanton, Texas 78026 830.570.7754 • randy.watt@f-e-t.com

PRESIDENT- RANDY WATT

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

One Successful Year!!!

By Montana

A

Cox – ARIAT Performance Reporter

s the last rodeo comes closer our competitors practice harder than they have all year because they know this is it, this is the end. Our region is a very competitive region with a lot of tough contestants!

Ending the year we have had over 16 saddles and over 80 buckles donated to our region. All the saddles and buckles were donated by generous donors that we appreciate so very much.

REGION WINNERS INCLUDED: Daniel Brahman and Justin Delagarza- Team Roping

Call Brown- Steer Wrestling Brandon Lansford- Saddle Bronc Riding Sissy Winn- Pole Bending Davette Stegman- Girls Cutting Brooke Branscum- Goat Tying Cameron Crow- Calf Roping West Henderson- Boys Cutting Brett Garza- Bull Riding Montana Cox- Breakaway Roping Davette Stegman- Barrel Racing

ALL AROUND WINNERS: Davette Stegman- Girls All Around Logan Weeks- Boys All Around Mary Grace Bluntzer- Rookie Girl Brandon Lansford- Rookie Boy Region 8 is sending over 80 competitors to state finals in Abilene in June this summer. Good luck to all the contestants at state as we strive to be “Region 8, Best in State.”

★

HILL COLLEGE REBEL RODEO TEAM “We Build Champions”

★ 36 teams competed in CNFR in the ★ 20 Regional Team Championships ★ Home to Who’s Who list of top bull past 20 years. riders in the world ★ 40 plus rodeo members every year ★ Covered Arena! ★ 8 National Champions/7 Reserve National Championships Located in the Heart of Texas where we are close to everything!

Transferability to all major universities.

24/7 practice arena, practice stock, stalls, covered practice facility, paid travel for team members plus other benefits For more information contact: PAUL BROWN, HEAD COACH 254-659-7860 • 254.205.4055 (cell) | pdbrown@hillcollege.edu JAKE BROWN, ASST. COACH (254) 548-8021

www.hillcollege.edu ★ 112 lamar drive, hillsboro, texas 76645

Texas high school rodeo facebook page

T

Your source for insider information

his year, we will be utilizing our THSRA Facebook page more than one on your friend list! Our goal is to reach not only current members, but ever to bring you insider information into what is going on across alumni and those that love rodeo. each Region in the great state of Texas. Make sure that you and your family have all LIKED us on facebook so all of this information appears in TAG US IN YOUR RODEO PICTURES / VIDEOS your news feed and so you can view our pictures.

We want to see your rodeo pictures and videos from your latest region rodeo and your behind the scenes pictures at the State Finals! Upload your pictures and video and then “tag” THSRA, so all our friends can see you in HELP US MAKE NEW FRIENDS If you are already one of our friends please suggest our page to every- action.

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Rodeo Love

texas ram dealers

6717 FM 1452 • W. Madisonville, Texas 77864 979.268.4994 • jschueneman@shorthornres.com

PRESIDENT - JAKE HUGHES vICE PRESIDENT - MEGAN WRIGHT SECRETARY - HAILEY BRUENING

STUDENT OFFICERS

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS JOHN SCHUENEMAN

3951 CR 3385 • Lovelady, Texas 75851 936.348.0220 • starnsranch@windstream.net

CHRIS STARNS

SECRETARY - KIM ACKEL PO Box 67• Hamshire, Texas 77622

REGION IX

409.781.3902 • kimackel@thsra9.com

119 CR 451 • Buffalo, Texas 75831 903.388.6164 • j_w_westbrook@yahoo.com

PRESIDENT- EDDIE DYSON

JULIE JORDAN

204 CR 6763 • Dayton, Texas 77535 713.553.6421 • eddiedyson@thsra9.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

T

By KELSEY THOMPSON– ARIAT Performance Reporter

hey call February the month of love and I think Caldwell, TX could vouch for that, especially the weekend of Valentines Day. First we had the YRA Benefit for Region IX that Friday and Saturday, with a double High School Rodeo that Sunday. The amount of love that was felt during that weekend wasn't just me seeing Ms. Kim had a big bowl of candy once again in the announcers booth; it was how much the kids from the region volunteered at the YRA and when we realized the season was almost over... And if could speak for the Seniors myself, it was heartbreaking to hear Eddie make that last hour long speech Sunday about becoming a officer or that we have to wear WHITE... What did I say everyone? WHITE... for the finals! (Region IX members will get that one) But before heartbreak there is always joy, and thats what Region IX felt when so many members volunteered Friday and Saturday. It was all for our gain as a region and we can't thank YRA enough for giving us that

opportunity as well as everybody who helped!

The best part of it was around 8:30 Sunday night, there was a line of Region IX trailers all ready to continue their weekend at the San Antonio Youth Rodeo! We all made a pit stop at Bucky's, Mr. Hodges may have ran over a few cones while checking horses in, most of all we were trying not to fall asleep; but we made it their eventually safe and sound! And we didn't come to play!!! We had KELSEY THOMPSON AND TACY WEBB BEFORE PRESENTATIONS Tacy Webb as the CHAMPION Goat Tyer, Kelsey Thompson as the CHAMPION Barrel Racer, and Megan Wright as the ALL-AROUND GIRL!! Megan placed 7th in Poles, 3rd in Barrels, 5th in Goat Tying, and 6th in Breakaway! We froze, every single one of us almost got towed, we made it out though on top! I know we all are so proud of these girls as well as all members that competed!

Lastly, our Finals will be held in Crockett on March 21 with the order being; Steer Wrestling, Pole Bending, Bareback, Breakaway, Tie Down, Saddle Bronc, Goat Tying, Team Roping, Barrel Racing, and Bull Riding. A question I would be asking if reading this is definitely "Who has the leads coming into the finals Kelsey?!"

Here they are: Steer Wrestling- John Douch Pole Bending- Carly Staggs Bareback- Dustin Brewster Breakaway- Jake Hughes Tie Down- John Douch & Wyatt Imus Saddle Bronc- Colby Winfrey Goat Tying- Tacy Webb Team Roping- Hayden Rasco & Lane Ardoin Barrel Racing- Kelsey Thompson Bull Riding- Tristan Mize You're welcome!! Now before going into our last rodeo of the year, I hope that this rodeo season was the best one yet for you. I hope you have no regrets and High School Rodeo helped you achieve or accomplish something you've yearned for. And if you're a Senior, make your last rodeo, your BEST RODEO. Because we will only have this moment once, so take advantage of it.

RegiOn iX 2014-2015 THSRA Rodeo Schedule 3/21/2015 | Crockett | Finals

Club Car’s Chute Boss Signs on With NHSRA

R

anker than an eight-second ride and more fun than a smoking barrel run, Club Car’s Chute Boss is set to redefine the utility vehicle market for ranchers, farmers ,rodeo enthusiasts and professionals. And the best part is that the Club Car’s long-term commitment to high school rodeo means NHSRA members will benefit every time a Chute Boss leaves the sales floor.

An on-board air compressor shares space with an 120v external power outlet and a duel USB charge connection in a four-wheel drive vehicle that is available in a side by side as well as a four adult passengers version. A front hydraulic system (Intellitach) opens up an unlimited assortment of attachment options from forks to a material bucket.

What it all means is that this one machine can handle everything from moving hay and powering air tools to running the curling iron for last-minute touch-ups on a rodeo queen’s hair. That kind of versatility makes the Chute Boss more than just a utility vehicle. Instead, it’s a NEW BREED of Ranch Tool; one specifically designed for the lives lived everyday by NHSRA members and others in the agriculture and construction industries.

“This is the result of a lot of effort and getting the feedback needed to build the

right vehicle,” said Ryan McClellan, Club Car’s leader of global strategic accounts. “There’s really not a vehicle out there that can function as a ranch tool the way this vehicle can. This is a vehicle that will allow single operators, as well as large producers, to get more done in less time. And that’s something we are all looking for in an ever growing list of work that needs to be done.

Months of conversations with NHSRA representatives and industry leaders led to a finished product from Club Car that was unveiled at the NHSRA Mid-Winter Meetings in Denver in late January. Members of the NHSRA board of directors, student officers, sponsors and others all had a chance to examine the Chute Boss first-hand.

The Chute Boss features a 719cc, liquid-cooled, 3-cylinder, Kubota industrial grade diesel engine, rack & pinion steering, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes.

“We’ll take the feedback we received at the NHSRA Mid-Winter Meetings and finalize everything on the design,” said McClellan. “Within the next few months, we will launch the Chute Boss in the market and go into full-scale production.”

One thing that comes standard in all Club Car vehicles is a smooth, comfortable ride. The Chute Boss is no exception, but also comes standard with fourwheel drive. As well as Independent double A-arms w/coil-over shocks; Rear Suspension: Swingarm w/coil-over shocks.

Working on rough terrain is easy with IntelliTrak – Club Car’s automatically engaging, all-wheel drive system, which senses the ground you’re on and engages four-wheel drive as needed. With other vehicles, drivers must manually engage the locking differential with a button or lever. But with IntelliTrak, just select “forward” or “reverse” and the system does the rest.

“The response we received included, ‘Wow, you’ve really thought of everything,’” McClellan said. “That’s reassuring, and gives us confidence that we have truly created the first ranch-ready vehicle/tool.”

Built with a strong aircraft-grade aluminum frame that won’t rust, the Chute Boss features a cargo bed that can transport up to 800 pounds of cargo and dumps the load with the push of a button. Power steering – which makes the four-passenger vehicle easy to turn – is standard.

“We think the Chute Boss is a great vehicle, and certainly we’re proud that it carries the NHSRA brand,” said NHSRA Executive Director James Higginbotham. “We know this long-term partnership will be beneficial for both high school rodeo and Club Car.”

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Kelly Armstrong Trevor Brazile Brady Brock Joe Day Isaac Diaz Johnny Emmons D.V. Fennell Royce Ford Mickey Gomez

Tommy Guy Jake Hannum Pete Hawkins Kyle Hughes Cooper Kanngeisser Kory Koontz Jim Locke Will Lowe John Paul Lucero

See your local Kubota dealer for exciting offers on these products!

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Justin McDaniel Angie Meadors Ivon Nelson Cody Ohl Charles Pogue Tyler Smith Molly Swanson-Powell Turtle Powell Matt Shiozawa

Rich Skelton Stran Smith Cade Swor J.R. Vezain Cheyenne Wimberly Walls Tyler Willis Colby Yates

•High fat content to meet the energy needs of performance horses •Copper, zinc, and organic selenium for an improved immune system •Fortified with probiotics for improved digestion, health, appearance, and overall performance •Soybean oil for a high linoleic acid content with contributes to an improved hair coat •Chelated Minerals which are more easily absorbed into the bloodstream than inorganic mineral sources •Great cherry flavor that horses love

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - CLINT WEBSTER vICE PRESIDENT - KATIE KEITH SeCReTARy/TReS. - kAMBRiA MCdoUgAl vANESSA HALFORD 1817 CR 177 • Stephenville, TX 76401 254.595.1211 • vanessa.halford@sville.us

JOSEPH THOMAS 4312 Conveyor Drive • Burleson, Tx 76028 817.454.2059 • jthomas@chemical.com SECRETARY - ANGELIA CUDD 150 CR 327 • Gatesville, Texas 76528 254.394.3888• cuddranch@yahoo.com

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS

JAMIE MCDOUGAL 3046 Dusk Drive • Weatherford, Tx 76088 817.598.9560 • jthomas@chemical.com PRESIDENT - JERRY WRIGHT 434 CR 315 • Oglesby, Texas 76561 254.290.4965 • jerrywrighthomes@hughes.net

PERFORMANCE REPORT

Who Will Be the Champion?

By BROOKE

B

BOILES– ARIAT Performance Reporter

y time you're reading this, the 2014 and 2015 rodeo season will have come to an end. At our latest rodeo February 14th and 15th, a change in the leader board had definitely taken place. At the Sunday rodeo, Daniel Keeping took the win in the bull riding, and Parker Fleet in the Saddle Bronc.

In the pole bending Heidy Sieperda took first with a smoking 20.618.

Clayton Coone took first in the tie-down and Katie Keith won the breakaway. Running a 16.477 in the Barrels was Kambria McDougal to not only win the Sunday Rodeo but add onto her lead for the year end standings. Madisen Goforth won the goat tying, and the Willberg brothers, Tyler and Brett took the win in the team roping.

TYLER & BRETT WILLBERG

Theodore Roosevelt once said, "It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds...." Many things can be taken from those with wisdom, but without experience self created wisdom is scarce. Time is too precious to be wasting it worrying or stressing over a bad run. Take away from it what you did wrong, what you could have done better, and then learn from it. The Lord says, "...but my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9.

So now as the focus has shifted over to state finals, come June we will see who has RegiOn X done what it takes to be a champion. We will 2014-2015 THSRA Rodeo Schedule see who took the time to grind with the stands empty in order to shine while they are full.

Safe travels to everybody and God bless!

3/7 & 3/8/2015 | Hamilton | Finals

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Ranger College is located in the small town of Ranger Texas and is located 80 miles west of Fort Worth on Interstate 20. It sits in the heart of rodeo country. Established in 1925, the school has a rich history of academics, sports and community involvement. With a little over 2000 students, the facility/student ratio is small and personalized.

Head coach Llew Rust, a previous NIRA member, attended the College National finals (CNFR) three times. As a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, he competed in the calf roping, steer wrestling, and team roping. This experience enables him to assist his team members in their different events while allowing them to continue to develop their own skills.

Assistant coach Katey Anthony attend the 2013 CNFR in the goat tying and breakaway roping ending up 4th in the breakaway. She has won numerous breakaway and team roping titles including the 13 Shootout at the USTRC finals.

As past national champions, we strive to uphold our winning tradition. Here at Ranger College, success is promoted not only in the arena, but in the classroom as well.

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JUNIOR HIGH

Texas Junior HigH rodeo associaTion news leTTeR fROm THe TjHRA SecReTARY

D

ear JH Contestants and Families, I don’t know about you, but this year like in the past is just flying by. When you get this article this month some of you will be finished or finishing up the 201415 Region Rodeo season, it seems like we just started yesterday! These winter days have brought some changes to my life and I am looking forward to the new opportunities that I have been given.

I will be helping the City of Gonzales of planning for the finals this year and hopefully putting things together around the Gonzales arena that will take them to the next phase of rodeo. This will be a busy month so we will be prepared for the months ahead of us.

The officers and myself attended the Midwinter conference in Denver at the end of January, we all were able to bond as a working officer team. When we got there the snow was coming down pretty good, so we did get to see that white stuff! During the first dinner we attended out came the selfie stick…yes Texas was known for their selfie stick! I wish we would have brought more, we could have cashed in, everyone wanted one. I will say it came in very handy at times, especially when we all had our picture taken in Luke Branquinho.

The student officers attended meetings that involved youth activities at the National Finals and Abbie Suggs was able to attend some Queen information meetings. It is great for the officers to see how much goes into planning the finals, lots of meetings. On Saturday morning we all go to the final board meeting, this is where all the little meetings come together and have the vote on the new rules and ideas that have been talked about all week. There are some big changes in the rough stock arenas, as for right now what we need to stress is if you are participating in the two new rough stock events Bareback on steers and Saddlebronc on steers you MUST WEAR A FACE MASK AT THE TEXAS JUNIOR HIGH STATE FINALS and from then on while participating in the association.

As I always remind you – don’t wait until the last minute to talk to your school about attending the state finals. More than likely you will still be in school when the finals roll around, start talking to your school now. If you need a letter for your school do not hesitate to contact me.

Looking forward to the spring days ahead, see you all soon.

Anne Dollery TJHRA Secretary

www.tjhra.org 41

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News

Go get ‘em Red Hot Region III!

W

hat a fun year it has been at Region III in the Jr. High division! We started our year in Graham with 6 rodeos in the fall and have moved to Stephenville to finish up the last few rodeos and compete in our Region Finals.

The competition has been fierce and no one is letting up. The girls all-around race is proving to be one of the toughest we can remember. Sydney Munster is currently in the lead with 1615 pts, Rylee Wells is right on her heels with 1600 pts., and Carsyn Bailey is only 10 points behind her with 1590 pts. Our rookies are not to be outdone either with Rylee Hardin and Aubrey Mitchell in a super, tight race as well. There are only 25 points separating them. We can’t wait to watch these girls fight to end and know

By

paige clayton – TJHRA Reg. III Student President

sydney munster

we will be well represented at the State Finals in Gonzales. In the boys all-around race, Wyatt Bray is currently in the lead with 2280 pts. Chisum Allen is in 2nd with 2020 pts., and rookie Joel Braden Harris is making his presence be known with 1895 pts. The new, boys events have been fun and exciting to watch this year. Cale Newman and Tallan Miller will be representing us in the Jr. Steer Saddlebronc and Kade Berry is our Jr. Steer Bareback rider. All of our events are too close to call at this point, with only a few points separating the top 10. It will definitely come down to the last run to know who our Champions will be and exactly who will be representing us at State Finals, but one thing we do know is, they are all ready and know what it takes to become a State Champion and National Qualifier.

Go get ‘em Red Hot Region III!

rylee wells

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mason rust, header & chisum allen, heeler

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News

fearless IV!

By Cutter Cash Carpenter – TJHRA Region IV President

C

ontestants, Parents, Officers and Directors: Here we are for the end of Region IV’s 2014-2015 season. We will be crowning the champions of Region IV and the top ten in each event will be announced as state finalist at our Region IV Finals .

Preparation will be the main factor when crowning the champions - the cowboys and cowgirls who have prepared themselves and their horses the most throughout this season will have the best shot at taking home the saddles and the champion titles.

As Joe Beaver says “there is a difference in losing and getting beat”. Losing is showing up to compete and not winning because you did nothing to prepare yourself for the competition. Getting beat is preparing to the best of your ability and not winning because someone else was better than you at that time. Don’t be a loser - prepare yourself for the competition and make them work to beat you.

We will be heading to Gonzales at the end of May (Yes! We get to miss the last week of school) for the Texas Junior High State Finals. For those of you that have

never been, the most important thing to know is Texas is one of the toughest rodeo states in the country - PREPARE YOURSELF for the competition. Spend an extra hour in the practice pen each night roping a few more calves/steers, tying a few more goats, scoring more on your horse. This will separate you from the rest and put you with the best of the best. Remember hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. Push yourself harder and put in those extra hours so you will earn one of those highly sought after spots on the Texas National Team!

In closing I would like to thank all the directors, officers and volunteers for all you do to make Region IV a great place to compete. To my parents, thank you for the huge amount of time you spend with me in the practice pen and the time you spend hauling me everywhere. Thank you for the financial sacrifices you make and the support you give me to help me reach my goals.

Contestants, I leave you with these words: Be Your Best! Dream Big! FEARLESS 4!!!!!

TJHSRA Region IV AA Leaders BOYS 1) Cutter Carpenter 334 2) Ty Rhodes 262

ROOKIE

Kincade Henry 182 Kolton Green 116

GIRLS

1) Jessee Young 2) Peyton Cooper

230 213

Harley Jo Chaffin Gracey Brockway

169 121

ROOKIE

2014-2015 JUNIOR HIGH STATE DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE BOARD NATIONAL DIRECTOR JOHN E. BLAND

940-537-1354

jeblandnspade@yahoo.com

PRESIDENT VICKIE JAROSEK

254-774-8303

vickie@bettertreesoftexas.com

1ST VICE-PRESIDENT TONY LACINA

806-676-1042

nobaro@sbcglobal.net

DELEGATE JOHN ATKINSON 979-482-2018

DELEGATE CINDY CLAYTON 254-485-9466

midtexlivestock@hotmail.com clayton@our-town.com

DELEGATE BRAD CRONE

409-296-3686

dps2422@aol.com

DELEGATE AMANDA GORHAM

830-676-3373

gypsydoll75@yahoo.com

DELEGATE JASON KEY

936-558-8326

key.jason@ymail.com

DELEGATE CHUCK SINKS 972-771-5721 ssbarexcavating@aol.com

SECRETARY ANNE DOLLERY 979-272-2249 adollery@aol.com

STATE DIRECTORS

REGION I GARY FIELDS CHAD HIATT ROBB WELLS

gsfields@fivearea.com chad.hiatt@yahoo.com Robb_Wells45@yahoo.com

806-946-6138 806-676-4402 806-346-5109

REGION II CASEY BAIZE 512-618-9233 CLINT GRIFFIN 325-226-0430 CHUCK SENTER 806-562-0041

REGION III MIKE BRITAIN 254-595-0563 KEN BRAY 817-219-0436

mjbfarmsinc@aol.com kbray@equibrand.com

REGION IV DAVE CLARK MATT INGLE

tricbad@embarqmail.com ingleropehorses@gmail.com

903-880-5919 903-355-8318

REGION V DAVID COGBILL 409-781-8254 Joe Glen Kahla 409-489-1012 JEFF PARSLEY 903-842-4720

REGION VI NATALIE BENNIGHT 513-304-8507 DANNY DUCKETT 512-289-0724 CLAY BASS 512-847-5056 REGION VII CHRIS OATES DEE ANN RAWLINSON SCOTT SHOOK

936-661-1783 979-578-1420 281-437-8214

csbaize@yahoo.com cgriffin@kgelaw.com csenter@FirstBankLubbock.com

dlcogbill@icloud.com jgk@mklawyers.com jparsleygeraniums@earthlink.net nbennight@yahoo.com Dkconcreteconstruction@gmail.com

Construction.BASS@yahoo.com chrisoates@sbcglobal.net drawlinson@reatarealty.com scottshook@yahoo.com

REGION VIII MATT SCIBA 361-571-7888 matt@lifepointevictoria.com BILL SCIBA 361-582-6711 bill_sciba@yahoo.com JASON UNDERBRINK 210-854-7718 jasonunderbrink@yahoo.com

REGION IX DON EDWARDS 281-387-8383 Edwards_Saddles@yahoo.com MIKE GHORMLEY 281-785-0077 mghormley@me.com JOHN SCHUENEMAN 979-268-4994 jschueneman@shorthornres.com

REGION X RENEE WHITE 512-217-8165 weitzrr@gmail.com JOHN DOWNING 254-770-7064 cdowning@vvm.com ANTHONY WILLIAMS 512-269-9903 jwilliams852@yahoo.com

STUDENT OFFICERS

PRESIDENT AVERY SULAK

V.PRES MAKENNA SHOOK

SECRETARY KATE JOHNSON

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