Chasing Glory:SHSU Rodeo Team's Quest for National Excellence

The National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) was established in 1949. Over the years, the NIRA has expanded from three regions to eleven across the United States.

The College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) is a dream competition for rodeo enthusiasts. For over 20 years, the CNFR has awarded championship titles in saddle bronc riding, breakaway roping, bull riding, bareback riding, tie-down roping, team roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and goat tying.

Every year in Casper, Wyoming, more than 400 competitors from over 100 universities and colleges vie to claim a championship buckle.

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) has consistently been one of the strongest contenders in the Southern Region and within the NIRA. Coach Bubba Miller strategically assembles a team known for excellence inside and outside the rodeo arena.

The SHSU Rodeo Team was established in 1950, with Coach Bubba Miller taking the reins in 2008. Under his guidance, many team members have gone on to achieve success in the rodeo industry. Miller remarked, “Many students have come through our program and gone on to achieve great things, including careers in journalism like working for the Madisonville Meteor.”

For the 2023-2024 season, the SHSU Rodeo Team boasts a talented group of competitors ready to represent the university.

Senior Kristin Reeves, a two-time College National Finals Rodeo qualifier, earned the title of Reserve Champion Goat Tyer in the Southern Region last year and made her presence known in Casper, Wyoming, returning to the short-go high call.

Junior Aspen Miller, a three-year participant in team roping breakaway and a contender on the pro rodeo circuit, expressed her pride in representing the school during her travels.

The Sam Houston Rodeo has also welcomed a group of talented first-year competitors. Freshmen Hannah Bass and Colin Fox conveyed their excitement about the upcoming season.

Fox set ambitious goals: “My aim is to qualify for the college finals in two events and improve my practice schedule discipline.” Hannah, specializing in breakaway roping, aspires to achieve placements at each college rodeo.

Head Coach Bubba Miller anticipates an exciting year for his Bearkats, saying, “We’re aiming for many victories.” Sam Houston State University will host its hometown rodeo on November 10th and 11th at the new Gibbs Ranch facility.