Young Rodeo Talent Shines in Texas' TJHRA Competition

Rodeo is a cherished tradition in Texas, extending its influence even to the younger generation. The Texas Junior High Rodeo Association, established in 2004 by the National High School Rodeo Association, offers a platform for young competitors to hone their skills.

With ten regions spanning the state, TJHRA welcomes over 850 members ranging from 5th to 8th graders, providing them a valuable steppingstone.

Membership in TJHRA demands more than mere participation in the arena. Members must maintain passing grades of at least 70% in their classes while being enrolled as full-time students. Even homeschooled students can join, provided they furnish evidence of full-time student status along with a grade report.

Additionally, members are obliged to engage in fundraising activities, which may include selling raffle tickets and advertisements. These efforts contribute to the acquisition of awards.

The 2023-2024 rodeo season commenced for Region 9 at the Burleson County Fairgrounds in Caldwell on Oct. 7. The inaugural rodeo brought together 69 junior high students, offering them an opportunity to learn, compete, and, most importantly, have fun.

Among the talented TJHRA members is Cort Stapleton, affectionately known as “Baby.” At the age of 11 and a 6th grader at Madisonville Junior High, Stapleton embarks on his second year of competition in Region 9.

In his rookie year, Stapleton achieved numerous accomplishments, including qualification for the Texas Junior High State Finals in goat tying and team roping. This year, he aspires to expand his repertoire by participating in tie-down roping and chute dogging, in addition to goat tying, team roping, ribbon roping, and breakaway roping. Stapleton’s rodeo journey began early in life. He attended his first rodeo at just 4 weeks old and has been riding horses since before he could walk. Alongside his brothers, Luke and the author of this piece, Stapleton has ventured into rodeo competitions across the country, showcasing his growth as a competitive force.

Team roping holds a special place in Stapleton heart. Teaming up with his trusty horse, Shiner, he has achieved significant success on the heel side. In November 2022, Stapleton secured his first saddle at the Fire It Up rodeo, ranking 4th out of a field of over 400 ropers. His prowess continued in July when he emerged as the victor at the Leon County Youth Rodeo.

During the recent weekend, Stapleton demonstrated his skills in goat tying, chute dogging, tie-down roping, and breakaway roping, accumulating valuable points that bring him closer to a championship saddle by the end of the year.

Stapleton shared his aspirations, saying, “I want to win the all-around. The first rodeo in two new events was hard, but I’m really excited for everything. Cedrick has helped me a lot with my horse and my calf tying, I was happy he came to the rodeo to watch me.”

“Baby has made so much progress in the past month it is insane. He is a great kid to work with. He tries his hardest at anything I tell him to do,” said Cedrick Brice.

Stapleton has received valuable support from Madisonville natives, including Cedrick Brice, John Schueneman, Colby Lovell, and their dad, Lane Stapleton. These mentors have all played a role in shaping Stapleton into the accomplished competitor he is today.

As the year progresses, there is much anticipation to witness Stapleton journey and the accomplishments of all the athletes in Region 9.