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

FOUNDER’S INVITATIONAL ALL AROUND COWBOY AND COWGIRL

sPonsor sPoTLigHTs:

JAY TERRELL & DELANI WOOD photo by Jennings

KADIE BETH WISENER

RANCH FAMILY: THE CHAMPION FAMILY PRSRT STD STD PRSRT US POSTAGE POSTAGE US PAID PAID BRYAN TX TX 77802 77802 BRYAN PERMIT ## 23 23 PERMIT

PRESRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FULTEK

2016 STATE FINALS INFO

HUNTING ISSUE

Introducing the Catalyst VX.

Champion roper Brady Norman knows that Ariat’s revolutionary new technology will give him a running start.

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Catalyst VX boot and M5 denim

Š 2014 Ariat Inte I rnational, Inc. I

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4 EXTREME TEAM SPORTS – NOVEMBER ISSUE – PAGE – CV-CW1 – NO TAGGING – RE-SUBMISSION 500 HARRISON AVE, 5F, BOSTON, MA 02118

JOB #/FILE NAME

7280WS_EXTREMETEAMSPORTS_NOV_P_M2

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FINAL APPROVAL

INITIALS: ______ DATE: _________

eXecutive board state president steve dickey

po box 862, centerville, TX 75833 903.536.4098 (home) steve@txriatarealty.com

in this issue

eXtreme team news official publication of the Texas high school rodeo association

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

HoLLy deLaune marketing Director

1st vice president mike cook

830.815.1800 • delaune.holly@gmail.com

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

Lauren tuttLe stumberg

2nd vice president aLan boHLen

page 03

po Drawer 468 • hondo, TX 78861 830.741.4485 • alanbohlen@yahoo.com

secretary/treasurer susan baLdwin

graphics/layout Director lauren@distinct-graphics.com 830.249.8020

ava anderson

advertising ava.anderson@yahoo.com 830.540.3737(h) • 512.576.2275(c)

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

704 1/2 southview circle • center, TX 75935 936.590.4447 texashighschoolrodeo@gmail.com

brian roberts

computer programmer brian.roberts53@att.net 281.213.9143

nationaL director cotton george

po box 30 • martinsville, TX 75958 936.564.8993 (home) cottongeorgetx@gmail.com

junior HigH nationaL director joHn bLand po box 112 • Turkey, TX 79261 806.220.7108 • jeblandnspade@yahoo.com

page 06

marketing HoLLy deLaune

73 breeze Way, boerne, TX 78006 830.815.1800 delaune.holly@gmail.com

deLegates at Large mikey duggan

po box 1414 • canyon, TX 79015 806.655.9910 • m.j.duggan@att.net

region i

aubrie fieLds

2016 STATE FINALS INFO page 09

Queen coordinator dee dee dunda

8819 holiday Drive • odessa, TX 79765 432-413-2358 • prettywoman1965@hotmail.com

ariat performance reporters region ii

bLiss boLton region iii

sawyer prZiLas region iv

2ND ANNUAL FOUNDERS INVITATIONAL RODEO page 20

mckenZie ray region v

HannaH HempHiLL region vi

Lauren keene region vii

brandi bratton region viii

HUNTING SECTION

meLissa garcia region iX

emaLee Hoffmann region X

page 22

brooke boiLes

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

kadie betH wisener- page 31

bubba bennigHt

143 bailey blvd. • bastrop, TX 78602 512.461.6091 • bubbabennight@yahoo.com

rancH famiLy: tHe cHampion famiLy page 37

robert sbruscH

821 manor Drive • angleton, TX 77515 979.848.3805 • sbrusch@sbcglobal.net

student officers

thsraofficers@hotmail.com student president cullen eppright student vice president raelee Self student secretary ima champion Queen chloe costello

region

news

region region region region region

i ii iii iv v

08 10 12 14 16

region region region region region

vi vii viii iX X

teXas junior HigH division 33

18 25 26 28 30

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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Drawing upon the careers and backgrounds of individuals engaged in horse racing, rodeo and show activities. Pro View brings the perfect solution for security and surveillance for anyone from families to professionals. Pro View is here to help you protect your horses and you while you get on with enjoying the life that has become your passion.

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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 state directors / region officers

ted wHite po box 341 • happy, Texas 79042 806.764.3469 • ted.white99@yahoo.com secretary - debra dorenkamp 27116 cr jj • holly, co 81047 719.688.0154 • tristatehsrodeo@gmail.com

region i

micHeLe spieLman 12036 Fm3139 • Dalhart, Texas 79022 806.570.7470 • spielman@xit.net president- travis patterson 11943 cr 27 • spearman, Texas 79081 806.659.3339 • tpatterson@npec.org

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

REGION ONE AT HALLETTSVILLE

by aubrie Fields

H

– ariat performance reporter

allettsville was a success for Region One with 26 contestants making the trip. Making it in the barrels: Avry Thelander, Carly Christian, Holly Wright, Rilee Didway, and Brogan Macy.

In tie down, Cy Frizzell Quade Hiatt, Jace Evan Bland, Jabin Rice, and True Lacina. Breakaway roping Holly Wright, Rilee Didway, Kelsey Espenson, and Brogan Macy. One saddle bronc rider, Brady Fields. Goat tying, Matty Wells, Carly Christian, and Kelsey Espenson. Team roping, Jabin Rice and Quade Hiatt, Jace Evan Bland and True Lacina and Brogan Macy and Kelsey Espenson. Pole bending, Avry Thelander, Holly Wright, Carly Christian, and Rilee Didway.

Last but not least we had Brett Custer in bull riding.

All these contestants did great and made Region One proud. As the weekend went on, Sunday they had the short go and we had 5 contestants advance in 4 events. In barrels we had Holly Wright as 3rd high callback and Brogan Macy as 6th high callback. Then in tie down we

had Quade Hiatt as 2nd high callback. In saddle bronc riding Brady Fields as 3rd high callback. Rilee Didway as 4th high callback in poles. To end out the day, overall Region one had 8th in barrels with Brogan Macy and 4th in barrels with Holly Wright, 10th in tie down with Quade Hiatt, 2nd in Saddle bronc with Brady Fields, and 6th with Rilee Didway in poles. Also during the weekend they had the Miss THSRA qualifying queens contest and Region one had Snow Lopez competing. Snow is now the Region One queen and will be traveling to Abilene for State Finals to go for the title of Miss THSRA. Big congrats to all these amazing competitors you made Region One proud!

region I 2015-2016 thSra rodeo Schedule 11/7 & 11/8/2015 | amarillo cuttings 3/5 & 3/6/2016 | Vernon 3/12 & 3/13/2016 | Hereford 3/26/2016 | dumas

2016 State FINaLS coNtractorS aNNoUNceD: StocK coNtractor - J & J rodeo company roUGh StocK JUDGeS - Glenn Sullivan & Dewitt Forrest tImeD eVeNt JUDGeS - John tom Powledge & Glenn Sullivan aNNoUNcerS - chris rankin & Jordan Wisener PhotoGraPher - Dave & Beth Jennings VIDeoGraPher - D & c Productions roDeo Secretary - anne Dollery cUttING Secretary - Suzanne George reINeD coW Secretary - Kelley Williams tImeKeePerS - Kristi crenshaw & hope Lummus PoINtS SecretarIeS - Phillis arceneaux & Jody mcelroy ProGram PrINter - Baystar Group SaDDLeS - tod Slone Saddles BUcKLeS - hy o Silver Buckles 9

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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- cLint griffin po box 460 • eldorado, Texas 76936 325.226.0434 • cgriffin@kgelaw.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

by bLiss boLton – ariat performance reporter

ne thing that is important to learn when rodeoing is good sportsmanship. A good sense of sportsmanship can get you far not only in the rodeo arena, but also in life. From the time everyone starts their journey in the great sport of rodeo, everyone will experience losses and wins. This is why it is important to be a good sportsman wether you win or lose.

Good sportsmanship is handy tool to learn early on in one’s rodeo career.

Every person who has ever gone on to accomplish any sort of rodeo success had to learn how to lose. None of the greats just became successful all of the sudden, they worked hard and learned from their losses. World champion bull rider Bonner Bolton was asked how he handled wins and losses and what sportsmanship meant to him. He responded, “To me handling loss is just as important as winning, if not more. Winning is not hard to handle because it brings you joy, satisfaction, and a sense of accomplishment. However; losing is hard because failure is never easy and is always discouraging, and it’s very easy to get down on yourself. One important thing I've learned about

losing is that there’s always something to learn from it and there is always a reason for your loss. It could be a mental mistake, a technical failure with your gear, or something you have no control over. Whatever the case, at the end of the day, you are responsible for what takes place 99% of the time. I always try to remember this one saying I have always told myself, ‘Preparation+Deter mination=Domination’. When you have these things lined up, you won’t lose as much, and you will be much more prepared for your event. You have to be prepared to lose because losing gracewHitLey competing at nationaLs in 2011 fully will help you win the next one. To me, good sportsmanship is about being able to lose as well as you win. No matter the outcome, forget about the past and set your sights on the run/ride in front of you. Don’t let your last run/ride dictate your next one. A good game plan is to always be as clear-minded and focused as you can be in order to be successful.

The hard work has already been done. All you can do is go compete, and give it your all.” Bolton is a great ambassador for the sport of rodeo and a great sportsman.

Sportsmanship as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary is, “ fair play, respect for one’s opponent, and polite behavior by who is competing in a sport or other competition. The opponent could be a fast calf that usually outruns you, a straining goat that just got up on the run before yours, a bull that has bucked you off every time you've gotten on him, or maybe your opponent is yourself.

Whatever or whoever the opponent may be, you have to learn how to play fair, respect your opponent, and have a good attitude. Region II senior Whitley Whitewood is a great sportsman who, besides competing in rodeo, also competes in track, volleyball, and basket2015-2016 thSra rodeo Schedule ball. When she was asked what good sportsmanship 3/5 & 3/6/2016 | Sweetwater meant to her, she responded, 3/12 & 3/13/2016 | midland “Sportsmanship is the way FinaLS you act to your competitors during your wins and losses.

3/25 & 3/26/2016 | Sweetwater People who possess good

region II

Mike says “You can buy your permit for ProRodeo when you turn 18.

We want to showcase the young talent and let them run for big money now!”

December 29th, 2015

$2,000 Added

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Contestants check in early on the 28th & get FREE ADMISSION into the 21st Annual Calf Roping & Barrel Race on Dec. 28th with your back#!!

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sportsmanship are humble and kind towards their their competitors no matter whether they win or lose. I try to always be a good sportsman as I believe that it is just as important as winning or losing. If you are able to compose yourself and respect the people you are competing against, you will always be successful and respected by those you are around. The way you deal with and respond to your wins and losses is what truly defines you!” No matter how many times you get bucked off or you hit a barrel, always remember to be a good sportsman.

In the end, you will be successful.

Good sportsmanship is not only necessary when you lose… but also when you win.

You not only need to handle losses with dignity and respect, but also wins. No matter how exciting the win was or if you won by six tenths, a good sportsman doesn't boast about it. A general rule of thumb when being a good sportsman is to always treat others the way you would like to be treated. This means respecting yourself and your opponents.

Overall good sportsmanship will be great skill to have in and out of the rodeo arena. In Region II we have some great competitors, and a some very good sportsmen.

Whether you win lose or just hit in the middle, remember to always practice good sportsmanship. It will be more rewarding than any buckle, saddle, or check. So good luck Region II, in all that you do.

Note From The Secretary:

Contestants, make sure to turn in your raffle tickets and adds or you will not be able to compete next semester. There is a list of who needs to turn things in up on the website. Also do not forget to send me mid-semester report cards.

– Jody McElroy, Region II Secretary

Bonner Bolton competing at a PBR event.

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region iii

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

fuLton murray 7 Westover road • Fort Worth, Texas 76107 214.789.4884 • jfmurray3@mac.com

secretary - keLLey wiLLiams 6328 malvey avenue • Fort Worth, Texas 76116 817.706.8236• kelley.williams@thsra3.com state directors / region officers

940.365.1548 • mhairford@matadorresources.com

matt Hairford 6464 paradise Drive • aubrey, Texas 76227

president - ken bray po box 1634 • granbury, Texas 76048 817.219.0436 • kbray@equibrand.com

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

the making of a cowboy hat by sawyer prZiLas

– ariat performance reporter

veryone can wear a ball-cap, not just anyone can wear a cowboy hat. Cowboy hats have a reputation and a past as one of the most important and most recognizable items used/worn by a cowboy or cowgirl. The cowboy hat has a legacy paved in the hard work and dedication of the cowboys who swore by it, and the companies who took the time to make them correctly.

During a recent hat factory tour, I got a glimpse of the time and dedication and the painstaking detail put into every hat. The process is long and arduous starting with either the hand braiding of the straw hats or the felting process.

The straw hats are as I said before braided by hand, no machinery involved, neither are there dies used.

The hats are woven together in discrete detail with no definite flaws minutely detectable.

The hats are crafted with tender care, taking pride in their work as it is not just a tool but a piece of art. As it passes through each stage of laquing, shaping, pressing and drying. Each hat is crafted thoroughly but with the tasks ahead in mind.

The felt hats go through a process

E

where a stainless steel cone is put into a cabinet of sort the cone has small holes where air is sucked in. The fur and hair (depending on the hat you purchase) is blown in through the top of the metaphorical cabinet. As the hair rotates around it begins to stick to the cone until the cone is filled. It is then taken out of the cabinet where the three foot tall mass of hair as thin as the lint from your dryer resembles the shape of a large dunce cap. The cap is then rolled through several presses that apply a series of heat and water with constant pressure to shrink and bind the fibers together to a smaller and sturdier shape After that process is over just like the straw hats the felts get to sit in a saddle as well, forming the shape and size of the hat. After being meticulously shaped and sized the hat then goes to the sanding where each hat is sanded individually by one of the skilled workers. These hats never have anything besides fur holding them together and keeping

region III

2015-2016 thSra rodeo Schedule 11/14 & 11/15/2015 | Graham 1/23 & 1/24/2016 | Stephenville 2/27 & 2/28/2016 | Stephenville FinaLS 3/18 - 3/20/2016 | Stephenville

shape calling for the near perfect forming and pressing by the workers.

A lot of you may think that it takes many complex machines to fashion a hat out of raw materials, well in fact it is quite the opposite. Workers shape, size and create your hat with equipment that is nearly a century old.

After you visit a hat factory, you can’t help but think that every hat there has a story waiting to happen. Your cowboy hat has gone through everything you have right there with you. If your hat could talk what kind of stories would it recount? Staying up to the small hours of the night on a rodeo circuit? Guarding your head from that thunderstorm in June? Seeing thousands upon thousands of cattle moving across amplitudes of land? Doctoring cattle out in the wheat pasture?

The hat is the most important and recognizable piece of the cowboy. From Hong Kong to Moscow most of the people you meet will wonder if you’re a cowboy as well as if you come from Texas. So who will you trust your future stories to?

Left: Hat presses used to shape and mold hats; Right: Stacks of raw straw hats before being shaped or molded.

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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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

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

Points

by mcKenzie ray– ariat performance reporter

P

oints. They make up a large part of high school rodeo.

They're the deciding factor in who wins what at the end of the year.

Points, and standings in general, can be a very stressful to think about.

Some can handle this pressure, and enjoy it. There are people who keep an eye on the standings, checking them after each rodeo to be sure that they're maintaining their position.

For those individuals, knowing how many points they have is a comfort. For others, checking the standings can be a stressful habit. One that breeds nervousness and anxiety about runs that they've yet to make.

So how do you find a happy medium?

One of the reasons why a few numbers on a sheet can cause so much trouble, is because of the weight that they carry. Points decide rodeo, Region, and State champions.

Everyone's goal at every rodeo is to do well enough to get points. The problem with that, becomes overthinking. Every run becomes a fight with yourself to get those points. By the time you're that invested, you're

not only competeing with yourself, you've put yourself in a mental competition with everyone else. You start to watch every run that others make, and maybe even hope that they won't place higher than you. All of these things lead to negative outcomes, and a less than fun experience when you're competing. The main idea is that you shouldn't let points or placings effect how you go at a run. To safety up is one thing, making a smooth run, keeping a goat tied, or just going and catching steers and calves are not bad things. It's when you do those things with points in the back of your mind when things can start to go bad.

In an article that featured 3 time Heeling World Champion, Jade Corkill, the interviewer asked him, "How often do you check the world standings? Do you let where you're sitting effect your game plan from rodeo to rodeo?"

Jade replied, "The standings dont matter until the last day of the season."

Standings do matter to the people who are in them. But they should never be allowed to run your life. Points are points. They are awarded 1st through 10th place, and will be at every rodeo. You cant change them, and you can't make more appear out of nowhere. At the end of the season, those points will matter.

But for now, all you can do is compete to the best of your ability, and let the chips fall where they may.

region IV

2015-2016 thSra rodeo Schedule 11/8/2015 | terrell 1/30 & 1/31/2016 | terrell | cutting & rcH 2/14/2016 | terrell 2/28/2016 | terrell 3/13/2016 | terrell | make up date 3/25 & 3/26/2016 | athens | Finals/cutting & rcH

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Doubling Up in FIVE: Winners Sweep 2

president - sHeLLie Lummus vice president - ck wrigHt secretary - sHayLon eLms

student officers

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

region v

secretary - susan baLdwin 704 1/2 southview circle • center, Texas 75935 936.590.4330 • regionvsecretary@gmail.com

carter eLLiott 17125 Fm 850 • arp, Texas 75750 903.521.2034 • candjcattle@gmail.com

president- gene arceneauX 13448 coon rd • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.651.5344 • garceneaux@platinumcandf.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

by HannaH HempHiLL – ariat performance reporter

I

n Nacogdoches, Texas on September 26th and 27th Region V members put another rodeo behind them.

Many of our members came to leave their mark that weekend by winning both Rodeos…..Our bull riding legend, Keyshawn Whitehorse dominated the bull riding by winning both rodeos on some extremely rank bulls.

Shiloh Stone had it on his mind when he took the steer wrestling title both days. Ethan Craig also showed his winning style in the calf roping with a couple of smooth runs to top the field.

Trey Thomas thought this double winning thing must be contagious so he put together a couple of awesome Bareback rides. Not to be outdone by the guys, Lexi Smith put together two smoking 20 second pole runs to beat 47 other girls . I would say these guys had a great weekend and are already preparing to do it again at our next rodeo’s on November 21st and 22nd.

As the Thanksgiving holidays are fast approaching I wanted take a little time to define what Thanksgiving means to me and my family. As our Bible states Thanksgiving is the giving of thanks to God for everything that we receive at this hand. We receive from him; our lives and the food and drink to sustain us. Every good thing in our lives ultimately comes from God and we owe him

thanks for all. The Holiday as described by the United States is the blessing of the harvest and the preceding year as celebrated and commemorated by a harvest festival of the Pilgrims in 1621. As Christians, my Region V family chooses to use Thanksgiving as the holiday to Thank Our God for all his blessings. As for myself I am thankful for my loving and supportive family, thankful for the wonderful opportunities I have in my life to share and pHotos (Left to rigHt): steer wrestLer, sHiLoH stone; bareback rider, trey tHomas; tiedown roper, etHan craig; poLe bender, LeXi smitH

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show my love of the Lord, and most Thankful for his wonderful forgiving grace when I fall short in his eyes. So with the holidays in mind remember to keep God first in your life and thank Him for all his blessings, and until next time LET GO AND LET GOD! Happy Thanksgiving!

region V

2015-2016 thSra rodeo Schedule

11/21 & 11/22/2015 | nacogdoches 1/23 & 1/24/2016 | nacogdoches 2/20 & 2/21/2016 | nacogdoches 3/12 & 3/13/2016 | nacogdoches FinaLS 4/2 & 4/3/2016 | nacogdoches

PROUD SPONSOR Of THSRA & TJHRA

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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

CONSISTENCY IS KEY

by Lauren keene

H

– ariat performance reporter

ey Region 6, big things are happening, and things are finally beginning to settle down. But don't let that statement fool you, because we know how to get hyped here in Gonzales! Along with that, come our pre-rodeo rituals, which lead to consistency.

When it comes to being consistent; let’s not dress it up. I'm sure everybody knows the basis of being a consistent contestant, but let me break it down for you. Muscle memory, muscle memory, muscle memory!

Everyone knows that as soon as you get out into that arena, your mind goes dead blank. The only time a thought could actually pass through your mind is if you are to make a mistake, so let's pray that doesn't happen! Working in the practice pen and not changing your million dollar technique is crucial so that your muscles will take over and you can do exactly what you do best.

Since things have begun to fall into place for the fall months (no pun intended), we have got to be constant with each run and how we work it out.

We all want those points that will get us to the top 10, and as Fallon Taylor proved, consistency WILL get you there! By definition, consistent is the

unchanging in achievement or effect over a period of time. But I don't think that's very accurate. You can still be consistent but be awarded higher and higher achievements! Consistency in your technique is essential, but there's always room to go faster or hold onto that bull rope a little longer.

As fall fades into winter, and winter fades into spring, let's be consistent. The life of a student athlete is a tough one, and it is very demanding. But I challenge you to be the fish swimming against the current, and use those hours of free time to perfect your unchanging technique, so that you can be consistent and still receive those high rewards. Benjamin Disraeli once said, "The secret of success is consistency of purpose." I think he couldn't be any more right. Success and consistency fall right in line with each other, they can operate separately but they complement each other greatly.

reMinders: If you are not already signed up for remind101, please do so! Junior high class - @region6j, and high school class - @3356012. State ads and tickets are also due at the November rodeo, so get those sold! you need at least 1 ad sold, and 15 truck tickets sold. as always, make sure you get your entry forms mailed into Nena before the postmark date, because there is a late fee.

region VI

2015-2016 thSra rodeo Schedule 11/14 & 11/15/2015 | Gonzales 1/16 & 1/17/2016 | Gonzales 2/13 & 2/14/2016 | Gonzales 3/12 & 3/13/2016 | Gonzales | FinaLS 1/2 & 1/3/2016 | Gonzales | 4 cuttings 1/23 & 1/24/2016 | Gonzales | 4 cuttings

teXaS hIGh SchooL roDeo aSSocIatIoN StUDeNt Secretary

Ima Champion

H

Clay O’Brien Cooper

Chad Masters

Travis Graves

i, my name is Ima Champion! I am your THSRA state secretary, I rodeo in Region V! I have participated in rodeo all of my life and I am a fourth generation rodeo competitor!

My grandfather Maurice Champion was inducted in the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2001! He started "Champion Rodeo Co." in 1969. In 1986 my dad Bob Champion took over the rodeo company and has been in the business ever since. Putting on amateur rodeos all over the state of Texas as well as venturing out into other states like Iowa, Louisiana, and Oklahoma.

I have been involved in all aspects of rodeo, beginning to end, and from production to competing. My rodeo career has definitely been an experience and have learned that it takes both end of the arena to make a rodeo happen everyone is as equally important. Also being the state secretary I have learned more than I could've ever imagined. To understand rodeo a person has to be very open minded and understanding!

I plan to attend college and college rodeo as soon as I graduate high school. I am undecided on the school which I will further my education, fortunately I still have a couple years to make my final decision and preparations to attend. I am undecided between Panola Jr. college in Carthage, Texas A&M in College Station, and Sam Houston State in Huntsville, but I am keeping my options open.

I love my family, I was raised in a Christian atmosphere since I was a baby. I love my family, my friends, and God for blessing me with the best of both and all of my blessing and experiences I have had along the way. He is the one in which all of my success is owed. Keep a look out for me on the rodeo road and don't forget to stop by and say hi!

Rich Skelton

Bobby Mote

Tuf Cooper

Bradley Harter

Visit us at Cowboy Christmas Booth 3947 or at South Point, on the Concourse, during the WSTR Finale.

888-HEELING | 888-433-5464 | heelomatic.com

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2nd Annual Founders Invitational Rodeo

T

he 2nd Annual Founders Invitational Rodeo took place at the Lavaca Exposition Center, October 17 and 18th. The City of Hallettsville put on this great event and invited the top 40 Texas High School Rodeo Athletes in 10 rodeo events. Tough competition all day on Saturday completed the first go round and 10 contestants found themselves at the top of the heap and qualified for Sunday’s 10 a.m. Short Go Round.

Sunday’s Short Go Round gave a sneak peek into how these top athletes measure up against each other as they usually do not get to compete against each other anywhere except at THSRA’s State Finals Rodeo in June. The competition did not disappoint and the performance was broadcasted live on Rodeobroadcastnetwork.com. After the dust settled the over $17,000 added money was awarded to those contestants that found themselves at the top of the leaderboard. Jay Terrell and Delani Wood went home with beautiful All Around Cowboy and Cowgirl Buckles, Resistol 20X Black Gold Felt Hats and a pair of Ariat Boots.

The battle for the giant (standing over six feet tall) team trophy was claimed by Region VII. They took home a $1,000 prize to help their Region with awards and scholarships.

The Founders Invitational was created by the Dickson Allen Foundation, CH Graphics and the Lavaca Exposition members who wanted to celebrate that THSRA and NHSRA got their start in Hallettsville in 1946 as a way to encourage rural oriented youth to stay in school and complete their studies. Almost 70 years later, THSRA gives over $200,000 in scholarship dollars to deserving Seniors each year and is known as the most prestigious high school rodeo association in the nation. THSRA’s history can be seen at the Texas State Championship High School Rodeo Hall of Fame on 1205 North Texana Street.

HALLETTSVILLE FOUNDER'S RODEO RESULTS BAREBACK BREAKAWAY TIEDOWN POLE BENDING Trey Thomas 134 Jennifer Stanley 4.95 Kolton Mazoch 16.86 Kaelin Ware 40.820 Lane McGehee 133 Lainey Cooper 4.98 Carson Jeffrey 17.92 Swaize Lee 41.348 Colby Fedor 108 Hannah Martin 5.15 Ty Iselt 18.63 Addie Liles 41.366 Clint Mayo 62 Lexi Russell 5.33 Charlie Gibson 20.17 Sarah Luce 41.380 Cody Gore 57 Madison Milligan 5.35 Trevor Kernick 21.45 Maggie Denena 41.850 Travis Chapman 53 Lena Whitehead 6.24 Jay Terrell 21.51 Carly Staggs 45.316 Jessica Garrett 15.55 Paden Bray 23.85 Lyndie Dunn 45.826 STEER WRESTLING Kenna McNeill 2.88/1 Luke Harper 27.96 Rebecca Brister 45.854 Jay Terrell 10.21 Katie Stewart 2.92/1 Cameron Crow 28.65 Rilee Didway 46.095 Mitchell Hutto 10.55 Ima Champion 2.94/1 Quade Hiatt 8.22/1 Lexi Gutfranski 47.077 Clay Iselt 11.57

Kuy Rippstein 13.90 SADDLE BRONC TEAM ROPING BULL RIDING Tanner Green 17.57 Will Pollock 112 on 2 Ty Harris & Keyshawn Whitehorse 143 Luke Yargo 20.89 Brady Fields 60 on 2 Paden Bray 13.40 Ross Freeman 141 Wyatt Sbrusch 22.41 Kyler Cole 74 Ky Redstrom & Kyle McDaniel 140 Austin Atkinson 5.87/1 Slade Bomer 43 Wyatt Bray 16.13 Zack Bearden 134 photo by Jennings Holden Myers 5.95/1 Jarett Freeman & Samray Hooper 75 Josh Hamilton 6.37/1 GOAT TYING Kirby Blankenship 17.28 Dalton Grimes 68 jay Terrell represents region 7 in their Hailey Bruening 15.09 Slade Townsend & Gus Hohman 62 team victory. Region 7 brought home BARRELS Paige Dawson 15.79 McCray Profili 18.57 Jose Munoz 62 the $1,000 team prize!

Kenna Kaminski 31.716 Tacy Webb 16.20 Tanner Green & Delani Wood 31.750 Brandi Bratton 16.24 Coleby Payne 21.77 Kasey Kretzschmar 31.752 Mersadie Martin 16.80 Colton Brittain & ALL AROUND COWBOY Holly Wright 31.761 Kyndal Terry 17.49 Jase Holder 22.97 Jay Terrell Whitley Whitewood 31.818 Shaye Lynn Jessee 17.74 Madison Milligan & Laney Fowler 31.876 Jayci Oliver 20.78 Austin Atkinson 32.48 ALL AROUND COWGIRL Lindsei Harvey 32.006 Lariat Larner 21.26 Baker Moltz &

Delani Wood Landri Brown 32.121 Delani Wood 8.09/1 Lane Frazier 6.69/1 Kelsie Winfrey 32.129 Cade Sutherland & Brogan Macy 32.637 Peyton Ferguson 10.61/1 delani wood photo by Jennings Kasen McCall & Carson Seago 12.12/1

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Thank you to Hallettsville for inviting us to such a great event!

some of tHe event winners pictured: 2nD annual FounDers inviTaTional all arounD champs! jay Terrell anD Delani WooD bringing home a resisTol 20X blacK golD anD a pair oF ariaT booTs; hailey bruening From region 9 Won The goaT Tying WiTh a 7 seconD run; Ty harris anD paDen bray puT TogeTher a greaT Team eFForT anD came ouT on Top in The Team roping aT The 2nD annual FounDers inviTaTional roDeo; jay Terrell, magnolia, TeXas Was The Winner in The sTeer WresTling; Kenna KaminsKi Won The barrel racing aT The 2nD annual FounDers inviTaTional, she TraineD her oWn horse ThaT she boughT oFF craig’s lisT... ThaT Time anD harD WorK she puT inTo ThaT liTTle mare is paying oFF; jenniFer sTanley ropeD one in 2 For The Win in The breaKaWay roping; Will pollocK may looK sWeeT, buT This KiD is one Tough saDDle bronc riDer! he maDe The naTional Team as a Freshman anD came bacK here anD Won The saDDle bronc... cemenTing him as The guys To beaT in The sTaTe oF TeXas; Trey Thomas, our champion barebacK riDer From region 5; KolTon mazoch Was a 8.9 anD cincheD up The Win in The Tie-DoWn.

cLint mayo

photo by Jennings

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deLani wood

photo by Jennings

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Texas Hunter Education Field Day Voucher Only those ages 9 to 16 are required to attend a Texas Field Day. If you are 9 to 16 years of age, in order to complete the Texas hunter education requirements, you must pass both the online and Field Day portions of the hunter education course.

Q. What is the Texas Hunter Education Field Day Voucher?

A. The Texas Field Day Voucher is issued once you have completed the Texas Online Hunter Education Course. The voucher is your admission ticket into a Texas Hunter Education Field Daywhere you will complete your hunter safety training and obtain your Texas Hunter Education Certificate.

environment. Thanks to HUNTERcourse.com’s professionally narrated course content, detailed illustrations and interactive animations, you will have fun learning all the aspects of hunting and firearm safety and only have to show up to a single 4-6 hour instructor-led hunter safety Field Day.

Q. What's the advantage of the 17 and older online course?

Q. Is the Texas Field Day Voucher the same as a Hunter Education A. Students can now taken their entire hunter education course online.

Certificate?

There is no Field Day requirement needed and once the course is comA. No. The Field Day Voucher is proof that you have passed the online plete, you can print your Temporary Student Card. hunter safety course and allows you to take part in a Hunter Safety Field Day, where you will be issued a hunter education certificate once you Q. Do I need to take this course to obtain a hunting license? have successfully completed all activities and the final hunter safety A. Certification is NOT required to purchase a license in Texas. For more exam. information you can check out the Texas Hunting License and Hunter Education Requirements Page.

Q. What is the Texas Hunter Education Course Completion Voucher?

A. The Course Completion Voucher is issued to those students who are Q. What steps do I need to take to complete the Online Hunter 17 year of age and older and have successfully completed their online Safety Course and obtain my Texas Hunter Education Certification hunter training. This is voucher is for your records only and is NOT a if I am 16 and Under? hunter education certificate.

A. The Texas Hunter Safety Course can be completed in 4 Steps: Study the free Online Hunter Safety Course Q. How do I get my Texas Temporary Student Card?

Pass each chapter's hunting safety test A. Students who are 17 years of age and older can now take their entire Purchase the Hunter Safety Field Day Voucher Texas Hunter Education Course Online. Once complete, they will need Attend a TPWD Hunter Safety Field Day to get certified. to make payment for their course and will then receive their Texas Temporary Student Card. A permanent card will arrive in the mail.

Q. What steps do I need to take to complete the Online Hunter Safety Course and obtain my Texas Hunter Education Certification Q. What's the advantage of the 16 and under online course? if I am 17 and Older?

A. The traditional Texas hunter education classroom course lasts about A. The Texas Hunter Safety Course can be completed in 4 Steps: 14 hours and is usually given over the span of a weekend or several Study the free Online Hunter Safety Course weeknights. With the online hunter safety course, you can do the bulk Pass each chapter's quiz and the final exam of the course work from home in an interactive and engaging online Make payment for the online course

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Print your Temporary Student Card Q. When can I take the Online Hunter Safety Course?

A. The online hunter safety course is available to anyone at any time. However we strongly recommend that you locate a Hunter Safety Field Day in your area before you get too far into the online course. Field Days might be difficult to find in certain areas, so plan ahead!

THSRA MEMBERS HUNTING PHOTOS! jordan parsley, senior - Region V

Q. How do I pass the 16 and under online hunter safety course?

A. In order to pass the online hunter safety course and get your Field Day Voucher, you must pass each chapter quiz with a grade of at least 80%.

Q. How much does the Youth Hunter Education Course cost?

A. Once you have successfully completed Kade Berry, 7th grade - region X the hunter safety course you will be permitted to make payment for the Field Day Voucher. The one-time course fee is $24.95.

Q. How much does the Adult Hunter Education Course Cost?

A. Once you have successfully completed the hunter safety course you will be permitted to make payment to receive your Temporary Student Card. The one-time course fee is $29.95. HUNTERcourse. com will then remit $5.00 to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Q. Why is it important to learn gun safety and take a hunter safety class? above: A. Contrary to popular belief, hunting is Brooke Boiles, Senior one of the safest sports around. This is Region X mainly due to the fact that most hunters take gun safety and hunting safety very right: ryan fullerton, seriously. Careless or reckless behavior sophomore while hunting can lead to serious injury to region X one self or to innocent bystanders. This is why Texas requires most hunters to take hunter education courses, and to follow the 10 rules of firearm safety at all times when hunting.

Kamryn LockE, Sophmore- Region X

keyshawn whitehorse, senior - Region V

above: blake wheeler, senior- Region V left: Mersadie martin, junior - Region V

23

A BIG SPONSORSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT! THSRA and TJHRA Ride with the Henson Brand

H

enson Motor Company of Madisonville, Texas has just gotten behind THSRA and TJHRA in a BIG WAY! Coming on board November 1st as our newest corporate sponsor, we can’t wait to tell you more about this great family oriented company owned by Fred and Liz Henson.

When Henson Motor Company heard that THSRA and TJHRA were faced with purchasing the giveaway truck on their own for the first time in over 15 years, they jumped in and sponsored the entire truck. This has never been done before by a dealership in the history of THSRA or NHSRA. Fred and Liz Henson, a past THSRA rodeo family, knew the importance of the the money raised from the Ram Truck Giveaway Program and didn’t want our association to have to use any of the money raised to pay for the truck.The dollars raised from the truck giveaway are used to fund THSRA scholarships and awards and the TJHRA finals and awards, which benefits hundreds of deserving members.

This year, Henson Motors wants to get to know your rodeo family and that is why they will be touring the State of Texas to visit a rodeo in each Region. They will be showing off the THSRA, TJHRA and Henson Motors Ram Giveaway Truck at a rodeo in your Region!

Our hope is that when they pull into your Region that you will give them a BIG THANK YOU and show them what it means to be part of the THSRA/TJHRA rodeo family!

Their belief and support of our organization is humbling and greatly appreciated. We hope that when your family decides to purchase their next vehicle that you will give our friends at Henson Motors first opportunity and “keep it in the family.”

Henson Motors sells new and pre-owned Ram, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Ford vehicles. Check them out online at hensonmotor.com

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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 secretary - nena boettcHer po box 833 • east bernard, Texas 77435 281.468.8973 • region7thsra@gmail.com

region vii

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

Sportsmanship by branDi braTTon

R

– ariat performance reporter

egion VII has had an outstanding start to our rodeo season! Each and every contestant has shown outstanding sportsmanship in every situation this is something Region VII has been complimented on for my many parents through our Region.

This is what makes our Region the reason we have so many successful components to the rodeo world.

When you listen very closely during the barrel racing or pole bending the alley way of the arena is where most of the cheering come from. Each contestant is there supporting and cheering for each other you're here a cheer for someone making a wicked fast run or even making a good solid clean run. The support from each person is truly felt in and out of the arena. Even in the roping events everyone is on the fence cheering each other on. This support helps people to strive and become motivated to become the best that they can be and help them reach their full potential.

Sportsmanship is a huge part of the rodeo world and to be able to be apart of such a great state and even Region is what makes rodeo even better! If you take a moment to think what is sportsmanship mean to you?

To some it's playing fair and being respectful and others it's showing support whether it's physically or mentally. This broad term means so much so many people yet it's the foundation of the great sport we participate in. Once more think how would a rodeo be without sportsmanship? Truthfully it's kind of hard to think about isn't it? Think no one will cheer you on for a good run and no one will be there when you make a bad run yet you need to be comforted.

Sitting down and having to think about how much sportsmanship means to rodeo it's truly inspiring. So many people are there to support one another even if there rodeo isn't going as planned. This shows the true character of the people we rodeo with and makes me proud to be apart of such a great sport. So next time you or a friend is having a bad run just think what is sportsmanship mean to me? How can I help someone?

region VII

2015-2016 thSra rodeo Schedule 11/8/2015 | edna | 2 rodeos 12/5 & 12/6/2015 | edna 1/10/2016 | edna | 2 rodeos 2/20 & 2/21/2016 | edna | Finals 11/24/2015 | Gonzales | cutting 1/1 thru 1/3/2016 | Gonzales | 3 cuttings 1/23/2016 | Gonzales | cutting

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keLLie beaLL po box 1107 • Woodsboro, Texas 78393 361.220.2533 • cowgirlkellie@gmail.com

student officers president - abby sLagLe vice president - morgan arnoLd secretary - montana coX state directors / region officers

cHuck fretweLL

3005 santa ana st. • corpus christi, Texas 78415 361.739.9858 • region8thsra@gmail.com

region viii

secretary - ceLina fetty

ken sLagLe 954 cr 140 • Floresville, Texas 78114 254.424.5833 • slaglekl@yahoo.com po box 1379 • edinburg, Texas 78540 956.778.0202 • jeff@jaeconcrete.com

president- jeff eLswortH

26

PERFORMANCE REPORT

Contestants that Shine! by melissa

E

garcia – ariat performance reporter

very boy and girl that has grown up in the rodeo scene, all share one particular goal that is bigger than all the others. We all dream about growing up and one day being able to run at the Thomas and Mack. Being a qualifier for the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas is one of the most prominent titles you can have as a competitor. This same feeling goes for High school rodeo contestants that qualify for state or National Finals.

There is no doubt that TEXAS is the toughest state to compete in. With 32 wins over the past 66 years Texas proves they are the Team to beat.

It’s crazy to think that back in the 1800’s rodeo was just a few cowboys trying to settle an argument about which was better at doing their everyday tasks at the ranch, and now it is a full on sport that continues to evolve.

Now, men and women compete for more money than ever before. Even though this sport is transforming, the principles and ethics of rodeo are still greatly valued by all competitors today. It’s also being perpetuated by youth rodeo organizations all over the state of Texas. In an article about the history of rodeo, Ralph Clark says “Cowboy code still dictates a man to

help his fellow competitors, even though competing for the same paycheck.” The same goes for Region VIII competitors.

Every Region has current and past contestants that shine in the arena. Region VIII is one of those. As a freshman Will Pollock claimed his spot at state finals in Saddle Bronc riding. First round he scored a 61 putting him in 4th place for the round. His second round was rough but Will claimed his spot in the short round and later his spot on the Texas National Team. At this year’s Texas High School Rodeo Association Founders Invitational held October 17-18, 2015, Will brought home the win in Saddle Bronc riding making him one of the best Saddle Bronc riders in High School rodeo. We are so proud of Will for representing Region VIII so well.

With only a few more rodeos left in the High School season all of our contestants are bringing their A game. The coveted spots for State finals are almost within arm’s reach for some. It all comes down to the last rodeo. Everything can change from one rodeo to the next. The same goes for professional rodeo contestants. The stress of making the top 15 can take its toll on some but it’s the drive and determination of others that keeps them going. One of Region VIII’s former members, Shelby Herrmann, knows this road all too well. This season she not only made it to the College National Finals and finished 4th in the nation as a freshman but she was also among the top 25 in the 2015 WPRA World Pro Rodeo standings. A few other accomplishments for Shelby are 2 time THSRA National Qualifier, 2 time American qualifier and 2015 Buc Days Pro Rodeo Champion Barrel racer. Region VIII is very proud of its current and past members.

When you have dreams and follow them nothing can stop you. It takes hard work, commitment and knowing where the top is to get there. It is easy to get off-track at times, but if you keep your personal views in sight it’s much easier live by them.

A few things to keep in mind on your road wiLL poLLock at tHe tHsra founders invitationaL to the top. Think and

Region VIII

2015-2016 THSRA Rodeo Schedule 11/14/2015 | Sinton | 2 rodeos 1/9/2016 | Sinton | 2 rodeos 2/13/2016 | Sinton | 2 rodeos - Finals 1/1 thru 1/3/2016 | Gonzales | 3 cuttings 2/6 & 2/7/2016 | Gonzales | 4 cuttings

shelby herrmann

dream big; nothing is too big for you. Do things and don’t expect things in return. Be persistent and never give up. Always stay positive, even the very best have bad days. Never stop learning. Constructive criticism helps in so many ways but you have to be willing to accept it. One of the hardest in my opinion is taking responsibility for everything that happens to you. Blaming someone else or something else is too easy.

ALWAYS do what you say you are going to do. This is what people will remember most about you. These things might seem simple or maybe not even make sense but if you know where you’re headed, the top may not be so far away.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.

27

28

First Impressions

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

by emaLee Hoffmann– ariat performance reporter

“S

how yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” Titus 2:7-8 We’ve all been taught that first impressions are lasting. Well, our first rodeo did not fall short of having a positive impression on our new members.

September 20th was the start of the season for the Top of the Line, Region IX. It was the perfect morning to start a great season for the Region IX crew in Crockett, TX. It was sunny with fresh air but it was HOT. For the freshman coming in from Junior High Rodeo, it was a big change. There were new faces, new stock, and a whole lot more people. That’s not going without saying how much fun it was. We had our incoming members meeting and said

hello to this year’s student officers Peyton Oliver, President; Spin Edwards, Vice President; Sonora Schueneman, Secretary; Emalee Hoffmann, Ariat Report and Madlyn Sheffield, Region IX Queen. Adult officers, directors and event representatives were also introduced.

Incoming freshman, Aly Ghormley from Madisonville had an outstanding first rodeo.

Winning the goat tying with a 6.740, and also winning the pole bending with a 20.570. Some of the other freshman who placed were Riley Webb winning first with an 11.670 and Gatlin Peck coming in second with a 12.140 in tie down.

Kaycee Cones, a freshman from New Waverly, commented that her first experience of high school rodeo was really good. “Everyone is so nice and helpful. The only event I do is breakaway and I’ve been doing it since I was 10, so I was not that nervous going in. I feel pretty confident about myself going in to the upcoming season.” Her season does look bright as she placed 6th with a time of 3.980. Another freshman, Hagen Herring from Normangee said “It was pretty good. I met a couple new people and saw a bunch of my friends. I also saw a couple cute girls so that’s a plus. I didn’t have the day I wanted in team roping, but I did pretty well in tie down.” Whether it was a great performance, meeting new friends or enjoying the new scenery, our new members seemed to be thoroughly impressed with their first Region IX rodeo.

Our second and third rodeo of the season on Oct 4th in Buffalo treated us Region IX kids well. Beginning on a cool Sunday morning and nice weather throughout the day, you could tell how fresh the horses felt and there was a feeling of success was in the air. We were also treated to a nice uplifting word from Pastor Garet Aldridge about the mental game to make the day even better.

The freshman came back and really showed that they were ready to compete. Lyndie Dunn, brought the heat when she ran a 20.489 coming in second in the pole bending.

Charlie Fisher and Landon Little ended up coming in first in the team roping at the third rodeo.

Taylor Lawson, a freshman from New Waverly, commented when asked how she did in barrels, “We didn’t have the best first run so I went back and watched my video to see my mistakes. When I went in for my second run I really tried to focus on my mistakes and fix them. I focused on using my feet more and we had a much better second pHotos (cLockwise from bottom Left): 2015-2016 region iX student officers; tayLor Lawson; Hagen Herring; kaycee cones

region IX

Tandy R. Freeman, M.D.

The Official Orthopedic Doctor of the THSRA

2015-2016 thSra rodeo Schedule

11/7 & 11/8/2015 | Huntsville 11/22/2015 | crockett | 2 rodeos 1/23 & 1/24/2016 | Bryan 2/6 & 2/7/2016 | crockett 3/19/2016 | Huntsville run. My horse really tried her hardest and I feel that she was giving her best effort.” Taylor had a successful day by placing in the top ten in barrels and winning second in breakaway with a time of 3.400.

From all this success, we see the competition in Region IX this year is going to be tough. There are many outstanding competitors that have already made their mark in Region IX and have shown what they are made of. Be ready to compete at our next rodeos on November 7th and 8th in Huntsville, because it’s never too late to make a first impression.

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adopted 2015-2016 aJra Schedule RODEO #1 & #2 #3 & #4 #5 & #6 #7 &#8 #9 & #10 #11 #12 #13 & #14

DATE October 30-November 1, 2015 April 8-10, 2016 April 22-24, 2016 May 6-8, 2016 May 13-15, 2016 June 17-18, 2016 June 16-18, 2016 June 24-26, 2016

2016 AJRA NATIONAL FINALS RODEO

LOCATION Llano, TX Midland, TX Abilene, TX San Angelo, TX Sweetwater, TX Eden, TX San Saba, TX Andrews, TX

JULY 27-JULY 31, 2016

ARENA Llano Event Center Horseshoe Arena Taylor Cnty Covered Outdoor Arena Spur Arena Nolan Cnty Coliseum Ray Dockery Arena San Saba County Arena Andrews County Event Center & Arena NOLAN COUNTY COLISEUM, SWEETWATER, TX

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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

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

by brooke

boiLes– ariat performance reporter

ith only four rodeos under our belt, Region X has already experienced remarkable runs as the contestants battle it out to get to the lead before it's too late. We have experienced a huge increase in the number of contestants competing, and couldn't be more proud to be able to claim to be the Region with the highest payout per event! In the lead for the rough stock events we have Parker Fleet in the saddle bronc riding, Leighton Berry in the Bareback, and Daniel Keeping in the bull riding. Setting in first place in the team roping for now, is Cuyler Winters and Blake Bentley and over in the steer wrestling, Tanner Fleet is in the lead not only there but for the boys all around as well while Catherine Clayton is leading the girls all around. We currently have a three way tie for first place in the tie down between Colton Brittain, Garett Chick, and Chantz Webster.

Kyleigh Powell is winning the pole bending at the moment with a 21 point lead and Kambria McDougal is setting first in the barrel racing. In the lead for girls cutting is Madison Melasky and for the boys is Chantz Webster. Jennifer Stanley is setting

first for the breakaway roping while freshman Brittne Thomas is winning the goat tying. When asking Brittne about her goals for her rookie year she states she plans on being in the top 5 in goat tying, and qualifying for state in the breakaway. She says, "It is nice to be competing against girls again that I once competed against, but moved on to high school before me. The best thing about the Region is that all my friends and my favorite cousin, Abigail Davis, are there to compete with."

It can be expected to see some changes within the leader board over the duration of the next rodeos due to the strengths of our contestants. We hope everybody continues to keep coming out to the team roping on Saturdays after the rodeo.

Good luck and safe travels to all!

brittne tHomas

region X

2015-2016 thSra rodeo Schedule 11/7 & 11/8/2015 | Hamilton 1/9 & 1/10/2016 | Hamilton 2/13 & 2/14/2016 | Hamilton 3/5 & 3/6/2016 | Hamilton | Finals

KADIE BETH WISENER

by Catelyn Felts

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!

Congratulations to Whatakid, Kadie Beth Wisener! The Region V junior resides in Lufkin, Texas and attends Crimson Christian Academy. She has been involved in the THSRA for the past three years and competes in the barrel racing and pole bending. Her horses take up most of her time and she said she wouldn’t have it any other way!

Wisener began her rodeo career at the age of 10, when she received her first barrel horse, Misty. “The only kind of horse I was used to riding before Misty was an old roping horse, so a barrel horse was a huge step up,” Wisener said.

She described Misty as an honest horse that loved her job, and taught her the basics of horsemanship, as well as barrel racing. Growing up, Wisener watched her older sister compete in high school rodeos, and she knew she wanted to compete in the THSRA as well. She also knew the competition was tough and she was going to have to work hard. “I knew in order to place good I would have to be the best of the

best, so two years before I became a freshman, I started working hard toward being the best barrel racer I could be.”

By the time her freshman year came along, Wisener was riding her barrel horse in both the barrel racing and the pole bending. Her first year of high school rodeos did not go exactly as she had hoped considering she did not make it to state in the barrel racing; however, she was extremely pleased with her horse for placing her fourth overall in her region. During state Wisener was elected the THSRA student secretary. The following year she was able to represent the THSRA at various events. This experience motivated her to run for office on the National level, where she now serves as your current NHSRA student vice president.

On the rare occasion Wisener is not at a rodeo, barrel race, or some event that has to do with the THSRA or NHSRA; she can be found hunting, shooting skeet, or hanging out with friends and family. She explained how “there is no such thing as a normal day for [her]. Every day comes with new adventures, plans and lots of chores.”

Though she does not have much time outside of the arena, Wisener does not mind the sacrifices she has to make. “If you rodeo, you have to make sacrifices in order to be on top. You can’t slack off, if you want to be the best, you have to train the best.” She does however, make time to stay on top of her school work as she has had the highest GPA in her class her entire high school career.

Though she has not decided where she would like to attend college she does know she wants to be a chiropractor, and she is faithful in knowing “God has a plan.” She said things might not always go her way, but her God always has a plan. She also takes this motto into consideration when talking about her hero.

Ernie, Wisener’s best friend and the person she looks up to the most, has undergone four different types of cancers and has lost her husband.

Wisener says through it all, “Ernie still manages to stay strong. She has taught me how to not take life for granted and she trusts in the The Lord in every situation.”

In addition, Wisener said she is extremely honored to have been selected for this month’s Whatakid. “I am so glad that the THSRA has a sponsor as good as Whataburger!”

We want to wish Kadie Beth the best of luck in the rest of this rodeo season as well as all of her future endeavors!

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junior HigH

Texas Junior HigH rodeo associaTion news

D

ear Junior High Contestants and Families: November is here! Wow where has the year gone? I hope everyone will be able to spend a little time with their families. I love Thanksgiving being able to spend some time with family! We are together many times, but it is usually at a rodeo, which we love and would not trade that, but at Thanksgiving we seem to relax

and enjoy each other. So I am hoping this month brings that happiness to you as well.

We had our board meeting in Halletsville during the month of October, and made big plans for

the State Finals. The judges this year changed a little, we will have Teddy Alleman who is from Louisiana and was at our state finals last year then we will be bringing back Glenn Sullivan and John Tom Powledge, both have been to the finals in previous years. We will also have Bobby Flores back this year as our arena director. Chris Rankin is coming back to announce and run the sound board.

Jennings Photography signed a three year contract last year, so this will be their second year on the contract, for the videoing and photography. They will also be doing the videoing for the internet live feed. Each year we learn a little more on the live feed to make it better for those at home that are watching. We will have J&J Rodeo Productions back with the stock, they too will be serving their second year on their contract.

The student officers listened and looked at many vendors saddle and buckle bids. After looking at everything that was presented to them, your officer team has decided to get the saddles from Cowboy Classic this year and the buckles will come from A Cut Above.

On the rough stock end the board decided to have three bull fighters this year; we are inviting Hunter Allen, Jimmy Lee and Chris Munroe to that end.

Hope everyone is doing well in the Region rodeos. If you are struggling a little, remember do not ever give up! Take some time to get in the practice pen and figure out what can make you do better.

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

Anne Dollery

www.tjhra.org 33

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News REGION V: FUN, FUN, FUN!!

By ELIZABETH ELMS – Region V TJHRA STUDENT SECRETARY

T

he 2015-2016 Texas Junior High Region V Rodeo season started out great with the Get Acquainted Rodeo. Not everybody was able to make it, but it was a great experience for all of the new comers to see what a junior high rodeo is all

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about. The real fun started with the first point rodeo in Nacogdoches, TX. Hopefully everyone found their way around and how to get their stalls. We had a good turn out the first day with Wyatt Girouard placing first place both days in the bareback riding.

Sydni Cane placing first in the barrels. Thomas Wallace with first place in boys breakaway and tie down. He also placed first, both days, in boys goat tying. Tanner Crone and Kinlee Drake grabbing first place in ribbon roping, both days.

As fun as it was competing day 1, we all had a blast with the goat dressing later that evening.

Everyone had lots of fun and it was a good laugh.

All of the teams worked hard together and some had different ways of doing it. Some teams would run down to the goat with the tutu around their neck and others with it around their waist making us all laugh.

This was an interesting way to meet new people and their families. The winner of the goat dressing were Brooke Kaylor, Jordon Wisener, Vern Kaylor and Cutter Kaylor. The Kaylor family must practice goat dressing at home!!

The second day of the rodeo was also a successful day with the weather being cooler, and everyone geared up ready for the day. This day was pretty competitive with these first place winners: Jill White in girls breakaway, Kolt Dement in chute dogging, Jacelynn Head in poles and Wyatt Girouard in bull riding. More first place winners on rodeo #2 included Christian Morgan in girls goat tying, Will White in the saddle bronc and Hunter Dillard and Blake Lathan in team roping.

Mr. Terry Holland had an interesting message with his story about bull riding when he was a kid. We all enjoyed hearing him speak. Speaking of talking, I’d like to give a big shout out to our new announcer Mr. Jordan Wisener. He is fun, energetic and good at brushing goat’s teeth, and we welcome him to our Region V family. Everyone at Region V means a lot to me, they are like family. We don’t all go to the same schools so we only get to see each other at Region V rodeo weekends. The people here are really caring and super supportive. Always cheering for one another and rooting each other on. Ultimately, we all want to win and qualify for the state finals, but the friendships and relationships we make along the way is the best part. I can’t wait to see what our friendships here will become in our future as we all grow together in this rodeo life. Thank you to all of the parents and adults that make this happen for us. Without you we could not do what we love, Rodeo!!

Texas Junior HigH rodeo associaTion news reGIoN VI: tJhra IS the BeSt!

by brinLee freeman

H

– region vi Tjhra

i! My name is Brinlee Freeman.

This is my 3rd and final year in Texas Junior High Rodeo Association. There are many reasons why TJHRA is such a great organiza-

tion, especially Region 6!

Throughout the years, I’ve made so many new friends. Meeting new people and making friends is a big part of what TJHRA is. The people that you meet, are people that will be forever friends. I’ve talked to several adults who participated in Jr. High and High School Rodeo, and they’ve all said that they still keep in touch with people that they met in the rodeo organizations. That’s awesome!

Region 6 is like a second family to most of us. Everyone involved is so nice and understanding. All the people who are willing to announce, help out in the office, put on the church service, set up events, and just make sure the rodeo is running smoothly will do it with a smile on their face! If you look around, you will always see someone who is willing to help someone else out. People are always cheering on their friends, giving support and advice, loaning out tack, ropes, and even horses (if needed!). I think it’s great how everyone helps each other out.

Faith is also important part of our rodeo life. We can count our blessings and we know they reason we are here is to give glory to our God. We are extremely blessed to have families who support our dreams and who are willing to sacrifice so that we can do what we love!

I think that rodeo helps you to become a better person. There are so many life lessons that you learn along the way.

I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything in the world. TJHRA is the best!

•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

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Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News

2015-2016 JUNIOR HIGH STATE DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE BOARD NATIONAL DIRECTOR JOHN E. BLAND

940-537-1354

jeblandnspade@yahoo.com

806-676-1042

nobaro@sbcglobal.net

PRESIDENT Brad Crone VICE PRESIDENT TONY LACINA

DELEGATE JOHN ATKINSON 979-482-2018

DELEGATE BRENT CHARLESWORTH

midtexlivestock@hotmail.com

DELEGATE CINDY CLAYTON

254-485-9466

clayton@our-town.com

DELEGATE AMANDA GORHAM

830-676-3373

gypsydoll75@yahoo.com

DELEGATE JEFF PARSLEY DELEGATE SCOTT SHOOK

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

STATE DIRECTORS Region I GARY FIELDS CHAD HIATT ROBB WELLS

T

exas Junior High State Officers, McKenna Shook and Sierra Schueneman attended the October Junior High Board of Directors meeting in Hallettsville. They took a moment to pose with THSRA State Officers in their new Pro View Equine Digital Surveillance caps signed by Fallon Taylor. McKenna and Sierra represented TJHRA throughout the 2nd Annual Founders Invitation Rodeo in Hallettsville, Texas.

806-946-6138 gsfields@fivearea.com 806-676-4402 chad.hiatt@yahoo.com 806-346-5109 Robb_Wells45@yahoo.com

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

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

Region V DAVID COGBILL 409-781-8254 dlcogbill@icloud.com Joe Glen Kahla 409-489-1012 jgk@mklawyers.com JEFF PARSLEY 903-842-4720 jparsleygeraniums@earthlink.net

Region VI NATALIE BENNIGHT 513-304-8507 nbennight@yahoo.com DANNY DUCKETT 512-289-0724 Dkconcreteconstruction@gmail.com CLAY BASS 512-847-5056 Construction.BASS@yahoo.com Region VII CHRIS OATES DEE ANN RAWLINSON SCOTT SHOOK

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

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

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PRESIDENT MAKENNA SHOOK

V.PRES SIERRA SCHUENEMAN

SECRETARY PAISLEY PIERCE

PRINCESS REAGAN HOELSCHER

TJHRA marketing director

Maci Meyer 281-610-7346 macikmeyer@yahoo.com

Farm & Ranch Family 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 2016 THSRA State Finals.

The Champion Family of Region V

C

by Catelyn Felts

ongratulations to the McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family of the month, the Champion’s! The Region V family, Bob, Tonya, National, Ima and Jessy Champion, own and operate Champion Ranching & Rodeo Co. located in Buffalo, Texas.

It was established in 1969 by Maurice Champion and is a third generation operation that produces UPRA, TCRA, LRCA, CPRA and youth rodeos all over Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. They have a born to buck breeding program for their bucking horses that has earned the family numerous awards at each association.

The Champion’s also own Cattle Country Equipment, which was purchased in 2007. This business is a farm and ranch supply located in Jewett, Texas. They try to cater to the local farmers & ranchers by carrying hunting supplies, deer stands, feeders, deer feed and seed for cover crops for both the hunter and the rancher. They also carry garden supplies, tools hardware and plumbing.

In addition to Cattle Country Equipment and the Ranching & Rodeo company, they run Champion Ranching. This operation includes running several cow calf pairs, returning heifers to herds and bucking the bulls to see who makes it into the rodeo world and who gets to move on to the beef industry.

With three full time businesses to run, the entire Champion clan gets put to work. “In the summertime, besides putting on rodeos, there is always hay to bale and roll for our own livestock and to sell at the feed store,” said Tonya Champion. Everyone has a job to do, whether it

be cutting, raking, rolling or square baling, or hauling and stacking. On top of that, the Champion’s have daily chores such as feeding animals, mending fences, and just general farm and ranch upkeep. “Those of you that live on a farm or ranch know what we are talking about,” Tonya said.

Aside from producing rodeos, the Champion’s enjoy competing in several rodeos across Texas and Oklahoma. Ima Derby Champion, a 15-year-old sophomore at Buffalo High School, is a member of Region V. She currently serves as the THSRA State secretary and competes in the barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping, goat tying and reining cow horse competition. This past year, she qualified for state in the goat tying, breakaway and reining cow horse. Besides the THSRA, Ima is a member of the Pineywoods Youth Rodeo Association (PYRA) and competes in several different youth rodeos and ropings in Texas and Oklahoma. When she is not at a rodeo or helping with tasks around the ranch, Ima enjoys a variety of sports including: varsity power lifting, varsity softball, varsity cheerleading and track.

National R. Champion, 24, was also a member of THSRA Region V. He competed in the team roping, tie-down roping, bulldogging and cutting. He served as a THSRA state officer as well and then went on to rodeo for Sam Houston State University. Today, he owns and operates his own cattle operation while also putting on rodeos and picking up in his spare time.

“He has been named Pickup Man of the Year the past several years for the UPRA.” Jessy Champion, also 24, is currently studying nursing and animal science at Stephen F. Austin. He plays a large part in the Champion businesses as he just recently produced a rodeo in Trinity, Texas. He also helps out wherever he is needed on the ranch.

The Champion Family said they have always enjoyed shopping at McCoy’s for all kinds of farm and ranch needs. “The help there is always very knowledgeable and helpful in every situation, Tonya said. “As much as we are on the road we see lots of McCoy’s around and definitely stop by and support them, they have been a true asset to Texas High School Rodeo and we will continue to support them.”

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