NIRA Expands College Rodeo to 11 Regions Including Southwest Split

As the fall semester begins, college rodeo athletes across the United States are gearing up for the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association's 2025-2026 season, culminating in the College National Finals Rodeo in June 2026 in Casper, Wyoming. This season marks the first under the new regional structure, with the Southwest region split into the Caprock and Lonestar regions, each hosting their own rodeos. The rodeo season is a mix of rookies starting their college careers and seniors competing for their final time, all aiming for national titles. Meanwhile, local rodeo culture continues to be celebrated, with events like Scottsdale’s three-day rodeo showcasing bull riding and cowboy traditions, and nostalgic reflections on community rodeos like the long-missed Tri-State Rodeo parade and festivities. Additionally, Montana college football teams have kicked off their home seasons, highlighting a busy sports calendar in the region. These stories reflect the rich and ongoing traditions of rodeo and collegiate sports in American communities.