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61st Annual

Eight-Time Regional Rodeo of the Year In Memory of Dale

Stiles

ROPIN & RIGGIN DAYS

R
O
D
E
O
APRIL 15-17, 2016
The Arena at
Central Wyoming Fairgrounds

Fri., 7 p.m.
Sat., 7 p.m. Sun., Noon

Hosted by

tbirds.cc #All4Casper

Chadron, Neb.

Chadron State College

Sheridan, Wyo.

Sheridan College

Lamar CC

Lamar, Colo.

Laramie CCC

Cheyenne, Wyo.

Torrington, Wyo.

Eastern Wyo. College

Gillette, Wyo.

Gillette College

SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER OCTOBER OCTOBER MARCH MARCH

2-4
18-20
11-13
9-11
18-20
25-27
4-6
Riverton, Wyo.

Central Wyo. College

APRIL
8-10

Fort Collins, Colo.

Colo. State University

Casper, Wyo.

CC Ropin & Riggin Days

APRIL
15-17

Laramie, Wyo.

University of Wyoming

APRIL/MAY
29-1

CA SPER COLLEGE THUNDERBIRD 2016

Athletics.

2015

This is

INSIDE

61st Annual

ROPIN & RIGGIN DAYS

R
O
D
E
O
APRIL 15-17, 2016

Times, Events, and Officials

Administration and Staff
Season Recap and Outlook
Coach Tom Parker
Asst. Coach Jhett Johnson
Former T-Bird Greats and Heyoka
Rodeo Legacy
T-Bird Cowboys and Cowgirls
Standings
Buckle Sponsors

3
4
5
6
7
8
9
11-15
20-21
Back Cover

PERFORMANCE TIMES
Friday

Saturday

Slack Noon
Performance 7 p.m.

Slack 8:30 a.m.

Performance 7 p.m.

EVENTS
Bareback Riding
Tie Down Roping
Breakaway Roping
Saddle Bronc Riding
Goat Tying
Team Roping
Barrel Racing
Steer Wrestling
Bull Riding
Wild Ride*
*(Saturday Night Only)

Sunday

Finals Noon

RODEO OFFICIALS
Announcer
Bob Edmonds
Kersey Colo.

Timed Event Contractor

Kinghorn Cattle Company
Curt Kinghorn, Buffalo, Wyo.

Judges
Wade Berry
Miles City, Mont.
Jim Whiting
Valentine, Neb.

Pick Up Men
Clint Humbel
Newell, S.D.
Scott McClain
Morrill, Neb.

Rough Stock
Contractors
Powder River Rodeo, LLC
Riverton, Wyo.

Timers
Carol Martinez
Kaycee, Wyo.
Tera Anderson
Casper, Wyo.
Bullfighters
Garrett Kissack
Gillette, Wyo.
Matt Nichols
Laramie, Wyo.
Rodeo Secretary
Tammy Vold Larsen
Casper, Wyo.

For more information

Call 307-268-3000 for more information about Casper College and its athletic programs, ticket information, or to inquire
about the T-Bird Rodeo Booster Club. For information on the Casper College Rodeo Scholarship Fund call 307-268-3000.

Credits

This T-Bird souvenir program was written and produced by the Casper College Athletic Department and the Office of Public
Relations at Casper College. It is designed as a resource for working members of the media and as a ready reference for fans
and contestants. We hope you will take time to patronize and thank our advertising sponsors for supporting the T-Birds.
Casper College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The college is committed to the philosophy of equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran
status, political afliation, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Inquiries concerning Title VI, Title IX and Section 504 may be referred to Casper College, Ofce of Human Resources, 125 College Drive, Casper, WY 82601,
307-268-2025, or to the U.S. Department of Education, Ofce of Civil Rights, Region VIII, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, 303-844-5695 or 303-844-3417. This publication will be provided in an alternative
format upon request.

KEY PEOPLE FOR THE T-BIRDS

Dr. Darren Divine

President of Casper College

Paulann Doane
Executive Director
College Foundation

Nick Whipps
Student Activities
Coordinator

Heath Hornecker
Agriculture Department Head

Kim Byrd
VP, Student Services

Angel Sharman
Athletic Director

Linda Toohey
Associate VP,
Student Services

Shawn Powell
Interim VP,
Academic Affairs

Robin Bisiar
Athletics Administrative Asst.

Pam Honken
Student Records Specialist

Justin Pehrson
Sports Information Cord./
Digital Media/Webcast

Laura Lucero
Publications Cord./
Webcast

Kaycee Monnens
Public Relations
Student Employee

Todd Jones
Agriculture Instructor

Jason Johnson
Agriculture Instructor

Marty Finch
Agriculture Instructor

Lynnde Colling
VP, Administrative Services

Chris Lorenzen
Director, Public Relations

Danielle Gallegos
Enrollment Services
Specialist

Linda Nichols
Registrar/Director of
Student Records

Dan Dalen
Athletic Trainer

Mike Moline
Athletic Trainer

Jeremy Burkett
Agriculture Instructor

Chantz Potter
Ranch Campus,
Ranch Manager

THE FINAL LEG OF

A GREAT SEASON
The Thunderbirds visit the
University of Wyoming for their
final rodeo of the year April 29-May
1. A number of Caspers athletes have been
in the top ten throughout the season, but
currently there are four standout competitors
that have proven to be solid all year long.
The most honorable mention is
bareback rider Dylan Wahlert. After seven
rodeos, he sits atop the region with an
accumulated 1,100 points. Impressive is
an understatement while describing his
season and his riding talent. Coach Tom
Parker is delighted with his success both in
college rodeo and his recent successes in
professional rodeo.
The Thunderbird assuredly has a future
in the world of rodeo. His success on
the professional scene includes earning
money at pro rodeos and even winning the
Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association
(PRCA) rodeo in Casper in November. He
also made waves in the semi-finals of
RFD-TVs The American, making
impressive rides.
On the other side of the arena, a team
roper is having big success in the Central
Rocky Mountain Region. Coley Nicholls, a
construction technology major, ropes with
Trenton Turner of Northeast Junior College.
The pair have roped their way to third place
after seven rodeos.
It is worth mentioning that each region in
the NIRA takes the top three in each event to
the College National Rodeo Finals in Casper.
Nicholls credits hard work and a great
rodeo program, along with his horse and
coaches to his success. He says, Jhett
Johnson has been a major impact on
me since the day I started college rodeo.
Since he is a heeler like myself and a world
champion heeler, he has helped me become
twice the roper that I used to be. Nicholls
also appreciates Johnson for teaching him
how to find quality horses that can take him
far. That knowledge seems to be paying off,
because he states that his horse has made it
easy for him to rope even the hardest shots.
Parker does not have much experience
roping, but Nicholls also thanks him for

Dylan Wahlert

being supportive. Hes always there for me,

whether it be rodeo or school.
says Nicholls.
A teammate of Nicholls comes out of
the same box, but competes in an entirely
different event. Breakaway roper Kooper Bott
made a splash in Riverton, Wyoming, the
first rodeo of the year. She won it, and has
been in every short go, or been just out of
them, since. Her roping is solid to say
the least.
Botts success is especially inspiring
because of a huge challenge she had to
overcome. Shes had hip surgery in the past
and a recent back surgery to repair damage
from a car accident several years ago. Bott
states, Being injured has made me have a
lot more focus on my goals. Getting healthy
enough to rodeo again after my back surgery
was a big deal to me. The determination
is undeniable. Parker credits her younger
brother, who is also on the rodeo team, with
being a stable support system. Bryce is an
avid calf roper and helps his sister through
the struggles of roping. He is credited with
doing most of the grunt work while Kooper
was healing. Kooper says, In the beginning,
I couldnt even saddle my horse. Bryce has
been very supportive of me. Koopers horse,
Moped, is one of the favorite horses

shes ever had. Needless to say, horsepower

is a huge factor in the timed events.
In a sport that needs some of the highest
level of horsepower in the discipline, Kodee
Williams sits in the top five. Barrel racing
is clearly her passion, and she is fortunate
to share that same passion with her little
sister, Kassidy. The duo have each had their
share of success throughout the season,
but veteran Kodee tops her rookie sibling.
Her main mount, Sue, is a huge part of this
winning trend. Ive ran Sue for a year and
a half, and every run we make, we become
a better team. She loves her consistency
and heart. The two sisters feed off of the
competitive nature of the other, but the fan
base radiating from each other overshadows
any sibling rivalry.
Kodee grins and says, We push each
other to the max. We support each other.
We are each others biggest fans. Kodee
is a great competitor and a champion inside
and out. Like a true winner, she gives credit
where credit is due. Humbly, she says, It
takes a small village to be successful in the
barrel racing, and Im really appreciative
of everyone that helps including Tom, my
parents, Kassidy, Jeremy, and all of my
friends.
Good luck to all of the Thunderbirds in the
final two rodeos of the season!

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE,

THE MORE THEY STAY THE SAME
The Casper College rodeo team
has a history of winning. One
huge contributor is none other
than veteran coach, Tom Parker.

As he enters his 26th year coaching

the Thunderbirds, he remembers the
successes of the past while keeping an
eye on the future of rodeo. One thing that
has never changed, though, is his passion
for seeing young people develop as
competitors. Weve seen a lot of people
improve this year, says Parker. He is
most impressed as a coach seeing rodeo
athletes blossom in college.
Ten years ago, one might have seen a
huge number of roughstock riders on the
coachs team. Though he still has an eye
for impressive riders (including current
members Dylan Wahlert, JW Meiers,
and Drew Antone), he notes that a major
change in his team in the last decade has
been the rising number of timed event
competitors. For good reason too his
mens team has won the region three
times in the past five years. You cant

win regional championships with just

roughstock or with just timed event people.
Youve got to have a combination of both,
says Parker.
Currently, the rodeo world is seeing a
dropping number in roughstock riders.
Coach Parker hopes to see an upswing
of those numbers, due to organizations
such as the Mini Bareback Riding
Championship and the National Junior High
Rodeo Association. For now, hell take full
advantage of a diverse population of timed
event competitors on his team. To help him
out, hes had 2011 World Champion Team
Roper Jhett Johnson by his side for the
last three years. Parker attributes the rising
number of outstanding timed event athletes
on his team to Jhetts presence. Anytime
youve got a world champion on your team,
it improves everything.
This isnt the first time that Tom has
had a world champion as his assistant.
For several years, the World Champion
Bareback Rider of 2004, Kelly Timberman,
served his hometown college team.

The soil of Casper undoubtedly is home to

outstanding world champions and outstanding
coaches. It also draws an incredible crop of
students to compete for Casper College. One
such student is bareback riding standout,
Dylan Wahlert. He has dominated the event in
the Central Rocky Mountain Region all year
long. Wahlert concluded his fall at the top
of the entire National Intercollegiate Rodeo
Association. Parker is elated at his success,
and expresses that he has been one of the
teams key players in the last two years. Even
though we had some really good bareback
riders last year, he was right there with them,
Parker says proudly. This year he just picked
up where he left off. Dylan was a large part of
the mens regional title last year, and is a huge
contributor in the 2015-2016 season.
Though the mens team may have had a
more modest start this year than previous
ones, Parker has confidence in his boys
abilities. Its just a matter of getting the job
done. Were a little weaker than in years past,
but we have the talent.
Tom Parkers team changes every year. It
takes a exible coach to deal with the ups and
downs of rodeo. Nonetheless, he takes every
new opportunity in stride. Some things
never change.

COACH
6

TOM PARKER

NEW EXPERIENCES FOR THE

WORLD CHAMPION COACH

JHETT
JOHNSON
ASSISTANT

COACH

As a champion of the world, there are

not many things that Jhett Johnson hasnt
seen in the rodeo arena. However, the world
of rodeo is an ever-changing, ever-moving
freight train. If one isnt prepared to jump
on opportunities, theyll be left behind.
Three years ago, Johnson jumped on
the opportunity to give back to the rodeo
community by coaching the next generation.
It didnt take him long to figure out what
it takes to be a great coach. He, like Head
Coach Tom Parker, thoroughly enjoys
watching his athletes improve and win.
Johnson holds a bachelors degree in
psychology and pressures his athletes to
succeed in school as much as possible.
His interest in the human brain helps him to
understand the members on his team and
their personalities. Because hes a champion
in the arena, he can apply that knowledge to
help their mental game. Im very strongminded, and I try to get the guys strongminded, Johnson says. You have to be
mentally strong.
That strength of mind has brought
Johnson five Wrangler National Finals Rodeo
(WNFR) qualifications, an average title there,
a world championship, and hundreds of
thousands of dollars in prize money in and
out of the professional circuit. Because of his
past success, he was recently invited to be a
part of the newest professional
rodeo organization, the Elite Rodeo
Association (ERA).

The T-Birds say thanks to

Sponsors of our Wild Ride

He says, Its kind of the next generation

of rodeo, so I didnt want to pass up on the
opportunity to do it. Johnson thinks the
ERA will be around for a while and is glad
to be a part of it. The ERA is going to be
a spot where theres more money and less
traveling.
Because of the induction into the
association, hes rodeoing more this year
than in recent years. He stays busy juggling
the rodeos with coaching his college team,
alongside coaching his own boys. His
oldest son, Kellan, will be old enough to
rodeo professionally with his dad next year.
Johnson plans to help Kellan fill his permit.
Meanwhile, his other boys, Carson and
Kress, continue to improve their roping.
Johnson hopes the ERA will open doors
for his team and his sons. Its harder to earn
your spot, but if you ever get to that level and
get that invitation, its awesome.
Another experience the Casper coach
has found to be rewarding in his three years
working for the college is picking up at
rough stock practice. When Johnson is done
rodeoing and raising his boys, he wouldnt
mind having a team of nice horses and going
and picking up at some major rodeos.
Its all in a days work. No matter how
experienced Jhett Johnson is, he is always
keeping his eye out for a new opportunity.
What a great asset to the Thunderbird team.

Let's G
Sneakin o
the Be ' to
acon!

4100 W Yellowstone Hwy.

Mills, Wyo. 82644
307-577-1503

SOME FORMER THUNDERBIRDS

YOU MIGHT KNOW
Kelly Timberman Bareback
Larry Sandvick Bareback
Bryce Miller Saddle Bronc
Chris LeDoux Bareback
Joe Alexander Bareback

Mike Moore Bull Riding

Dave Brock Calf Roping
Willow Nicholas Breakaway Roping
Lexy Burgduff Goat Tying
Heidi Knapp Goat Tying

HEYOKA AND HISTORY

The story of the Casper College mascot, Heyoka, starts with long-time
Casper College physical science instructor Norm Weis. Weis wanted a
mascot to represent the young community college nestled in the foothills
of Casper Mountain. He chose the name Heyoka, a Native American word
for medicine man. The Heyoka, among other things, was to watch over
his tribe and send away evil spirits. Casper Colleges Heyoka was hoped
to create the kind of spirit that would send away evil teams.
In the fall of 1958, Weis found the perfect student to fit the bill as the
first Heyoka, Leo Sanchez, who he observed singing and dancing and
generally hamming it up. The two worked on the original costume, which
consisted of rabbit fur stretched over a football helmet, epoxy eyes and a
fiberglass beak. The nearly 50 feathers adorning the wings were all hand
sewn by the two men. The goal was for Native American authenticity.
Using the costume as a model in 1995, Casper College alumnus and
sculptor, Chris Navarro crafted Spirit of the Thunderbird a bronze statue
now on the front lawn of the college.
Since that time there have been three Heyokas. That first one was
retired many years ago. Heyoka was replaced with Thunderbird,
in 2004.
The last Heyoka costume is now on display in the lobby of the
Swede Erickson Thunderbird Gym.

Left to right: Gene Walker,

Dale Stiles, and
Rany Nez Date, 1972.

THE RODEO LEGACY

OF DALE STILES
Few college rodeo programs
anywhere have the kind of tradition
enjoyed by Casper College.

With four national team championships

and three more finishes in the top three
during the past 40 years, Casper College
ranks among the most successful programs
in the country. Former T-Bird cowboys
have gone on to no less than 16
professional titles.
Dale Stiles was the man who started it all.
Over 60 years ago, he hosted the first Casper
College rodeo. It was the first time a junior
college had fielded a rodeo team, let alone
hosted its own rodeo. Through the years,
Stiles would coach some of the sports
greatest stars, and become a legend himself.
Perhaps the most famous cowboy ever
to wear the red and white hailed from Cora,
Wyoming, a post office town just west of
Pinedale, Wyoming, Joe Alexander, later
dubbed Alexander the Great by the late Red
Smith, a columnist for the New York Times
newspaper, is considered the top bareback
rider of all time.
Alexander rode for Casper College in
1965 and 1966, helping CC to national
championships both years. He was a
national collegiate bareback champion in
1965. But it was his accomplishments after
leaving Casper College that landed him a
spot in the Pro Rodeo Hall of Champions in
Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Alexander racked up 13 consecutive
appearances in the National Finals

Rodeo (NFR). He collected five world

championships and more than $500,000 in
career earnings, the first bareback rider to
top the half million plateau in earnings.
There are many other famous cowboys
who have worn the Casper College red
vests. Dave Brock, Jim Davis, Chris LeDoux,
and Kelly Timberman all went on to win
professional titles. Others include Hank
Franzen, Pink Peterson, Ivan Daines, J.C.
Bonine, T.J. Walter, Jay Himes, Ned Londo,
Skeeter Thurston, Shawn Madden, Guy
Shapka, Mike Moore, and Bryce Miller.
Brock, who won the world calf roping title
in the 1970s and now lives in Texas, credits
Stiles for much of his success. He set a
high level of competition and I responded to
it, said Brock, another member of the half
million club. Brock was Rookie of the Year in
1972, won the world in 1978, and 10 times
finished among the top eight calf ropers in
the world.
LeDoux, who passed away in 2005, is
best known today for his music. But others
remember his brilliant performance in the
1975 NFR, where he won the world bareback
riding championship.
Franzen might have been the best allaround athlete ever to rodeo for Casper
College. He proved that in 1978, when he
won the National Intercollegiate Rodeo
Association (NIRA) All-Around Championship
at Bozeman, Montana.
Franzen also won the collegiate bull
riding title that year. Casper College finished
runner-up for the team title, largely due to

Franzen, who is now a top stock contractor.

Davis is a two-time world champion in
steer roping. Shapka won the NIRA saddle
bronc title twice. Moore is a multiple qualifier
to the NFR in bull riding.
Timberman is the latest CC world
champion, having won the world bareback
title in 2004.
The tradition of Casper College rodeo
goes far beyond the names in the record
book. Casper College prides itself in being
the first junior college to sponsor a rodeo,
and the first junior college to win a team
championship. Casper was also the first to
win four consecutive team titIes.
Joe Alexander

HOW THEY SCORE

EM IN THE NIRA
The team aspect of college rodeo, to some, is what
makes the sport even more fun and exciting.
Not only are the contestants battling for individual
event points, but points for their teams as well; thus
the school-colored vests identifying their affiliation.
The top two mens and womens teams will
represent the Central Rocky Mountain Region at
the CNFR. Along with those two full teams, the top
three individuals in every event will qualify as well.
Each rodeo, six cowboys and four cowgirls will
be designated by their coaches to score the team
points (the other contestants will score points for
themselves).
Points will be awarded for the top six places (6050-40-30-20-10).
That means a contestant can potentially earn 60
points in the long go around, 60 points in the short go
and 60 in the average, or 180 points total in a rodeo
like Ropin & Riggin Days.

10

Clayton Atkinson

Joseph Barquin

Ty Bartrand

Peter John Bennett

Katy Bilodeau

Bryce Bott

Kooper Bott

Jesse Bunner

Drew Antone

Sophomore
Event(s): Bull riding, steer wrestling
Hometown: Kinnear, Wyo.
Parents: Arnold and Michelle Antone
Major: Ag business
High school honors: Wyoming State High School
Rodeo Champion Bull Rider (2010); three-time
NHSFR qualier; Indian National Finals qualier/top
ve nisher; 2010 Rookie of the Year

Freshman
Event(s): Bull riding, tie down roping
Hometown: Wright, Wyo.
Parents: Glenn and Colette Bartrand
Majors: Ag business

Freshman
Event(s): Calf roping, team roping
Hometown: Powell, Wyo.
Parents: Katie and Kelly Bott
Major: Ag business
High school honors: SSIR reserve champion
goat-tyer; second round and third in the short-go
qualifying for NHSFR in calf roping; qualied third
in Montana in calf roping

Freshman
Event(s): Saddle bronc, team roping
Hometown: Casper, Wyo.
Parents: T.K. and Wanda Atkinson
Major: Ag business
Best High School Athletic
Performance: Getting my rst score in
bronc riding in Lander, Wyo.

Sophomore
Event(s): Team roping
Hometown: Kaycee, Wyo.
Parents: Rob and Jerrie Bennett
Major: Wildlife biology
High school honors: All-conference in
football junior and senior year; all-state in
football senior year

Sophomore
Event(s): Barrel racing, breakaway roping,
team roping
Hometown: Powell, Wyo.
Parents: Katie and Kelly Bott
Major: Respiratory therapy
High school honors: SSIR reserve champion
goat-tyer

Sophomore
Event(s): Team roping
Hometown: Kinnear, Wyo.
Parents: Jodi and James Barquin
Major: Agriculture

Sophomore
Event(s): Barrel racing, breakaway roping
Hometown: Dayton, Wyo.
Parents: Rick and Brenda Bilodeau
Majors: Radiology, phlebotomy

Sophomore
Event(s): Bareback
Hometown: Lusk, Wyo.
Parents: Lisa White and Lane Bunner
Major: Machine tool technology

11

Lacey Camp

Sierra Correll

Cassidy Cox

Meghan Ebert

Sabrina Fanning

Trevin Fox

Bailey Fruit

Peggy Garman

Dalton Garrett

Junior
Event(s): Breakaway roping, goat tying,
team roping
Hometown: Belgrade, Mont.
Parents: Jason and Jodi Camp
Major: Radiography
High school honors: State champion
breakaway roper; two-time NHSFR qualier;
2014 CNFR qualier

Freshman
Event(s): Barrel racing, breakaway roping, goat tying
Hometown: Youngstown, N.Y.
Parent: Janet Ebert
Major: Range management
High school honors: Two-time OHSRA Reserve
All-Around Cowgirl; three-time OHSRA goat tying year
end champion; OHSRA breakaway roping champion;
NHSRA Merit Award and Spirit Award; OHSRA Arait
Put Your Best Boot Forward Award, student president
and student vice-president

12

Sophomore
Event(s): Breakaway roping, barrel racing,
team roping
Hometown: Ekalaka, Mont.
Parents: Troy and Mikel Fruit
Major: Occupational therapy

Sophomore
Event(s): Breakaway roping, team roping
Hometown: Hot Springs, S.D.
Parents: Dusty and Brent Correll
Major: Occupational therapy assistant
High school honors: Winning the breakaway
extravaganza show case; three time twentytime qualier (won team roping senior
year); three time extravaganza qualier (won
breakaway senior year)

Sophomore
Event(s): Team roping, breakaway roping
Hometown: Martin, S.D.
Parents: Andrea and Jason Fanning
Major: Biology
High school honors: Sturgis High School
Regional Rodeo

Freshman
Event(s): Breakaway roping
Hometown: Sundance, Wyo.
Parents: Wayne and Dixie Garman
Major: Ag business
High school honors: 2015 NHSFR qualier; 2014
Double S Arena Open breakaway champion; Top 15
nisher in 2015; National Honor Society; graduated in
top ve of class

Sophomore
Event(s): Barrel racing, breakaway roping
Hometown: Casper, Wyo.
Parents: Marty and Collette Cox
Major: Radiology

Sophomore
Event(s): Steer wrestling, team roping
Hometown: Hays, Mont.
Parent: Stephan Fox
Major: Ag business

Freshman
Event(s): Saddle bronc riding,
team roping
Hometown: Casper, Wyo.
Parents: Steve and Kim Garrett
Major: Welding

Wyatt Griffith

Jordan Harrell

Murphy Haun

Taylor Hunt

Jeremy Jarrard

Kassi McPherson

Freshman
Event(s): Calf roping, team roping
Hometown: Pompeys Pillar, Mont.
Parents: Jeff and Vicki Grifth
Major: Ranch management

Junior
Event(s): Barrel racing, breakaway
roping, goat tying
Hometown: Riverton, Wyo.
Parents: Perry and Annie Hunt
Major: Business

Freshman
Event(s): Tie down roping, team roping
Hometown: Roy, Mont.
Parents: Dave and Laurie Harrell
Major: Diesel technology

Sophomore
Event(s): Tie down roping, team roping
Hometown: Casper, Wyo.
Parents: JJ and Wendy Jarrard
Major: Psychology
High school honor: Won the short round
at the Wyoming High School Rodeo Finals
with Mat TeHau in 2012.

Sophomore
Event(s): Breakaway roping, goat tying
Hometown: Torrington, Wyo.
Parents: Cody and Matt Haun
Major: Nursing
High school honors: Won the 3A Wyoming State
Volleyball Championship and qualied for the
NHSFR in goat tying

Freshman
Event(s): Barrel racing, breakaway
roping, team roping
Hometown: Rapid City, S.D.
Major: Chemical engineering

JW Meiers

Junior
Event(s): Calf roping, saddle bronc,
team roping
Hometown: Casper, Wyo.
Parents: Tom and Connie Meiers
Major: Ag business
High school honor: Won all-around in Jackson, Wyo.
senior year; state champion saddle bronc rider in 2013;
two-time National High School Finals qualier

13

Kaycee Monnens

Coley Nichols

Deena Norell

Sophomore
Event(s): Team roping
Hometown: Riverton, Wyo.
Parents: Ty and Jamie Nichols
Major: Construction technology

Sophomore
Event(s): Goat tying, team roping,
breakaway roping
Hometown: Meeker, Colo.
Parent: Vicky Norell
Major: Engineering

Tim Packard

Klay Ready

Garrett Reid

Trynity Robertson

Shaina Simonson

Rachel Taylor

Freshman
Event(s): Barrel racing, breakaway roping,
goat tying, team roping
Hometown: Hulett, Wyo.
Parents: Craig and Loretta Monnens
Major: Agriculture communications
High school honors: Qualication for the NHSFR in
2015; 2011 S.D. state 4H rodeo breakaway champion;
2012 SDHSRA Rookie of the Year; three-time regional
All-Around Cowgirl SDHSRA; two-time national qualier

Freshman
Event(s): Bull riding
Hometown: Casper, Wyo.
Parents: Tom and Del Packard
Major: Diesel technology

Junior
Event(s): Breakaway roping
Hometown: Caputa, S.D.
Parents: Justin and Patsy Robertson
Major: Occupational therapy
Four-time SDHSRA
Finals qualier

14

Freshman
Event(s): Team roping
Hometown: Dixon, Wyo.
Parents: Jace and Deb Ready
Major: Animal science

Freshman
Event(s): Barrel racing, breakaway roping,
goat tying
Hometown: Dunning, Neb.
Parents: J.W. and Cindy Simonson
Major: Occupational therapy
High school honor: Qualifying for National Rodeo
in goat tying and breakaway in 2015; 2014-15
goat tying director; qualied for state all four years
of high school

Sophomore
Event(s): Steer wrestling, team roping
Hometown: Glenrock, Wyo.
Parents: Grant and Trina Reid
Major: Drafting and design technology

Sophomore
Event(s): Barrel racing, breakaway roping,
team roping
Hometown: Ten Sleep, Wyo.
Parents: Nan Sutherland, Kym Taylor,
and Clayton Cheeney
Major: Occupational therapy

Dylan Wahlert

Kellen Washut

Tyler Weeding

Kassidy Williams

Kodee Williams

Logan Wilson

Sophomore
Event(s): Bareback riding, steer wrestling
Hometown: Kim, Colo.
Parents: Sheryl Wahlert
Major: Electronic technology

Freshman
Event(s): Barrel racing
Hometown: Pinedale, Wyo.
Parents: Kevin and Konra Williams
Major: Radiography
High school honors: Qualied for NHSFR barrel
racing two years in a row and nished 11th and 13th
in the nation; 2015 all-conference basketball; 2014
and 2015 Idaho district 7 champion barrel racer

CANT
MAKE IT
TO ROPIN
& RIGGIN
DAYS?

Freshman
Event(s): Bareback riding
Hometown: Casper, Wyo.
Parents: Art and Megan Washut
Major: General studies

Senior
Event(s): Barrel racing
Hometown: Pinedale, Wyo.
Parents: Kevin and Konra Williams
Major: Radiology
Graduated in the top ve of 2012 high
school class

Sophomore
Event(s): Tie down roping, team roping
Hometown: Pompeys Pillar, Mont.
Parents: Laurie and Dave Weeding
Major: Accounting
High school honors: State champion team
roper heading

Sophomore
Event(s): Team roping
Hometown: Wright, Wyo.
Parents: Scott and Denene Wilson
Major: Welding

Keep an eye on all Thunderbird athletics; they will not only nish this
year strong, but return in the fall to do the same. Remember that if you
cant attend a Casper College game, set, or rodeo,

all home competitions are streamed live at

livestream.com/caspercollege.

tbirds.cc caspercollege.edu

15

Thank you to our national

NIRA sponsors!
Cinch Jeans & Shirts

Maynard Buckles

Busby Quarter Horses

Powder River Livestock

Cactus Gear

Handling Equipment

Cactus Ropes

RAM

Cactus Saddlery

United States Team

City of Casper, Wyoming

Roping Championships

Heel-o-Matic

THANK YOU
FROM THE
T-BIRDS

16

Crop Insurance
Real Estate Loans
Operating Loans
Country Home Loans
AgDrirect
Cash-Back Dividends

Farm Credit Services of America

Wyoming Market Place

Casper College is proud to be a part

of Team Wyoming, promoting our
wonderful state through the sport we
love. Additional dollars to be used for
college rodeo programs in Wyoming
were made possible by the Wyoming
Legislature, recognizing that Team
Wyoming members in the pro ranks of
tomorrow come from the college ranks
of today. The Thunderbirds tip their
Stetsons to the Wyoming Department of
Tourism for promoting and coordinating
Team Wyoming.

o 307.577.47.00 // 800.359.0235 f 402.891.2215

casper@fcsamerica.com

AGRICULTURE WORKS HERE. //fcsamerica.com

Expires 8/31/16

The first renovation phase of the new Parkway Plaza Hotel & Convention Centre, which is currently underway, includes
faster high speed internet and numerous guest room enhancements including; implementing a new triple sheet/new
bedding package with down comforters, flat screen tv's in all guestrooms, new guestroom carpet, ergonomic chairs,
new lighting package, new case goods, new pillow top mattresses, updated bathrooms and an introduction of a new
executive section of rooms with improved guest room amenities. Additionally, there will be design upgrades to all
public spaces and corridors throughout the hotel, including a redesigned and modern new lobby, extensive
enhancements to the exterior curb appeal of the hotel, starting with a resealing and repaving of the parking lot, which
has been completed. Numerous mechanical and HVAC updates throughout the hotel are also planned.
Come by today for a tour of our newly renovated Executive King Showroom.
Parkway Plaza Hotel & Convention Centre | 123 West E. Street, Casper, WY 82601 | 307.235.1777 | www.parkwaycasper.com

17

CLIMB ABOARD
T-Bird Rodeo Booster
and become a

From Athletic Director Angel Sharman

You can help our Casper College T-Bird cowboys and cowgirls compete on a
high level both regionally and nationally by becoming a T-Bird Rodeo Booster.
There are two areas that your dollars are needed. The rst is with scholarships
that help Coach Tom Parker and our college staff to recruit the best cowboys
and cowgirls out there.
The second area is in the creation of a practice facility at our Ranch Campus
property west of Casper. We truly appreciate all the support we have received
over the years from the Central Wyoming Fairgrounds, but to be consistently
competitive in the arena our team members need the opportunity to spend more
time in a practice facility than is currently available at the fairgrounds.
Your dollars will go to the Casper College Foundations T-Bird Rodeo Booster
Fund, to be used in these two areas.
If you would like to help the T-Birds, ll out your pledge card today or write
a check to the Casper College Foundation-Rodeo Fund, in care of the athletic
department. Help us send the red vests back to the Casper Events Center every
June, and thank you in advance for helping our rodeo team stay competitive.

18

Casper College Ranch Campus

In addition to the main residence, the property includes:

Barn #1 commercial-grade meat processing shop,
workshop, and garage
Barn #2 horse stalls, tack room, and a small riding arena
Barn #3 a small riding arena (80 x 220)
Greenhouse
Classroom building
Lambing barn and cattle-working facilities
Loafing shed
Two low-pressure center pivots
Wind generator that produces approximately $500 credit
per month
Fencing and automatic security gate
Eight automatic water tanks for livestock

Yes!

Saddle me up as a
contributing member of the Casper
College Rodeo Booster Club. My
gift will be used for scholarships
and other support for the Casper
College Rodeo team.

Name (please print) ______________________________________________________

Last

P.O. box or street number

______________________________________________________________________________________
City

$250

$50

$100

Middle initial

Mailing address _______________________________________________________

Levels:
$25

First

State

Zip

Phone _________________________ Email ________________________________

*$500

*Other ___________
* Any gift of $500 or more will include
banner space at the Ropin and
Riggin Days Casper College Rodeo.

Check #______________
Credit Card

(Please make checks payable to the Casper College Rodeo Foundation Fund.)

Visa MasterCard Discover

Card # _________________________________________ Expires _____________

Signature ___________________________________________________________

Thanks for helping the Thunderbird Rodeo Team!

Please detach form and return to: Casper College Rodeo Foundation Fund 125 College Drive, Casper, WY 82601

Thank you

s e e i t a l l at
visitc asper.com
800.852.1889

19

STANDINGS
Central Rocky Mountain Region as of March 21, 2016
Mens Team
1. Chadron State College
2. Gillette College
3. Eastern Wyoming College
4. Casper College
5. Laramie County Community College
6. Central Wyoming College
7. University of Wyoming
8. Sheridan College
9. Otero Junior College
10. Northeastern Junior Coll
11. Lamar Community College
12. Colorado State University

Points
3,590.00
2,435.00
2,197.50
2,083.33
2,073.33
1,998.33
1,880.00
1,040.00
955.00
730.00
455.00
105.00

Womens Team
1. Gillette College
2. Northeastern Junior College
3. University of Wyoming
4. Chadron State College
5. Lamar Community College
6. Sheridan College
7. Otero Junior College
8. Casper College
9. Laramie County Community College
10. Central Wyoming College
11. Eastern Wyoming College

Points
2,078.33
1,538.33
1,465.00
1,225.00
1,168.33
827.50
595.00
535.00
367.50
300.00
38.33

Mens All-around
1. Van Aken, Clayton Edward
2. Wakeeld, Riley James
3. Turner, Trenton Lane
4. Freeman, Aaron Jesse
5. Anders, Colby Kent

Points
960.00
670.00
660.00
530.00
470.00

Womens All-around
1. Engesser, Taylor Marie
2. Spratt, Coralee
3. Cofeld, Teisha Maree

Points
790.00
660.83
585.00

Saddle Bronc Riding

1. Nelson, Travis Nestor
2. Miller, Colton J
3. Thurston, Samuel Cole
4. Clark, Tayte Augustus
5. Butner, Tanner Joseph
6. Mardesich, Mason Antone
7. Meiers, Jacob Wayne
8. Dory, Justin Lex
9. Butner, Shawn Coleter
10. Dibbern, Colin Everett
11. Cress, Blaze Colton
12. Deal, Kash B
13. Hageman, Wyatt William
14. Rice, Jedidiah Jesse
15. Trump, Cody Lane
16. Alton, Cade Len

College
GILLET
CWYC
SHERID
SHERID
CWYC
OTERO
CASPER
LARMIE
CWYC
CHADRN
SHERID
SHERID
UWY
CHADRN
CHADRN
LAMAR

Points
810.0
800.0
560.0
395.0
380.0
305.0
240.0
155.0
135.0
120.0
50.0
40.0
40.0
40.0
10.0
10.0

Bareback Riding
1. Wahlert, Dylan Ryan
2. Kissack, Justin Robert
3. McFadden, Nathan Scott
4. Englebert, Chance Leslie
5. Wahlert, Brock Marion
6. Zdziarski, Jeffery Andrew
7. Clark, Jaden Dell
8. Gillies, Nolan Jacob
9. Andrus, Porter Reed
10. Bunner, Jesse Lane
11. Clark, Trig Gordon
12. Aldrich, Kody Robert

College Points
CASPER 1,100.0
CHADRN
795.0
CHADRN
715.0
LARMIE
555.0
UWY
410.0
CASPER
205.0
UWY
150.0
OTERO
90.0
OTERO
80.0
CASPER
60.0
SHERID
40.0
OTERO
40.0

Bull Riding
1. Smith, Jacob Brooks
2. Rice, Dakota Joshua
3. Cole, Chasen Eugene

College
UWY
CHADRN
CHADRN

Points
615.0
270.0
230.0

4. Johnston, Dayton Riley

5. Aldrich, Kody Robert
6. Cunningham, Dalton Lynn
7. Englebert, Chance Leslie
8. Packard, Tim Alan
9. Wilson, Levi Paul
10. Hartman, Weston Brian
11. Davison, Jess Alan
12. Antone, Drew James
13. Olson, Brandon Gregory
14. Wilcox, Kenneth Blue
15. Anaya, Lawrence Alexander

SHERID
OTERO
EWYC
LARMIE
CASPER
SHERID
SHERID
UWY
CASPER
LARMIE
LAMAR
COSU

230.0
215.0
160.0
150.0
150.0
150.0
130.0
110.0
110.0
100.0
90.0
60.0

Tie Down Roping

1. Van Aken, Clayton Edward
2. Lane, Cody Joseph
3. Andersen, Seth Andrew
4. Novak, Prestyn Lane
5. Turner, Trenton Lane
6. Freeman, Aaron Jesse
7. Anders, Colby Kent
8. Boldon, Samuel Wayde
9. Davison, Jess Alan
10. Hale, Casey Ryan
11. Lauing, Lathan William
12. Day, Lane Wyatt
13. Mardesich, Mason Antone
14. Wakeeld, Riley James
15. Rhoads, Tate Rodney

College
CHADRN
EWYC
GILLET
CHADRN
NEJC
EWYC
CHADRN
CHADRN
UWY
CWYC
CHADRN
CHADRN
OTERO
GILLET
GILLET

Points
495.0
392.5
320.0
310.0
240.0
220.0
210.0
170.0
170.0
150.0
135.0
130.0
130.0
125.0
120.0

Steer Wrestling
1. Simonson, Dillon Lee
2. Freeman, Aaron Jesse
3. Hicks, Kadyn Scott
4. Hill, Coltin John
5. Thurston, Brady Jay

College
UWY
EWYC
LAMAR
CWYC
CWYC

Points
385.0
310.0
305.0
290.0
290.0

Thank you to all of our donors!

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR BOOSTERS!

Anadarko Petroleum Corporation
Beacon Corporation
Bud and Kim Byrd
Derrel and June Carruth
Lynnde and Tim Colling
Ethyl and Peter Garrett
John and Sara Felix
Joseph J. Scott Foundation
Myra Fox-Skelton Foundation
Goodstein Foundation

John and Lisa Goss

Renee Hardy
Tracey Hollister
Heath and Jaime Hornecker
Sen. Bill and Robyn Landen
Karel and Ronald Mathisen
Maynard Buckles Spurs and Silver
Dick and LaRee Means
Moss Saddles Boots and Tack

Brett and Cherri Newman

Margo Perry
Matt and Vicki Pollock
Ken and Megan Schafer
Melissa Stahley-Cummings
Teresa Stricklin
Grant Wilson
Wyoming Beverages Inc.
Rep. Tom and Kade Walters
Ronald and Susan Wyatt

WE COULDNT DO IT WITHOUT YOU!

20

STANDINGS
Central Rocky Mountain Region as of March 21, 2016
6. Anders, Colby Kent
7. Wakeeld, Riley James
8. Freeman, Tanner Cameron
9. Dibbern, Devin Jon
10. Burgener, Dalton Bayne
11. Day, Lane Wyatt
12. Antone, Drew James
13. Dailey, Dustin Dale
14. Sellers, Casey Wayne
15. Huxtable, Daniel Earl

CHADRN
GILLET
EWYC
CHADRN
CWYC
CHADRN
CASPER
LARMIE
GILLET
CWYC

260.0
250.0
245.0
220.0
188.3
150.0
148.3
135.0
130.0
130.0

Team Roping Header

1. Van Aken, Clayton Edward
2. Curuchet, Riley John
3. Turner, Trenton Lane
4. Howell, Brooke Jean
5. Sellers, Casey Wayne
6. Merrit, Brady Joseph
7. Colman, Cody Lane
8. Finnerty, John Teigen
9. Lane, Cody Joseph
10. Walker, Gunner George
11. Hetzel, Colby Ty
12. Hageman, Lane Thomas Litman
13. Joseph, Brady Douglas
14. Bradley, Blayne Turner
15. Schnaufer, Trevor Joe

College
CHADRN
EWYC
NEJC
GILLET
GILLET
UWY
EWYC
CWYC
EWYC
EWYC
SHERID
UWY
LARMIE
LARMIE
EWYC

Team Roping Heeler

1. Yates, Trey Don
2. Shaw, Denton Wade
3. Nicholls, Coley B.
4. Wakeeld, Riley James
5. Merritt, Reed Justin

College
LARMIE
EWYC
CASPER
GILLET
UWY

6. Mathis, Tate Duane

7. Ballek, Cody Daniel
8. Novak, Prestyn Lane
9. Olson, Tyus W
10. Rhoads, Tate Rodney
11. Pinneo, Kade Stuart
12. Johnson, Jayden Tyler
13. Serres, Brodey William
14. Weeding, Tyler David
15. Dailey, Dustin Dale

LARMIE
SHERID
CHADRN
EWYC
GILLET
EWYC
LARMIE
UWY
CASPER
LARMIE

210.0
185.0
180.0
180.0
170.0
155.0
145.0
145.0
120.0
110.0

6. Kautzman, Kassie Jo Kay

7. Fortune, Elsie Lee
8. Jolly, Cara Elizabeth
9. Camp, Lacey Mickayla
10. Eagles, Skyler Reigh
11. Sederstrom, Nicole Rose
12. Reimler, Casey Rae
13. Benson, Jade Laura
14. Halverson, Cady Elizabeth
15. Ebert, Meghan Erin

CWYC
CHADRN
NEJC
CASPER
NEJC
NEJC
GILLET
UWY
UWY
CASPER

200.0
200.0
180.0
175.0
165.0
158.3
135.0
135.0
130.0
125.0

Points
465.0
425.0
420.0
315.0
295.0
230.0
210.0
185.0
180.0
155.0
150.0
145.0
120.0
110.0
105.0

Barrel Racing
1. Roman, Melanie Grace
2. Engesser, Taylor Marie
3. Waggoner, Nicole Rose
4. Webb, Kailee Taryn
5. Williams, Kodee Faye
6. Adamson, Linzee Nicolle
7. Lammers, Jorry Allen
8. Jolly, Cara Elizabeth
9. Williams, Kassidy Kay
10. Spratt, Coralee
11. Eagles, Skyler Reigh
12. Huffman, Kenzie Jane
13. Miller, Mariah Nicole
14. Reed, Jayla Raye
15. Conklin, Alyssa Jean

College
LAMAR
GILLET
OTERO
UWY
CASPER
LARMIE
LARMIE
NEJC
CASPER
GILLET
NEJC
GILLET
LARMIE
LAMAR
OTERO

Points
590.00
440.00
400.00
390.00
280.00
265.00
220.00
215.00
215.00
175.00
160.00
155.00
145.00
125.00
120.00

Goat Tying
1. Winchell, Shelby Lynne
2. Vogel, Josee Rae
3. Marchant, Ashten Lee
4. Anderson, Amelia Elyn
5. Cwach, Brandi Jo
6. Cofeld, Teisha Maree
7. Spratt, Coralee
8. Hanson, Calby Brett
9. Erickson, Tioni Scot
10. Monnens, Kaycee Ann
11. Huffman, Kenzie Jane
12. Thompson, Jamie Lanae
13. Reimler, Casey Rae
14. Knust, Kelsey Rae
15. Sederstrom, Nicole Rose

College
CHADRN
UWY
LAMAR
UWY
CHADRN
NEJC
GILLET
SHERID
SHERID
CASPER
GILLET
EWYC
GILLET
CHADRN
NEJC

Points
900.0
470.0
450.0
445.0
360.0
325.0
257.5
235.0
205.0
185.0
177.5
100.0
65.0
55.0
35.0

Points
465.0
425.0
420.0
295.0
230.0

Breakaway Roping
1. Engesser, Taylor Marie
2. Robinson, Callie L
3. Bott, Kooper Kay
4. Cofeld, Teisha Maree
5. Spratt, Coralee

College
GILLET
SHERID
CASPER
NEJC
GILLET

Points
350.0
290.0
265.0
260.0
228.3

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR BOOSTERS!

Agriculture Department Scholarship

Jean D. True Memorial Scholarship

Barbara Scifers Rodeo Scholarship

Kelly and Gena Burch Agriculture

and Livestock Judging Scholarship

Charles C. and C. Dwayne Raymond

Agriculture Scholarship

Michael Steven Luther Rodeo Scholarship

Chris LeDoux Rodeo Scholarship

Myron W. Martin Memorial Scholarship

Dale Stiles Memorial Rodeo Scholarship

Travis Darling Memorial Scholarship

Denver/Francis Miller Memorial Scholarship

Vince Hayes/Outlaw Trail Rides Memorial Scholarship

Dickensheets Family Alumni Scholarship

Zula and Deryl Safford Scholarship

Henry Family Agriculture Scholarship

WE COULDNT DO IT WITHOUT YOU!

21

Proud to provide Sports

Medicine Services for
the NIRA - Central Rocky
Mountain Region!

Fort Collins & Loveland, Colorado

22

800-772-7441

THANK YOU

TO OUR
CASPER COLLEGE CORPORATE PARTNERS
Ameriprise Financial Inc

GW Mechanical Inc

RBC Wealth Management

Atlas Reproduction

Hager & McNamee CPAs LLC

Reliant Federal Credit Union

Bar D Signs

Hilltop National Bank

Remax the Group

Bon Agency, The

Homar, Paul CPA LLC

Richardson Trucking Inc

Bromley Real Estate Company

John Bush, CPA

Brutill Construction

John C. Roussalis MD, PC

Rocky Mountain
Animal Hospital

Bush Wells Sporting Goods Co

Kids Works

Sinclair Casper
Refining Company

Carpet One

Lenhart Mason & Assoc LLC

Source Gas

CASA/Parson Oil LLC

Leos Beverly Street

Auto Repair

Stifel Nicolaus & Co

Cassity Dental Arts

SunSations Tanning Salon LLC

Casper Orthopaedic Associates

Lisa Burridge & Assoc

Real Estate

Casper Star-Tribune

Mobile Concrete Inc

Casper Vision Center

Modern Electric Co

Casper Well Products

Monterastelli Agency Inc

Central Landscaping Inc

True Care Womens

Resource Center

NAPA Auto Parts

Child Development Center

True Drilling LLC

Oil Capital Tree Service

Christmas Dcor of Casper

Union Wireless

Peak Asset Managers LLC

Diversified Builders

Urgent Care of Casper

Pedens Inc

Dons Mobile Carpet

Pepsi Cola Bottling of Casper

Williams Porter Day

& Neville, PC

Dominos

Perkins Restaurant and Bakery

Drew Perkins

Petroleum Assn of Wyoming

Eades Construction

Phillips Chiropractic

Edgewood DBA Meadow Winds

Park Place

Pizza Hut Restaurants

First Interstate Bank

Flanigans Furniture Outlet
Foss Motors

Platte Valley Bank

Power Service Inc
Prevention Management Org
Qdoba Mexican Grill

The Family Clinic

Triple T Remodeling
& Repair LLC

WLC Engineering, Surveying

& Planning
WyHy Federal Credit Union
Wyoming Benefits & Services
Wyoming Livestock Roundup
Wyoming Machinery
Wyoming Oral and Maxillofacial
Wyoming Rents, LLC

23

BUCKLE SPONSORS
Men's All-Around

Women's All-Around

Bull Riding

Goat Tying

Huxtable Ranches

Keith and Brandi Forgey

Paintrock Adventures

Scott Peterson Motors

Bareback Riding

Barrel Racing

Norwood Construction/Clayton Cheeney

Marty Cox/Cox Trucking

Steer Wrestling

Breakaway Roping

Schell Construction

Moss Saddle, Boots and Tack

Saddle Bronc Riding

Team Roping Header

Chancey Williams
and the Younger Brothers Band

Wyoming Signs

Team Roping Heeler

Tie Down Roping

Big O Tires

Wyoming Division of Tourism

Wild Ride

Pepsi Cola Bottling of Casper and the Beacon Club

24