The Western Texas College rodeo team will start the fall schedule at the Eastern New Mexico University rodeo Thursday.
The Westerners return three athletes from last year’s team that competed at the National Finals Rodeo — Twister Vinson (team roping), Joshua Walker (calf roping) and Kodie Jang (steer wrestling).
Head coach Greg Rhodes expects newcomers Blaise Freeman and Ross Griffin to make an immediate impact in saddle bronc riding. Zach Hibler and Tim Murphy are athletes to watch in bareback riding.
Jacob Spencer and Jake Plate will compete in bull riding. Colt Matthews, who will be competing in team roping, steer wrestling and calf roping, rounds out the lineup.
Three newcomers highlight the roster for the Lady Westerners — Colby Armour (breakaway roping), Kenna Sullivan (breakaway roping, goat tying and barrel racing) and McKenzie McAngus (breakaway roping, goat tying and barrel racing).
Madi Harris returns in barrel racing. Rhodes expects freshmen McKayla Lucas and Elysa Mora to make an impact in barrel racing.
The rodeo will continue Friday with the finals set on Saturday.