College campuses are designed to give students opportunities to interact with others, explore their interests, and become involved outside the academics. At Foothill College, students can join many different clubs and organizations, but there currently is no club or team that represents the western heritage of Rodeo. Having a Rodeo club team at Foothill college would give the students a new way to build a community, represent our agricultural communities in California and bring more attention to a sport important to many students across California. 

Rodeo is more than just entertainment. For many people, it is a part of their lifestyle, family traditions, and culture. California has a strong rodeo history and many colleges already have elite rodeo teams. Schools like Cal Poly and Fresno State have very successful college rodeo teams that allow students to compete while continuing their education. Kate, a 4th year student at Cal Poly, whom I interviewed, wrote/said, “This experience has made my college career worth all the tired days I have gone through.” Even though Foothill is a community college, there are several community colleges that have rodeo teams as well, like Cuesta or Allan Hancock College. A rodeo club at Foothill College could help students who are interested in western sports feel more connected to campus life. 

Even the students who do not compete in rodeo could benefit from a club like this. A rodeo club can host events, organize trips to rodeos, and educate students about agriculture and western traditions. It could also create opportunities for students to meet people with similar interests and build friendships outside of class. Since Foothill College has students from many different backgrounds, adding a rodeo club would help bring more diversity to campus activities. ” I have gotten to make so many friends and connected with a lot of jobs as well,” Kate noted.

Many students in rodeo have learned valuable life skills such as responsibility, time management, and discipline. Rodeo athletes often balance school, work, practice and caring for animals at the same time. These experiences help students grow both personally and academically. “ I will say it is a lot of work to do both [school and rodeo],” said Kate. “but if you are a responsible person and enjoy being involved this should be a great fit for anyone.” A rodeo club can encourage leadership opportunities and teamwork while giving students a positive outlet outside of schoolwork. 

Although Foothill College does not have a rodeo program, starting with a club could be the first step toward building one in the structure. A rodeo club team would give students a place to share their interests, represent western culture, and create a stronger sense of community on campus. ”I highly recommend for anyone to even just go to a rodeo and see the environment it brings to people,” Kate said, “it’s a feeling like no other.”