NSU announces addition of varsity rodeo program

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Northeastern State University (NSU) is proud to announce the addition of varsity rodeo as its newest intercollegiate athletic program, creating new opportunities for student-athletes while celebrating the rich agricultural heritage and Western traditions of Northeast Oklahoma.

Made possible through the generous support of Craig and Waynita Philpott and their donation of access to Rockin P Arena, one of Oklahoma's newest and most state-of-the-art rodeo facilities, the NSU Rodeo Team will have a premier setting for training, competition and program development. Rockin P Arena will serve as the program’s headquarters, providing exceptional indoor and outdoor facilities for practices, livestock housing, competitions and special events.

The addition of rodeo reflects NSU's commitment to expanding opportunities for student-athletes while embracing a sport deeply woven into the culture and identity of Oklahoma. Rodeo remains one of the state's most celebrated traditions, particularly throughout Green Country, where strong agricultural roots have produced generations of accomplished competitors and champions.

"As we continue to grow opportunities for our students, rodeo represents a natural fit for Northeastern State University and the communities we serve," NSU President Rodney Hanley said. "This program honors the heritage of our region while creating new opportunities for student success, leadership and athletic achievement. We are grateful to Craig and Waynita Philpott for their extraordinary partnership and investment in our students and university."

The partnership with Rockin P Arena was instrumental in making the program possible. Through the Philpotts' generous support, NSU student-athletes will train, compete and participate in special events at one of Oklahoma’s premier rodeo venues.

"We are excited to partner with Northeastern State University and support the launch of its new rodeo program," Craig and Waynita Philpott said. "We believe this program will be a tremendous asset to our community by creating opportunities for student-athletes while promoting the Western heritage, values and traditions that are so important to Northeast Oklahoma.

We are honored to play a role in supporting the growth and success of NSU Rodeo. We look forward to working together and celebrating the achievements of these young men and women for many years to come."

For John Sisemore, NSU Director of Athletics, the addition of rodeo represents a unique opportunity to expand the university's athletic offerings while honoring the traditions and values of Northeast Oklahoma.

"I am tremendously excited to launch the rodeo program at Northeastern State University," Sisemore said. "As a lifelong rancher, this opportunity is especially meaningful to me and my family because rodeo has always been an important part of our lives and the culture of this region.

Sisemore said the university’s partnership with world champion bull rider Ryan Dirteater will be instrumental in establishing the program.

"Having the opportunity to work alongside legendary rodeo champion Ryan Dirteater in developing this program will be a tremendous privilege,” Sisemore said “His experience, reputation and passion for the sport will help establish NSU Rodeo as a premier destination for student-athletes. I am confident that NSU Rodeo will become a source of pride for our university and our community for years to come."

Dirteater will serve as a mentor to student-athletes while assisting with coaching, recruiting and building a championship-caliber program. His experience, leadership and reputation within the sport will help position NSU as a competitive force in collegiate rodeo.

Dirteater said the program will provide a unique opportunity for aspiring rodeo athletes to pursue both their educational and competitive goals while remaining connected to their communities and the traditions that define Northeast Oklahoma.

"When I think about rodeo, I don't just think about the arena. I think about family, community and opportunity," Dirteater said. "For years, many talented rodeo athletes have had to leave home to pursue their education while continuing to compete. Adding a rodeo team at NSU gives those students the opportunity to stay closer to home, earn a degree and continue doing what they love.”

Dirteater said that the sport also instills qualities that help students succeed in both college and beyond.

"As someone who spent 15 years riding bulls professionally, I can tell you that rodeo teaches grit and perseverance. Throughout my career, I was bucked off more often than I made successful rides. In fact, I failed about 58 percent of the time. Rodeo taught me that success isn't about never failing, it's about getting back up and trying again. Those are the same qualities it takes to earn a degree, build a career and succeed in life.”

In addition to serving as the home of NSU Rodeo, Rockin P Arena will host a variety of NSU-sponsored events, creating new opportunities for community engagement and strengthening connections between the university, the agricultural community and rodeo enthusiasts across the region.

The launch of NSU Rodeo marks a new chapter for the university, creating opportunities for student-athletes to pursue their academic and competitive goals while remaining connected to the communities they call home. Supported by strong community partnerships, the program is positioned for long-term success and regional impact.

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