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Last month, more than 60 supporters of the ����Ӱ�� Rodeo Team convened in Rapid City during the Black Hills Stock Show for the annual SDSU Rodeo Informational Breakfast.

The team’s boosters hear inspiring stories from rodeo team members and distinguished guest speakers at the yearly celebration.

“The increased momentum that our rodeo program has been gaining in recent years is very exciting to be a part of, for sure,” SDSU head rodeo coach Ron Skovly said. “Leading a program with fantastic booster support, 40 team members with a cumulative GPA average of 2.9 and multiple team members in the top standings of our college region is very rewarding. Thank you to all our SDSU Rodeo Boosters for supporting us.”

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden, who played a pivotal role in having rodeo designated as the state sport during his tenure in the South Dakota Legislature, delivered remarks about the significance of rodeo to the state. The keynote speaker for the event was former SDSU football coach John Stiegelmeier, who shared insights on his experiences recruiting, coaching and making a difference.

Two rodeo team members also shared their experiences with the team. Rodeo Club President Jazz McGirr, a senior majoring in graphic design and breakaway roper from Huron, and Rodeo Club Treasurer Chloe Dekam, a senior majoring in agricultural science and barrel racer from Middleville, Michigan, emphasized the team’s strong sense of camaraderie in the value of their experiences on the team during their remarks.

At the board meeting the day before the breakfast, new officers were elected to the SDSU Rodeo Boosters board of directors: Don Reichert of Sioux Falls as chair, Laura McGirr of Huron as vice chair, Karla Abbott of Sioux Falls as secretary and Patty Dewey of Rapid City as treasurer. The newly appointed board members will hold their positions for one year.

“It is truly an honor and privilege to serve as chair of the SDSU Rodeo Boosters board of directors,” Reichert, SDSU’s only two-time College National Finals Rodeo champion, said. “I am dedicated to advancing our mission, supporting student athletes and fostering the continued growth of the rodeo program.”

Also recognized at the breakfast were Kasey and Karla Abbott of Sioux Falls, for their significant pledge and contribution to the SDSU Rodeo Program Facility Improvement Fund. Continued support for the team helps cover travel expenses, scholarships and upkeep of the practice facilities.

The SDSU Rodeo Team has two upcoming events at its home base in Brookings. The annual Buckles and Bling recognition dinner and scholarship fundraiser is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, April 9, at Club 71 in Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium. This event will be followed by the 70th annual Jackrabbit Stampede, held at the Dacotah Bank Center in Brookings April 10-11.