Rodeo at the University of Montana
Tradition. Excellence. Grizzly Pride.
The University of Montana Rodeo Team proudly competes in the Big Sky Region, which includes teams from:
UM-Western, Montana State University, MSU-Northern, Miles Community College, Dawson Community College, Carroll College, Montana Tech, University of Providence (Great Falls), Little Big Horn College, Blackfeet Community College, and Northwest College in Powell, Wyoming.
Events
Men’s Events:
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Tie-Down Roping
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Steer Wrestling
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Team Roping
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Bull Riding
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Bareback Riding
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Saddle Bronc Riding
Women’s Events:
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Barrel Racing
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Breakaway Roping
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Goat Tying
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Team Roping
The majority of our team members come from the ranks of Montana high school rodeo, though we proudly welcome outstanding student-athletes from across the West — including Wyoming, South Dakota, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, and even as far away as New York and South Carolina.
A Tradition of Champions
UM Rodeo boasts a long history of excellence dating back to the late 1940s, when Delos Robins claimed the title of National Champion Steer Wrestler. Since then, UM student-athletes have earned Regional Championships in every event and have represented the University at the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) every year since 1990, either as individuals or as full teams.
Notable achievements include:
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Lisa Schaffer (1985): Women’s All-Around Champion and National Champion Barrel Racer
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Rachel Myllymaki (1997): National Champion Barrel Racer; led the women’s team to a second-place national finish
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Bryant Mikkelson (1999): National Men’s All-Around and Steer Wrestling Champion; led the men’s team to fifth place nationally
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Dustin Jenkins (2008): National Champion Bull Rider
Today, the University of Montana Rodeo Team continues to build on its remarkable legacy—developing talented student-athletes who embody excellence, teamwork, and the enduring spirit of Montana rodeo.