McNeese Rodeo Team Going to the 2025 CNFR

The McNeese State University men’s rodeo team has claimed its fourth straight championship title in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association’s (NIRA) Southern Region. Six members of the team, and one member of the women’s team, are traveling to the 2025 College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) June 15-21 in Casper, Wyoming. 

McNeese dominated the Southern Region saddle bronc standings, capturing the top four spots. Izaah Bartels, of New Underwood, South Dakota, is champion, Caleb Miller, of Welsh, is reserve champion, Jace Nixon, of Lake Charles, finished third and Drew Bordelon, of Ville Platte, is fourth. All four will represent McNeese in saddle bronc riding at the CNFR. 

“We all work hard all year round and we all put in the blood, sweat and tears into it together,” Bartels said. “So, it means a lot to go and compete with the guys that you work with all year.” 

Also qualifying are Jacob Lamon, of Wells, Texas, in bareback riding and Kash Krogman, of Sturgis, South Dakota, in bull riding. Both say they are excited to have another opportunity to ride. 

“To be one of the top six guys from the Southern Region heading to Wyoming means so much,” Lamon said. 

On the women’s side, Alyssa Gary, of LeBleu Settlement, qualified to compete at the CNFR in goat tying after a strong season. “It’s a long race to get to the CNFR, but it’s finally here,” she said. 

In preparing for the intensity of the CNFR, the team remains focused on bringing home a national title, either as individuals or as a team. 

“Being on the rodeo team has taught me to chase my dreams and to strive to be better every day. Even if some days I want to pull my hair out it taught me just to keep pushing,” Nixon said. “When you’re getting your teeth kicked in, at anything, you have to try to keep going with a smile and work forward.” 

Miller says being on the rodeo team has taught him that sometimes sacrifice leads to success. “I’ve also learned to hold myself to a higher standard, so when I go out into the real world, I can perform at a higher level.” 

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