What if I told you that the largest high school rodeo in the world is just a few short weeks away? You read that right! Over 1,800 of the best high school rodeo athletes are headed to Rock Springs, Wyoming this July 13-19 for the National High School Finals Rodeo. High schoolers from the U.S., Australia, Canada, Mexico, and New Zealand, will be vying for their spot in NHSFR history. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be a part of the seven days of excitement!
July 13-19, 2025
Sweetwater Events Complex
3320 Yellowstone Rd, Rock Springs, WY 82901
“We are thrilled to welcome back the National High School Finals Rodeo to Rock Springs for another exhilarating edition,” says Kandi Pendleton, executive director of the Sweetwater Events Complex. “This event not only brings together the best young rodeo talent from across the country but also showcases the warm hospitality and vibrant community spirit that define our town.”
NHSRA History
The National High School Rodeo Association began as a simple, logical idea that quickly took shape into something extraordinary. The concept was born from the vision of Claude Mullins, a Texas educator who was deeply passionate about both rodeo and the young people he worked with. Growing up in the 1920s around horses, cattle, and all kinds of sports, Mullins developed a love for rodeo as small competitions began popping up during the 1930s. By 1940, while working as Deputy State Superintendent for the Texas State Department of Education, Mullins noticed local boys regularly gathering after school to rope calves and steers. Inspired by their enthusiasm and commitment, he began to wonder why rodeo couldn’t be treated like any other high school sport – with official titles, recognition, and a state champion.
Mullins took that dream to Hallettsville, Texas, where he accepted a superintendent position in 1946 and shared his vision with two close friends, Alton Allen and Leon Kahanek, both cattlemen who shared his passion. With their help and leadership, the first Texas State High School Championship Rodeo was held in 1947, featuring 121 entries in two events. The overwhelming response sparked similar events in other states, and by 1949, the first National High School Rodeo Finals were held, marking the official founding of the NHSRA. Now, 75 years later, with over 10,500 members and over 1,500 contestants at the NHSFR, the organization continues to thrive. The addition of a Junior High Division in 2004 has only expanded its reach, bringing Mullins’ original dream to life for a whole new generation. No doubt, he’d be incredibly proud of the legacy he helped build!
Ticket Information
Season Passes
*Entry to all Rodeo Performances must be redeemed for a wristband. Each person must be present to receive their wristband applied by ticket staff. Season Pass includes entry to all rodeo performances.
Purchase prior to Friday, July 11
Adult (ages 13 and up) – $110*
Child (ages 5 to 12) – $55*
*plus ticketing fees
Purchase on and after Friday, July 11
Adult (ages 13 and up) – $130*
Child (ages 5 to 12) – $65*
*plus ticketing fees
Single Performance Tickets
Daily performance tickets are sold just prior to that performance at each ticket booth
Supporting the Next Generation
Here at Cowboy Lifestyle Network, we love watching and supporting the next generation of rodeo. The National High School Finals Rodeo isn’t just about winning – it’s about making lasting memories and witnessing future rodeo stars blossom. The western lifestyle is alive and well, and we’re so pumped to cheer them on as they keep this great tradition going strong!
Last Updated on 06/12/2025 by Carly Billington
About the Author:
CLN Community & Event Sponsor
