Heber City, Utah – We’re just a few short weeks away from this year’s Utah High School Rodeo Finals! Taking place at Wasatch County Outdoor Arena in Heber City, Utah, this event will showcase some of the state’s best high school rodeo athletes. After the dust settles, four competitors from each event will punch their ticket to compete at the National High School Finals in Rock Springs, Wyoming!
June 2 – 7, 2025
Wasatch County Outdoor Arena
415 South Southfield Road. Heber City, Utah 84032
All-Around Action
Students from across the state of Utah will gather to compete in Barrel Racing, Pole Bending, Goat Tying, Breakaway Roping, Cutting, Bull Riding, Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Tie Down Roping, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, as well as High School Rifle and High School Trap. Whether you’re a rodeo veteran or a first-time spectator, high school rodeo offers a front-row seat to some of the most exciting youth rodeo action in the country.
Click HERE for a full schedule for the week!
The History of High School Rodeo
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.
A Legacy Built on Passion
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!
“The NHSRA has deep roots in preserving western heritage and it goes without saying that is thanks to many of our partners and sponsors. High school rodeo has such a rich and illustrious history throughout the western sports industry, and we are excited to keep bringing it to the forefront.”
-Gary Hawkes, VP of Marketing
NHSRA
Don’t Miss the Thrill
As a former high school rodeo competitor, I know how much work goes into each season, and there’s nothing like the thrill of knowing your hard work finally paid off. Best of luck to every single competitor! If you’re in the area or looking for a great summer event, go cheer on these talented young athletes!
Last Updated on 05/14/2025 by Carly Billington
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CLN Community & Event Sponsor
