How much does it cost?

The California Community College system’s is geared to supply its residents low cost education charging $20 per unit and out-of-state $201 per unit (the out-of-state cost at West Hills in some cases is cheaper that in the instate fees in other states).  The rodeo program fee is $100 per semester and you will be allowed the use of one horse stall per semester. Additional horse stalls cost $100 per semester.  Each student is required to pay $15 for a physical as well as purchase his or her membership into the NIRA. Tuition for a full time student in the rodeo program is approximately $600-$700 plus books and housing.

How do I get on the team?

The rodeo team is chosen by the Coach before each rodeo out of the entire roster in the rodeo program and is based upon skill level and experience.

Hard to say! How good are you? Our recruitment efforts generate some of the nations top rodeo athletes so it can be difficult to be chosen to be on the team.  However, everyone who is in the rodeo program and who are academically eligible and in good standing with the school, and the coach, can enter and compete in all the regional rodeos. So whether you are on or off the team you have the same opportunities to compete. If you are in the “winner’s circle”, you will be on the Team!

If you are one of the six men on the men’s team or one of the four girls on the women’s team you will receive travel Money to the rodeos. Those not on the team has to fund their travels themselves.

Do you have any rodeo scholarships?

Yes, you can print out the application form and return it by the designated deadline. It is also highly recommended that you send in a video of yourself in competition or in practice along with setting up an interview with the coach. Individuals should apply for both Federal and State Student Aid programs and can request these forms from their own High School or the West Hills Community College Financial Aid office. It is always important to apply early!

How much experience do I need?

In order to be accepted into the rodeo program, prospective students need to be experienced in rodeo.  Most of our recruits have competed in organized High School rodeo and have a minimum of knowledge and skills in the basics. Individuals who enroll and want to “try it out” or “see what its like” need to go to one of many rodeo clinics or schools that are put on all over the country by professionals.

Do I need my own equipment and horse?

Definitely, West Hills Community College supplies our students with practice stock, calves, steers, bulls, broncs and goats, but each person needs their own equipment and horse. Students are responsible for their own horse’s welfare and feed. Students are also responsible for their own transportation for themselves and their horse to the rodeos.

Can I win money in College rodeos?

Absolutely, Each person pays an entry fee per event; per rodeo and unlike other college sport where their participants can’t complete for cash we have no such restrictions. Students have a good weekend and pocket over $1000,but realistically the timed events have high number of contestants than the rough stock events so they pay more and $1000 is not the norm!

How Many Rodeos are there each year?

Each region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association is limited to ten rodeos plus the Regional Finals and the National Finals.  Our geographical location in the middle of the state minimizes our travel. Our furthest trip is to Las Vegas to the south and Susanville to the north.  This is an important fact when considering schools.

For further information you can e-mail Coach Hunt, or call to set up an interview and/or tour.