Thunderbird (M-Rodeo) Finishes 2025-26 Season in Casper

The Thunderbirds ended their 2025-26 men's rodeo season on Thursday, June 18 at the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming.

Team roper Teagan Taylor-Roukema finished his first appearance at the CNFR Thursday with a no time in the performance of the third go. Taylor-Roukema and his partner were a 13.0 in Round 1 and a no time in Round 2. 

"Teagan had a tough week, but I think it's built a fire in him to come back and get some revenge next year. He'll be that much more prepared," NMJC men's rodeo head coach Stewy Kinley said.

Tie down roper Treyden Gonzales finished his CNFR competing in the Tuesday performance recording an 8.0 run, but he broke the barrier and added a plus 10 to make it an 18.0 run. Gonzales was an 11.7 in the first go and had his steer kick free in Round 2 after a 9.2 run. Gonzales finished in 27th place overall in the tie down roping. 

"I'm really proud of Treyden from the start of the season to the end of the CNFR," Coach Kinley said. "He got by a tough first calf here, then his 2nd calf got up even after putting 2 wraps on him. He caught the barrier gunning for the third round, but he's continued to prove that he belongs and could contend for a national championship again next year."

The T-Birds close the chapter on the 2025-26 season but have a lot to look forward to when the 2026 fall season begins.

"I'm really excited for next season," Coach Kinley said "We've got a great group of guys and expectations are high. This year was another great stepping stone to where we're headed!"

Results for the CNFR can be found here.

Stay up to date on T-Bird rodeo by following the NMJC rodeo socials on Facebook (New Mexico Jr. College Rodeo) and Instagram @nmjc_rodeo.