TAHLEQUAH –  Northeastern State University officially added varsity rodeo to its intercollegiate athletics lineup Thursday, marking the launch of a new program that will begin competition in sanctioned events in 2027, pending approval.

"I am tremendously excited to launch the rodeo program," Director of Athletics John Sisemore said. "As a lifelong rancher, this opportunity is especially meaningful to me and my family, as rodeo has always been a significant part of our lives and the culture of this region."

The NSU Rodeo program will be based at Rockin P Arena in Tahlequah, which will serve as the team's primary site for training, livestock handling and competition. The facility provides both indoor and outdoor space to support day-to-day program operations, practices and events throughout the year. Access to Rockin P Arena is provided by its owners, Craig and Waynita Philpott.

"We are excited to partner with Northeastern State University and its new rodeo program," the Philpotts said. "We believe this program will be a tremendous asset to our community, providing opportunities for student-athletes while promoting the western heritage and values that are so important to our area."

"I am honored to partner with the owners of Rockin P Arena as we utilize their beautiful, state-of-the-art facility to build this program," Sisemore added. "Their commitment to the sport and the community makes them outstanding partners in this historic endeavor."

The program will be assisted by the mentorship of Ryan Dirteater, a 12-time qualifier for the PBR World Finals and the 2016 PBR World Finals event winner. A Cherokee citizen from Hulbert and a member of the North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame, Dirteater will assist with coaching, recruiting and overall program development.

"Rodeo teaches grit and perseverance," Dirteater said. "Success isn't about never failing — it's about getting back up and trying again. Those are the same qualities it takes to earn a degree and succeed in life."

"Having the opportunity to work alongside legendary rodeo champion Ryan Dirteater in developing this program will be a tremendous privilege," Sisemore said. "His experience, reputation and passion for the sport will help establish NSU Rodeo as a premier destination for student-athletes."

The addition of rodeo not only signals NSU's embrace of a proud and celebrated sport in Northeast Oklahoma, but it also creates new opportunities for local student-athletes to pursue both their academic and athletic goals close to home.

"For many years, talented rodeo athletes have had to leave home to compete while earning their degrees. Adding a rodeo team at NSU gives those students the opportunity to stay closer to home while getting their education and doing what they love," Dirteater said.

As NSU Athletics enters this new era, Sisemore called the moment "undoubtedly one of the most significant milestones of my career."

"I look forward to helping create opportunities for future generations of rodeo athletes, while making a lasting impact on Northeast Oklahoma, the agricultural community and the many families who call this region home."

A hiring committee is currently being formed with the goal of making a hire within the next month to begin the recruiting process.