While the Southeast Community College rodeo program may be one of the newer teams in the region, Head Coach Reed Kraeger is focused on building more than just success inside the arena.
As part of the Nebraska Rodeo Update College Rodeo Tour, Kraeger shared how the SCC Bobcats are developing a culture centered on hard work, accountability and preparing students for life after college.
“It's being able to make that difference and to just in general, make good people,†Kraeger said.
Kraeger, who also has a background in wrestling coaching, said many of the lessons from the wrestling mat translate directly to rodeo. Individual accountability, preparation and mental toughness are all qualities he works to instill in his athletes.
He said the fall rodeo season serves as an important foundation for success later in the year, allowing athletes to develop skills, build confidence and prepare for the spring run.
Recruiting also plays a key role in the program's growth. Kraeger said his goal is not simply to recruit talented rodeo competitors, but students who will contribute positively to the team and leave SCC prepared for successful careers after graduation.
That team-first culture was evident throughout the Bobcats roster.
For steer wrestler Kaden Haake, who grew up in Nebraska's Sandhills, attending college was not originally part of the plan. Today, he is focused on helping establish a legacy within the young SCC program.
Haake credited the practice opportunities available at SCC for helping him develop as a competitor.
“Here at Southeast, we get all the practice we want. We're jumping steers probably 30 or 40 times a week,†Haake said.
During the interview, Haake discussed the preparation required for steer wrestling, the importance of a quality hazer and the techniques necessary to compete successfully at the collegiate level.
Fellow steer wrestler Dawson Doggett of Callaway also highlighted the opportunities that come with being part of a growing program.
Now in his second year, Doggett has embraced a leadership role while helping set the standard for future SCC teams.
“I try to put myself out there as more of a team leader now because it's my second year, and I think that's a great role for me to be in,†Doggett said.
Doggett discussed the differences between high school and collegiate rodeo, the characteristics of a quality steer wrestling horse and the preparation required to compete consistently.
The College Rodeo Tour also visited with breakaway roper Hallee Sheffield of Curtis.
Sheffield comes from a family deeply connected to rodeo, having grown up watching her father compete in team roping and learning about the sport through generations of family involvement.
“What mainly keeps me in it is family, and the horses, and just the love for swinging a rope,†Sheffield said.
She shared her thoughts on the continued growth of breakaway roping, the role models who have influenced her career and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset while competing.
The Nebraska Rodeo Update College Rodeo Tour is brought to you by Whitetail Properties land specialists Jason and Kari Christensen and Crusty's Feed Store.
