NMSU Rodeo Association NMSU, part of the Grand Canyon Region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, which consists of Western New Mexico, Southern Nevada, and Arizona, has about 36 rodeo team members who successfully combine academic and rodeo performances to make NMSU's Rodeo Team one of the best in the region. Besides the academic aspect, NMSU is one of the toughest national competitors in timed events, especially team roping. Distinguished alumni include champion ropers Jim Cooper and Jimmy Garcia. Participants compete in the men's events of bull, bareback and saddlebronc riding, steer wrestling, calf roping, and team roping. Women compete in barrels, breakaway roping, and goat tying.
Team roping is the only co-ed event.
Six men and four women are selected as team riders, based on recent performances. The team can vary from week to week, depending on recent consistency and placings. NMSU's team travels to 10 rodeos each season, earning a possible 120 points in each event at each rodeo. Last year, NMSU sent one contestant to Intercollegiate National Rodeo Association Finals. The two teams leading in regional points at the season's end advance to the National Finals.