An exclusive with Bobcats' new rodeo coach

Since 1949, the MSU rodeo team has been a powerhouse in the Big Sky region. Recently the women’s rodeo team led Montana State to National Championship status once again. Exactly a decade after their previous championship run (2011), the women clinched the 2021 Women’s Rodeo National Championship and brought an endless celebration to Bozeman. Just a few months later, more exciting news broke when it was announced the rodeo team would now be led by Kyle Whitaker, a former professional tie-down roper, steer wrestler and saddle bronc rider.

The Exponent was able to grab an exclusive interview with Whitaker in September. When asked about Bozeman and what sticks out about Gallatin Valley, Whitaker had nothing but admiration for the area. “I love the support of the university and the community for the rodeo team. The scenery is obviously amazing and the people have been very welcoming and helpful.”

Whitaker has plenty of experience with rodeo, which is especially clear with the goals he set for himself in hopes of inspiring and motivating. “To make sure I do everything I can to provide an environment where kids can reach their potential. I want to make sure we provide the right coaching and facilities so high school athletes believe they can come here and get better and parents feel like their children are learning not just to be great contestants but also great individuals who will be prepared to succeed in rodeo and in life,” he said. Whitaker discussed how his past played a major role in his current outlook, “I had some of my dad's traveling partners help teach me and they were always pumping me up and making me believe I was better than I probably was. As a coach now, that's how I want to make the kids on this team feel.”

Whitaker also credited his love for steer wrestling to his dad’s travel partners. Whitaker also discussed his interest in other events as well. “I do love all my events, tie down roping I think is the toughest to win at consistently because there's so many variables in that event and the depth of competition is amazing. I really like getting on good bucking horses, but at my age getting on a tough, hard to ride bronc is not very appealing!”

Whitaker previously described the Bozeman community as one that supported rodeo, and it was an instant draw to MSU on top of his long time interest in being a coach. Whitaker spoke briefly as if he was addressing the community directly. “I would like to thank them for supporting the rodeo. Our sport celebrates the rugged nature of how this country was settled while providing quality family entertainment. I really believe rodeo is the best celebration of American history you can find today.  The kids on our team are incredibly talented and motivated and really appreciate your support.”

If you want to support the rodeo team one way to get involved is the “Chute Boss Club.” This is similar to a booster club to help raise money for the team and to continue its ability to dominate the Big Sky Region at rodeo events.

Be sure to show up on Saturday, Oct. 9, as the MSU Fall Finale Rodeo takes place in Bozeman before finishing up until the spring. As of Monday, Sept. 27, the Bobcat men’s and women’s teams are in first place by large margins, falling in the top five in each event for the Big Sky region.