NTCC Rodeo sends four to CNFR

Pictured (from left) is: Dustin Jackson, Zack Bocco, Coach C.J. Mohl, Kolt Henderson and Chelsie Wilhoite.†

The Notheast Texas Community College Eagles Rodeo Team will once again be represented at the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR). Four NTCC athletes finished high enough in the Southern Region standings to earn spots at the CNFR in Casper, Wyoming this June 10-16.

Dustin Jackson of Mabank †finished second place in Men's All-around, qualifying him to compete in both the Bareback and Team Roping events. Zack Bocco of Fruitvale will be traveling with him as his team roping partner.

Kolt Henderson of Omaha took first place in Tie Down Roping, beating the second place spot by almost 150 points. Chelsie Willhoite of McClave, Colorado finished second in the breakaway roping, giving the NTCC women's team a presence at the finals.

"This has been a competitive season and our team members fought hard to earn these spots at the CNFR. Our region is one of the toughest in the country," C.J. Mohl, NTCC Head Rodeo Coach, said. "These four athletes are some of the most mentally tough competitors on the team. I have complete confidence that they will do well in Casper.?

NTCC had hoped to send a full men's team to the CNFR, but was edged out of the second place position by just a few points by McNeese State University. The NTCC women's team finished fifth place overall in the standings.

"We had hoped to field a full men's team for the finals, but it just didn't work out this year. Those guys fought hard all season and I am proud of what they accomplished," Mohl said.

Fans can follow the action online at cnfr.com during the rodeo (June 10-16). More than 400 athletes from over 100 colleges and universities will compete for national titles.