The MSU-Northern rodeo teams wrapped up regular season performances over the weekend with the conclusion of the University of Montana rodeo. New Media Broadcasters spoke with head coach Doug Kallenberger and he said the team did a great job of utilizing a loose approach for the curtain call.
“I think they did a really good job. They had a really good mindset about it,” Kallenberger said. “They got the work ethic. I was really pleased with those performances. I thought they did extremely well.”
“(We’re) looking forward to the College Rodeo Finals, but also looking forward to next year,” Kallenberger continued. “A lot of good returners and a lot of great things (are) happening.”
There was a lot to be proud of for Kallenberger’s teams as the women finished second in the region. Northern’s coach took the time to highlight two individuals: seniors Garrett Cunningham and Mikenna Schauer. They have been some of the most decorated rodeo participants in the history of MSU-Northern and Kallenberger decided to give them their flowers when asked what he took away from the regular season.
“The one that jumps out at me is Garrett Cunningham being a three-time regional saddle bronc riding champion,” Kallenberger said. “Next year, he could four-peat. I don’t think that’s ever been done in the history of Northern, even let alone the region.”
“Mikenna Schauer this year took home the all-around championship. She took home the breakaway and goat tying championship,” Kallenberger continued. “She did so well last fall that she had the lead.”
“The great thing about it is for seeing those two individuals do what they did, it’s just great and it’s awesome for Northern,” Kallenberger said.
MSU-Northern rodeo will have yet another extended break as Cunningham and Schauer will start to prepare for the College National Rodeo Finals, which will take place in the middle of June.
