Investing in the Cal Poly Rodeo
How you can make a difference
We seek to raise $5 million to establish a Cotton Rosser Rodeo Endowment that will support the future of Cal Poly’s Rodeo in perpetuity. This endowment will honor rodeo legend and Cal Poly alumni Cotton Rosser and ensure that our Rodeo program will always have the funding and resources needed to not only survive, but to thrive. This endowment will support the program in three key areas:
Student success
With the right people and resources, we will continue to groom rodeo champions and winning individuals. Investing in student success means funding student scholarships so that money isn’t an inhibiting factor standing in the ways of a student’s dream to come to Cal Poly. Investing in student success also includes support for personal and professional development opportunities, which may include work-study projects, design and implementation tasks, and assistant coach positions and internships.
Facility improvement projects
The international reputation of Poly Royal Rodeo as the largest collegiate rodeo in the world has brought the Cal Poly Rodeo program to the forefront. To ensure the continued success of our students and to keep up with growing demand, we need upgraded facilities that reflect the caliber of our program. Whether it is new stadium lighting, a covered arena where students can practice regardless of weather conditions, or basic amenities like permanent restrooms and additional stalls, rodeo grounds improvements ensure our student-athletes have the resources needed to succeed.
Rodeo operations
Practice stock, feed, maintenance and minor repairs, travel — they all have a cost. Support for the program’s operational budget would allow for more practice opportunities, professional clinics, premier equipment, travel assistance and maintenance funds — and would eliminate the need for us to rely solely on proceeds from the annual Poly Royal Rodeo, which is at risk in times of crisis.
Cal Poly Rodeo is more than just an extracurricular activity. This program has a legacy of instilling student-athletes with important life skills such as...
Teamwork
Time Management
Discipline
Responsibility
Drive and Dedication
Integrity
"Being a student-athlete on the Cal Poly Rodeo team has shaped me into the person I am today. I will leave here with the life skills and experience to make a difference in the world. It has been an honor to be part of this program and I cannot be more excited for the future of the Cal Poly Rodeo team."
— Jane Wood
Contact
RUSS KABAKER
Assistant Dean, Advancement and External Relations
rkabaker@calpoly.edu
805-756-6601
BEN LONDO
Rodeo Coach
blondo@calpoly.edu
805-459-7764
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