FRESNO STATE BULLDOGGERS SHARE CLUB SPORT EXPERIENCE
The Fresno State rodeo team, known as the Bulldoggers, is a club sport that participates in college rodeo events all over the west coast.
“I heel, so I rope the back feet,” Rial Engelhart explains. “Calf roping, you rope the calf and tie three legs, and bulldogging is pretty self-explanatory; you just throw the steer down.â
The team practices on campus in an arena adjacent to the equestrian grounds. The practice area is surrounded by multiple stalls where students board their own horses. Members come out throughout the day to tend to and ride their horses. They also practice regularly as a team. Aside from the exciting road events, most members have made their favorite memories while practicing on campus.
âItâs just a lot of fun,” said Kelly Greif, another member of the Bulldoggers. “You meet a lot of new people, and we always have a good time when we’re practicing or hanging out after practice and stuff. Just a lot of good people.â
The rodeo team allows students to get more involved and meet new people at Fresno State. While they are here to get their degrees, gaining college experience is about a whole lot more than just passing classes.
Senior Meagan Coppo says she believes that joining the team has helped her be more connected to the CSU.
âI think it helps because if you just go to class, go home, and go to work, itâs not as fun and exciting,” Coppo says. “But I can go to class and then come out here, hang out, rope the dummy, ride — do whatever we can do out here. So itâs nice to have people to come hang out with, and youâve got your horses on campus so thatâs good, too.â
Club sports like the Fresno State rodeo team present a great opportunity for Fresno State students to make both achievements and memories during their college career.