Northwest Kansas Technical College adds rodeo team

Northwest Kansas Technical College announces the addition of an intercollegiate rodeo team.

The Northwest Kansas Technical College Area Board of Control approved the addition of a rodeo team under the leadership of Lester Cress. This opportunity has been made possible thanks to the generosity of John Boyington and his family. The Boyingtons have donated the land and facility so that the team will have ample practice and boarding facilities for their horses.

Lester Cress, coach of the team, is a staff member in the Diesel Technology Program and belongs to the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association. Cress brings a wealth of experience and knowledge along with Brenda Cress, who will be serving as assistant coach of the team.

The Northwest Tech Rodeo team will consist of seven students (men and/or women) and begin in the fall of 2010. The team will be a part of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association and according to Coach Lester Cress, "The team will place emphasis on timed events, but will welcome rough stock riders."

The program is considered a sports program and will have the same criteria as other sports regarding academic student requirements.

"This is another opportunity for Northwest Tech to enhance the student life available for those attending the College, " said Dr. Ed Mills, president of Northwest Tech.

The Northwest Tech rodeo team will officially kick-off in August with a barbecue. Any student entering the college in fall that is interested in joining the Rodeo Team should contact Lester Cress at 785-890-1560.

For additional information on Northwest Kansas Technical College, go to www.nwktc.edu.

Date: 3/15/10