WEATHERFORD, Okla. – A trio of SWOSU rodeo team members performed well enough on the professional circuit in 2013 to earn special accolades for the year.
Sage Kimzey, a sophomore bull ride for the Bulldogs this year, led all permit holders in 2013 with earnings of $47,726, a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) single-season record. He also finished first in the PRCA Permit Challenge, which was held in Las Vegas at the National Finals Rodeo in December. Kimzey, a native of Strong City, Okla., finished fourth in bull riding at the College National Finals Rodeo at the conclusion of his freshman season.
Brodie Poppino completed his career at SWOSU last spring and went into the PRCA circuit in steer roping. After earning $11,015 in his inaugural season, Poppino was named the PRCA Resistol Rookie of the Year Award winner in the event. His earnings ranked him 38th on the national circuit.
Emily Miller, a senior at SWOSU this season, also earned special honors as she claimed the Women's Pro Rodeo Association (WPRA) Prairie Circuit Rookie of the Year award for barrel racing. Miller, who finished 14th among rookies nationally, earned $9,436 competing in the event while on the circuit.
"Emily, Brodie and Sage are exceptional athletes," SWOSU Rodeo Coach
Mike Visnieski said. "It's not an everyday event to be recognized as the 'Rookie of the Year' or to break world records in professional sports. For us to have three athletes achieve such a feat is a special moment for them and our program. I'm extremely proud of these three individuals."
