Justin Strickland's appointment in July 2023 as Coalinga College's Rodeo Coach heralds a new era of rodeo excellence, firmly supported by his profound experience and passion for rodeo, horse training, and coaching.
During the Rodeo team's 21-22 season, Strickland generously volunteered his time to the Coalinga College rodeo team before his outstanding capabilities and devotion to the team saw him promoted to assistant coach. His trajectory of success continued as he assumed the role of interim head coach for the 22-23 season, achieving remarkable results that significantly contributed to the team's outstanding performance, including student-athlete Makayla Farkas' extraordinary victory in breakaway roping at the prestigious College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) in 2023.
This year, Stickland's mentorship has again led Coalinga College student-athletes to the national championship in Casper, Wyoming: bull rider Brayden Liberio and steer wrestler Owen Redfeairn. Liberio is the current West Coast Region Bull Riding Champion. This season, Liberio has won multiple rodoes, including Bakersfield College, West Hills College, Poly Royal at Cal Poly, and the UNLV Regional Finals.
Redfeairn, who placed third in the West Coast Region for Steer Wrestling has clinched wins at Feather River College and the Bakersfield College Rodeo rodeos. These athletes reflect the high caliber of talent that the Coalinga College rodeo program continues to cultivate under its new leadership.
Liberio and Redfeairn proudly represented Coalinga College at Nationals, showcasing their talent and determination, despite not advancing to the championship round. In the fall, both will transfer to four-year colleges.
Liberio will attend Fresno State, and Redfeairn will attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Both colleges are in the NIRA West Coast Region, the same region Coalinga College competes in.
"Stepping into the head coach role at Coalinga College marks a moment of pride and excitement for me," remarks Strickland. "Leading and mentoring such a dedicated group of student-athletes is a privilege. We aim to build on our historical successes and push the boundaries of what we can achieve in the national rodeo arena."
"Justin Strickland brings unparalleled expertise and enthusiasm to our rodeo program," says Coalinga College's President, Dr. Carla Tweed. “His background in rodeo and coaching and a genuine passion for student and athlete development makes him the ideal leader for our team. We're excited about the future of our rodeo team under his stewardship."
With Justin Strickland at the helm and the continuous emergence of talented athletes like Farkas, Liberio, and Redfeairn, Coalinga College's rodeo team is not just poised but eagerly anticipated for extraordinary success. The college community is excited for the forthcoming rodeo season and confident in the leadership and potential that defines their vibrant rodeo program.
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