The Mental Game: Kyler Modglin’s Journey Back to Rodeo
Mental health challenges are often invisible in Western sports. Bareback rider Kyler Modglin shares how injuries, fear, and uncertainty nearly ended his rodeo career—and how support from Western Sports Foundation helped him begin rebuilding his confidence and mental resilience.
Why Mental Resilience Matters in Western Sports
Mental resilience plays a critical role in the long-term success of Western athletes. From managing competition pressure to navigating life beyond the arena, mental performance support helps athletes build sustainable careers.
Why Long-Term Support Matters
In Western sports, lasting success is built on preparation, discipline, and the ability to play the long game. Athlete support is no different. At WSF, we believe consistent mental health resources and year-round care are essential to helping athletes protect their well-being and navigate life beyond competition.
What Support Really Looks Like for Western Sports Athletes
Western sports celebrate toughness—but real sustainability takes more than pushing through the next ride. Learn more about what meaningful, long-term support actually looks like, from mental and brain health resources to guidance that helps athletes navigate transitions beyond competition. Because true support isn’t a moment—it’s a commitment that lasts.
Life’s a Team Sport: Bear Pascoe on Mindset and Purpose
Bear Pascoe chased a childhood dream all the way to a Super Bowl—and back into the Western world. Along the way, he learned that success isn’t built on talent alone, but on mindset, purpose, and the people who help you stay the course. His story is a powerful reminder that life—and sport—is a team effort.
The Long Game: TJ Gray on Recovery and Resilience
After a standout performance at the 2025 National Finals Rodeo, bull rider TJ Gray made the intentional decision to pause and prioritize recovery. Now, TJ shares his reflections on choosing long-term health over short-term pressure, navigating identity beyond performance, and building resilience in a sport defined by grit.
Trey Holston: Resilience, Recovery, and Hard-Won victories
After two back-to-back injuries temporarily sidelined his career, professional bull rider Trey Holston found a renewed appreciation for the sport he loves.
Champions Crowned: Celebrating the 2025 PRCA World & NFR Aggregate Champions
Meet the 2025 PRCA World and NFR Aggregate Champions and see how Western Sports Foundation supported rodeo athletes during NFR week in Las Vegas.
Will Lummus: Staying Focused, Giving Back, and Refusing to Back Off
From battling injury to mentoring the next generation, Will Lummus shares the mindset that keeps him grounded—and on top of the standings—heading into the NFR.
WSF Makes an Impact During the PBR Teams Championship Weekend
Western Sports Foundation returned to Las Vegas during the 2025 PBR Teams Championship for a weekend of purpose, connection, and giving. From Peyton’s Project Runway to the Outlaw Partners Golf Tournament, every event celebrated the heart of the Western sports community.
WSF Returns to Las Vegas for PBR Team Finals
The PBR Teams Championship is one of the most action-packed weekends of the year—and Western Sports Foundation will be right in the middle of the it all. From runway lights to fairway greens, WSF is bringing some incredible events to Las Vegas, all in support of rodeo athletes and their families.
Lisa Lockhart: Horses, Hard Work, and Heart
From a horse-crazy little girl in South Dakota to one of the most successful barrel racers in professional rodeo, Lisa Lockhart has built her life around faith, family, and horses. In this exclusive feature, the 19-time NFR qualifier shares how she balances competition, motherhood, and gratitude for the Western way of life.
2025 Ted Weise Memorial Award Recipient: Cody Custer
From a five-year-old boy riding his first calf to winning the 1992 PRCA World Championship, Cody Custer’s story is one of grit, humility, and faith. Now, as the 2025 Ted Weise Memorial Award honoree, Custer reflects on his journey and the values that continue to shape his legacy.
Where God, Family, and Rodeo Meet
Meet Positive Times Project nominee Landon Darling through a heart warming submitted by Judy Darling. Landon embodies the spirit of the rodeo—a blend of tradition, skill, and sheer determination. His path to team roping is a testament to the intertwining forces of faith, family, and fate.
FAQ: How Western Sports Foundation Supports Rodeo Athletes
Discover how Western Sports Foundation supports rodeo and western sports athletes with health, wellness, and career resources.
Exploring the heritage of Pendleton Whisky with Tia Bledsoe
Immerse yourself in the world of Pendleton Whisky through the eyes of its Brand Heritage Director, Tia Bledsoe. Tia’s passion for Western tradition and commitment to authenticity have helped shape the legacy of this iconic brand.
Shelby Rasmussen: Changing the Game for College Rodeo
There’s a steady movement to bring college rodeo to the next level, while still honoring a steadfast commitment to tradition, and Shelby Rasmussen is at the forefront of that movement through her work with Learfield College Rodeo.
From the Dance Floor to the Rodeo: Miranda Reed Ropes Her Dreams
Not every rodeo journey looks the same. For Miranda Reed, current Miss Rodeo Sandhills and 2025 Dancin’ with the Rodeo Stars co-champion, her path is one of passion, determination, and the power of dreams—and it’s sure to inspire anyone she meets!
A New Chapter: Todd Bowman's Journey from Bullfighting to Silverwork
When bullfighter Todd Bowman faced injury that threatened his life and career, he lost his identity, his passion, and his livelihood. Now, he’s living out new dreams as a successful business owner and reining horse enthusiast.
A message from the WSF Board of Directors
After 12 years of dedicated service—and the last four as Executive Director—Aubrey O’Quin will be stepping down from her role to focus on her health and family.