Come Ride with UW Rodeo The Medical World Needs More Cowgirls

Published on Jan. 18, 2020

Athlete Spotlight: Kassi McPherson, UW Class of 2019 B.S. Physiology

Hometown: Rapid City, S.D. 

Events: Breakaway, Team Roping 

            If you have ever shoveled horse manure, it is unlikely that you have imagined the chore being shown on television. However, two ESPN reporters did just that. Sports Center ran a pre-game spotlight about UW Rodeo, and recent-alum Kassi McPherson represented the team with her two horses. 

            After the two metropolitan reporters rode her horses around the arena, they decided to add a little flavor to the scene. The two proceeded to scoop horse manure into a wheelbarrow for the cameras, in what was a humbling experience for the cowgirl.

            Kassi represented the sport of rodeo for the unforgettable pre-show, but during her undergrad at UW she truly lived the western lifestyle. 

            Kassi excelled in several areas while in Laramie through college rodeoing and her undergraduate studies. Her sportsmanship, academic success and roping abilities made her a valued member of UW Rodeo. 

            Kassi is a testament to the diversity of the program and the platform it provides for students to succeed in many areas of life in addition to the sport.

            This summer, Kassi will continue her studies in Texas, at Parker University, where she will pursue a Doctor of Chiropractic Degree. Kassi is passionate about helping others and hopes to make a positive impact in the medical world. 

            Until then, Kassi will spend her academic time off with her horses in Arizona where the climate offers year-round practice and competition for ropers. Some of Kassi’s fondest memories from her time at UW have been with her equine companions, who she attributes much of her undergraduate success to.

            “The horses I was mounted on for four years of college rodeo had hearts of gold that gave me their all every run and helped me grow as a competitor,” Kassi explains. 

            Kassi is a cowgirl that demonstrates the bountiful opportunities the University of Wyoming and the rodeo program offer. 

            “My professors were accommodating, knew me on a first name basis and took a personal investment into my success as a student. The UW Rodeo program paralleled my drive and commitment to excellence and it was a slam dunk when paired with Wyoming’s esteemed academics,” Kassi says.

            Join UW Rodeo this February for the annual Bucking Horse Gala, information on purchasing tickets can be found below.