Sul Ross State Universitys esteemed Rodeo Coach, C.J. Aragon, is set to take his place among the legends of the sport as he is inducted into the Idaho Rodeo Hall of Fame this October. A proud native of Idaho, Aragon has made significant contributions to rodeo, both as an athlete and as a coach since he joined Sul Ross State University (SRSU) in the fall of 2018.

When Aragon arrived at SRSU, the rodeo team comprised a modest seven athletes. Under his leadership, the team's roster has expanded to more than 50 dedicated rodeo competitors, showcasing his remarkable coaching abilities and passion for the sport.

Aragons journey in rodeo began at a young age; he won his first buckle at a dummy roping competition in 1984 when he was just 10 years old. This achievement marked the beginning of a long and fruitful career in rodeo that began with the Southern Idaho Junior Rodeo Association. As a graduate of Kamiah High School in Kamiah, Idaho, in 1993, Aragon quickly established himself as a top competitor. He qualified for the state finals in Team Roping, Tie-Down Roping, and Steer Wrestling four times each. His impressive track record includes four Team Roping District Championships and three Steer Wrestling District Championships, highlighting his versatility and skill in multiple rodeo events.

During his senior year, Aragon achieved the prestigious title of State Champion Team Roper and was recognized as the Rookie of the Year by the Idaho Cowboys Association in both Team Roping and Steer Wrestling, showcasing his early promise in the sport. His achievements continued as he made history as a member of the inaugural National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) team at Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho. Aragon qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) three times and earned the title of Reserve National Champion Steer Wrestler in 1998, further cementing his reputation within the rodeo community.

Academically, Aragon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from New Mexico State University, which he received in 1998, and a Master of Coaching Education from Ohio University, awarded in 2018. His educational background complements his practical experience, equipping him with the necessary skills to mentor aspiring rodeo athletes.

As a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), Aragon has demonstrated considerable talent and dedication, qualifying for the Turquoise Circuit Finals Rodeo 15 times and also earning a spot in the Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo. His prowess extended beyond national borders as he was part of the USA National Team, competing internationally between 2006 and 2007.

Aragon's coaching career began in earnest at Mesalands Community College in New Mexico in 2007, where he quickly garnered recognition, being named the National Coach of the Year in 2010 and the NIRA Grand Canyon Region Coach of the Year for multiple consecutive years between 2007 and 2011. Following that successful tenure, he moved to Odessa College, where he coached from 2013 to 2018. Here, he was honored as the Southwest Regional Coach of the Year and was recognized three times as the Western Junior College Athletic Conference Coach of the Year.

Throughout his career, Aragon has coached over 40 talented students from Idaho, including notable figures such as Tristen Hutchings, a two-time CNFR Bullriding Champion and three-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier, alongside other talented athletes like Timmi Hutchings, Layne Ward, J2 Bridges, Ty Nuffer, and Shelby Logan.

Beyond his coaching role, Aragon has been actively involved in the governance of rodeo. He served as the CNFR Time Event Chute Boss from 2008 to 2021 and was Chairman of the NIRA Rules Committee from 2008 to 2013. Currently, he holds the position of CNFR Arena Director and serves on the NIRA Board of Directors, influencing the sport at a high level.

For those interested in learning more about C.J. Aragon or Sul Ross State University's rodeo program, further information can be obtained by emailing rodeo@sulross.edu or visiting