Sul Ross State University Rodeo Coach C.J. Aragon is set to make history this October as he is officially inducted into the Idaho Rodeo Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor recognizes his incredible contributions to the sport and his dedication to nurturing young talent in rodeo.

Originally hailing from Idaho, Aragon joined the Sul Ross State University (SRSU) rodeo program in the fall of 2018. His arrival marked a significant turning point for the team, which had only seven rodeo athletes at that time. Under his leadership, the program has expanded exponentially, boasting over 50 athletes today, a testament to his coaching prowess and ability to inspire the next generation of rodeo stars.

Aragons journey in rodeo began at a remarkably young age. At just 10 years old, he secured his first buckle in a dummy roping contest in 1984 while participating in the Southern Idaho Junior Rodeo Association. His passion for rodeo only grew from there, and after graduating from Kamiah High School in 1993, he made his mark in various rodeo disciplines. Throughout his high school career, Aragon qualified for the state finals an impressive four times in Team Roping, Tie-Down Roping, and Steer Wrestling. Notably, he clinched the Team Roping District Championship four times and the Steer Wrestling District Championship three times.

During his senior year, he achieved the title of State Champion Team Roper and garnered acclaim as the Idaho Cowboys Association Rookie of the Year in both Team Roping and Steer Wrestling, qualifying for the finals multiple times in each event. His early achievements set the stage for a successful rodeo career that continued into college.

Aragon was a key member of the inaugural National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) team at Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho. His college rodeo career was highlighted by three qualifications for the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) and a notable finish as the 1998 Reserve National Champion Steer Wrestler.

After completing his undergraduate studies with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from New Mexico State University in 1998, Aragon pursued further education, obtaining a Master's degree in Coaching Education from Ohio University in 2018. His commitment to education and coaching has been evident throughout his career.

As a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), Aragon has qualified for the Turquoise Circuit Finals Rodeo 15 times and even reached the Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo. His prowess was recognized on an international scale when he served as a member of the USA National Team, competing abroad from 2006 to 2007.

Aragons coaching career began in earnest at Mesalands Community College in New Mexico in 2007. His dedication and success in developing young rodeo athletes earned him the title of National Coach of the Year in 2010, as well as the NIRA Grand Canyon Region Coach of the Year from 2007 to 2011. He then transitioned to Odessa College, where he coached from 2013 to 2018, earning recognition as the Southwest Regional Coach of the Year and being named the three-time Western Junior College Athletic Conference Coach of the Year.

Throughout his coaching career, Aragon has mentored over 40 student-athletes from Idaho, many of whom have achieved significant success. Notable former students include Tristen Hutchings, a two-time CNFR Bullriding Champion, and Timmi Hutchings, along with fellow athletes Layne Ward, J2 Bridges, Ty Nuffer, and Shelby Logan.

In addition to his coaching achievements, Aragon has played a pivotal role in the CNFR as the Time Event Chute Boss from 2008 to 2021. He also served as the Chairman of the NIRA Rules Committee from 2008 to 2013 and currently holds the position of CNFR Arena Director while being an active member of the NIRA Board of Directors.

Aragons induction into the Idaho Rodeo Hall of Fame is not just a personal achievement; it is a celebration of the impact he has had on rodeo in Idaho and beyond. His journey from a young competitor to a respected coach serves as inspiration for many aspiring rodeo athletes.

For more information about Aragon or the rodeo programs at Sul Ross State University, interested parties can reach out via email at rodeo@sulross.edu or visit