By KATY HART, Student Reporter
She gives them encouragement, through the long hours as the rodeo team practices in the arena.
Micalah Preedy, a senior at Northwestern Oklahoma State University is not on her horse in the practice pen; she is now one of the assistant rodeo coaches.
It was the familiar small town atmosphere, along with an enthusiastic rodeo coach who welcomed Preedy to attend Northwestern where she now pursues a bachelor’s degree in sports psychology.
She grew up in the rural town of Meade, Kansas where her interest for rodeo began at an early age.
“I’ve been riding horses my whole life,” she reminisced. “One of my first memories is riding a horse with my daddy.”
Preedy is one of four student rodeo coaches who assist Stockton Graves and oversees the more than 100-member rodeo team at Northwestern.
She competed in barrel racing and break-a-way roping for four years on the same team she now coaches.
“It is very different not competing anymore and being on the other side of things,” Preedy said. “But I hope I can take what I’ve learned and help others in their career.”
After she obtains her bachelor’s degree, she plans to continue her education by receiving her master’s degree in adult education management and administration.
Preedy will continue to help with rodeo team practice. Even if it means coaching in the Oklahoma heat. She will be there.