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Hollister High hosted its 9th Annual National FFA Buckaroo Rodeo for special needs students at the school’s Agricultural Barn on Oct. 23.
Participants tried out dummy roping, goat tail untying, stick horse races, bucking barrels, face painting, and an inflatable bucking bull at the event.
FFA teacher Grace Erickson said the rodeo is a treasured tradition that involves nearly 60 life skills students and 35 students in the FFA leadership programs.
“It’s just great,” Erickson said, “for all these different groups on campus to come together and share experiences and provide for a great day.”
One of the students who participated, Garrett Clark, said he was nervous at first but found he really wanted to try the activities out.
“I liked the bull riding,” Clark said. “This was a great idea, and it was a very exciting thing to do. I think it’s all wonderful. ”
Life Skills Teacher Brett Davis said this was his first time participating in the rodeo and that he became interested after seeing how excited his class was about the event.
“I was feeling the excitement,” he said, “and it turned out better than I could ever have expected. I think the teachers and students who put it up for us are outstanding. I’m overwhelmed in a positive way.”
Hollister Fire Department Captain Jimmy Holguin said that he wanted to participate because he enjoyed coming out, seeing everyone smile and just being part of it.
“It’s important because not every day these students get to do this type of activity,” Holguin said. “I think having this buckaroo rodeo is a great opportunity for them to be included.”
Instructional aide Diana Pina said she got involved because it gave her a chance to have fun and support her students..
“I honestly think it’s amazing.” Pina said. “It’s a great thing to do for the kids so that they can have fun out of school. It gives them something to enjoy once a year.”.
Kaden Rodriguez, one of the FFA student volunteers, said he has been volunteering ever since he was a freshman.
“I always thought it was a great tradition,” he said, “and I like giving back to the community in any way I can. I just like making kids feel like we’re out at the rodeo.”
Rodriguez said FFA does a great job in getting kids from all different classes to come out to help.
“Everyone does their job,” he said, “and everyone works together. The parents help put this together too by cooking the food, and the teachers do a great job keeping us together, keeping organized.”
Hollister High FFA’s 9th Annual Buckaroo Rodeo at the Agricultural Barn. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Ms. Natalia’s Class, “The Wild Ones.” Photo by Adam Bell. 
Gavin Rivera roping the bull. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Sophia Barroso on the mechanical bull. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Special Ed students getting a free lunch. Photo by Adam Bell.
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