OSU Rodeo coaches Joby Bush and Cody Hollingsworth stand with CNFR qualifiers Morgan Bagnell and Carli Hawkins after the final rodeo of the spring season.

OSU Rodeo sends two to College National Finals Rodeo

Thursday, June 12, 2025

Media Contact: Sophia Fahleson | Digital Communications Specialist | 405-744-7063 | sophia.fahleson@okstate.edu

Two members of the Oklahoma State University Rodeo Team are preparing for the biggest performance of the season. Carli Hawkins and Morgan Bagnell are among the top collegiate rodeo athletes competing at the 2025 College National Finals Rodeo.

The CNFR, slated for June 15-21 in Casper, Wyoming, culminates the collegiate rodeo season. The National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association’s 11 regions will be represented.

The OSU Rodeo Program is housed in the Ferguson College of Agriculture, and team members pursue a variety of degrees offered university-wide.

Hawkins, a recent applied exercise science graduate, finished her senior year as the NIRA Central Plains Region reserve champion breakaway roper. She will represent OSU Rodeo in breakaway roping during her first CNFR appearance.

Hawkins said she is excited to represent the OSU Cowboys nationally.

“I can’t wait to experience the CNFR and cheer on my fellow teammate and the friends I’ve made throughout the NIRA,” she said.

Bagnell, a biology major, concluded her freshman season as the Central Plains Region champion barrel racer. This will also mark her first CNFR appearance as she represents OSU Rodeo in barrel racing.

OSU Rodeo has provided Bagnell with a sense of community and friendship, she said. Bagnell is confident in her skills and her horses as they prepare to compete.

“I’m incredibly proud to be representing OSU Rodeo at the CNFR this year and to have the opportunity to compete on such a grand stage,” Bagnell said. “My experience has been amazing, and I’m excited to see what my horses and I accomplish in Casper.”

Cody Hollingsworth, who has served as OSU Rodeo head coach for 13 years, has coached many rodeo athletes to the CNFR.

“I’m very proud of the way Carli and Morgan have competed all year,” Hollingsworth said. “I believe they are prepared and have set themselves up to be very successful at CNFR.”