MPCC Rodeo Team members earn NLD scholarships

Two Mid-Plains Community College Rodeo Team members are the recipients of $800 educational scholarships from NEBRASKAland Days. The students are DJ Martian, of Bowman, N.D., and Madison McGee, of Deloraine, Manitoba, Canada.

Martian and McGee were recognized Friday night at the Wild West Arena in North Platte during the evening performance of the 2023 MPCC Stampede.

“I am extremely proud of each of these kid’s hard work and effort both in the arena and in the classroom,” said Aukai Kaai, MPCC Rodeo Team roughstock coach. “They stepped up and helped take care of practice stock when needed and help during practice without asking. They are true team leaders in and out of the arena.”

The scholarships were awarded based on the students’ performance in the arena and classroom as well as their leadership skills, volunteerism and promotion of the team.

Funding for the scholarships came from entry fees to the annual NLD Cowboy Kickball Competition in June.

Martian is a saddle bronc rider and team roper. He is studying entrepreneurship at Mid-Plains.

McGee competes in breakaway roping, team roping and barrel racing for MPCC. She is a sophomore studying Agribusiness and Business Administration.