Winning Formula: Coach Bubba Miller's Strategy for College Rodeo Recruiting

Discover how Coach Bubba Miller from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, has transformed rodeo recruitment, focusing on academic prowess and character, leading SHSU's team to national titles.

SHSU winning the CNFR Women's Team Title in 2017. Pictured from left to right: Tacy Kay Webb, KL Collmorgen (Spratt), Loni Yates (Lester), Sierra Spratt, and coach Bubba Miller. / Photo courtesy of SHSU Rodeo Team

Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, is home to one of the most sought-after college rodeo teams in the country, led by renowned coach Bubba Miller. With 15 years of coaching experience at SHSU, Miller has led his team to two National Championship titles, including the Men's Team Reserve National Title in 2011 and the Women's Team Title in 2018, alongside numerous top-10 team finishes. He has also coached five athletes to individual national titles, showcasing his expertise in recruiting college athletes.

To initiate his recruiting process, Miller focuses on three key attributes: excellence in the arena and in the classroom, as well as the potential to make a positive contribution to the university.

When it comes to arena success, Miller closely monitors major high school events such as the International Finals Youth Rodeo, Junior NFR, Texas High School State Finals, High School National Finals, and youth events held in Las Vegas during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. The SHSU rodeo team also attends these events annually to scout for potential talent. Miller also recognizes the importance of considering junior college students within college rodeo regions who may be interested in transferring to SHSU.

Academic performance is another crucial aspect that Miller considers. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining good grades, stating that "It doesn't matter how competitive they are in the arena. If they don't keep their grades up, they won't even be eligible to go to the rodeos." Miller values athletes who prioritize their education alongside their rodeo career, viewing them as invaluable assets to the team.

Miller also places great emphasis on the responsibility of college rodeo athletes to represent the university positively. He meticulously evaluates students' social media presence, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive and respectful online image while representing SHSU.

Miller conducts thorough background checks by consulting with previous coaches, rodeo secretaries, region presidents, and other individuals within the rodeo community before reaching out to potential recruits. He believes that this approach ensures comprehensive evaluation and coverage when extending invitations to join the SHSU team.

Reflecting on his coaching tenure, Miller observes a recurring theme: "The students that display a good work ethic in and out of the arena while in college are the ones we see being the most successful later on in life." He underscores the importance of outstanding character, asserting that it can propel individuals further in life than mere arena success. Miller's advice is clear: while rodeo skills are crucial for recruitment, combining them with high character ensures a solid foundation for success.