Rodeo Legend Leon Coffee to Retire After Final Performance at Houston Rodeo

The legendary rodeo clown Leon Coffee will retire after the Houston Rodeo final round on Sunday.

Kade Kistner | Mar 15, 2024

Shelby Pipken

Leon Coffee has become a legend in the rodeo community after a historical career that has spanned more than 50 years.

It's an incredible achievement, as for over two generations, Coffee has been the go-to rodeo clown for rodeo events, from the largest to the smallest local performances.

That career, which began in 1973, has led to his induction into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame, one of the greatest honors a cowboy in the Western sports profession can obtain.

That same career is coming to an end on Sunday following the final performance of the Houston Rodeo, according to Fox 26.

Coffee, a Blanco, Texas native, a small town not far from San Antonio and Austin, grew up a cowboy. He was raised as a fourth-generation cowboy who broke horses with his grandfather, rode bulls, and succeeded in what was, at the time, a dominantly white community.

He has spoken many times about the challenges he faced growing up. But he built a career he says he wouldn't trade for a million dollars.

The Crockett High School graduate's accolades are numerous, and the void he is leaving is vast—so much so that it may never be filled.

Coffee's achievements did not just come on the rodeo dirt. He played Hollywood roles in movies such as '8 Seconds,' and 'My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys.' The former is one of the most popular rodeo movies ever made as it has a take on the tragedy bull rider Lane Frost experienced as he lost his life in Cheyenne after a ride in 1989.

When Coffee wasn't in a barrel, the legendary clown was giving back to his community. He is well known for working with local children's hospitals across the country as he takes on the rodeo trail.

And finally, Coffee was a proud American who served his country for three years in the United States Army after graduating high school.

Mr. Coffee, thank you for everything these past 50-plus years to this great community, industry and lifestyle.

Published Mar 15, 2024

KADE KISTNER

Kade Kistner—a driving force in sports journalism. Holding the helm as publisher for Sports Illustrated's acclaimed feature, Rodeo Daily, Kade is a seasoned alumnus of Tulane University. His academic journey culminated in a 2017 graduation, marked by a degree in Latin American Studies and a minor in Spanish. Following his academic pursuits, Kade embarked on a distinctive path. He answered the call of duty, joining the ranks of the United States Navy. Guided by his aspirations, he honed his skills at Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Florida, ultimately achieving the esteemed position of Naval Aviator. His base of operations was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida—a testament to his dedication and service. Amidst his academic achievements and military commitment, Kade found himself drawn to the world of sports coverage. His byline graced the pages of prestigious platforms such as USA Today, SB Nation, and the revered Sports Illustrated. Within these domains, he tackled the intricate worlds of MLB and NFL, unfurling their stories with a discerning eye. From capturing the essence of the New Orleans Saints to unraveling the narratives of the Texas Rangers, Kade's journalistic prowess shone through. His writing translated the raw data of the sports world into compelling narratives that resonated with readers far and wide. With the turning of seasons, Kade embraced new horizons. He introduced Inside the Phillies, Inside the Astros, and Inside the Cubs—an endeavor that unveiled the inner workings of these iconic teams. Kade's knack for storytelling transformed team dynamics and player stories into engaging content for avid fans. Engage with Kade on Twitter, where his handle, @KadeKistner, serves as an open invitation to join the conversation. For inquiries or correspondence, he can be reached at kwkistner@gmail.com. Kade Kistner's journey through the multifaceted world of sports and journalism continues to unfold, leaving an indelible mark along the way.