The 76th Annual Skyline Stampede marks the completion of Whitney Simmons Lee’s first full year as Head Coach of the CSU Rodeo Team.
Raised on a commercial cattle ranch in Sheridan, Wyoming, Whitney’s foundation was built on early mornings, long days, and a deep respect for livestock and land. Her background in rodeo and competitive hockey shaped the discipline, resilience, and team-first mentality that now define her coaching style. Long before stepping into a formal coaching role, she was immersed in horsemanship, animal husbandry, and the responsibility that comes with managing livestock and competing at a high level.
In her first year, the program has seen renewed structure and forward momentum. The return of the Rodeo Gala reestablished an important tradition, clear operating systems within the university have strengthened internal organization, and the groundwork is being laid to build a dedicated booster club to support the team’s long-term success.
Competitive growth has followed that foundation. CSU athletes have won averages, long goes, and short goes across multiple events. A strong emphasis on horsemanship has translated into cleaner shots in the roping pen and faster times in the barrel racing. Whitney has also incorporated a focus on proper motion and functional body mechanics, helping athletes compete with greater efficiency and longevity in their events.
She believes growth comes through pressure, humility, and a willingness to be sharpened by those around you. Her vision is to develop disciplined competitors, capable leaders, and stewards of the western industry who represent CSU with integrity both in and out of the arena.
“I want people building their character every day by challenging themselves and pushing beyond their comfort zones. That’s how you become your best, and that’s how you thrive in the sport of rodeo.”
Whitney is grateful for the opportunity to lead this program while raising her two young daughters in an environment grounded in grit, respect, and western heritage. As the program’s first female head coach, Lee is honored to lead a team with deep roots while continuing to build a competitive, hard-working, and character-driven future. She continues to compete in roping and barrel racing through the WPRA, train performance horses, and mentor the next generation of horsemen and women.
