From Roping to Resilience: Conner’s Journey at Boys Ranch Rodeo

 

Conner got his first taste of the Boys Ranch rodeo last year when he tried his hand in roping. He had been at Boys Ranch only two months at that point, but he didn’t hesitate to get right into it and be part of the action.

“I was watching all the guys practicing when I first got here, and I knew that was something I wanted to do,” Conner said. “My favorite event is team roping but I’m also excited for chute dogging and bronc riding. I really like the adrenaline rush of not knowing if I’m going to get hurt and doing it anyways. With this being my last year here, I want to make the most out of it.”

He said he enjoys rodeo events, but “it takes guts.”

“I get nervous, but I’m excited more than anything. You just can’t think about getting hurt,” Conner said.

Conner said he especially likes rodeo because embracing the thrill and danger has helped him find inner peace and take a break from his stress.

“Being in rodeo has helped a lot with my behavior issues and anger issues,” Conner said.

“When I’m practicing, my mind goes completely into my work and nowhere else, and it helps with my anxiety.”

Conner puts in time with the animals beyond the rodeo. He enjoys spending time at the barn exercising the horses, maintaining the stalls, and enjoying his time with his classmates.

“I’m really thankful I get a chance to work at the barn,” Conner said.

“I’ve learned a lot from my time here. It teaches you the value of a good work ethic and seeing the payoff of what you do. It’s also a good time being with the horses and the guys.”

Conner has also seen improvement in his schoolwork since coming to Boys Ranch. He said he’s able to focus on his education now that he has a stable lifestyle. After he graduates, he wants to go to college for agriculture science.

“I look up to all of my house parents,” Conner said.

“I also look up to my caseworkers, my work barn boss, my grandma, my uncle, and my parents. I have plenty of people to talk to and help me in life, and I have Boys Ranch to thank for that.”

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