As the University of Nebraska-Lincoln prepares to host the 67th Annual Cornhusker College Rodeo, head coach Wyatt Clark says the program is building momentum both inside and outside the arena.
Clark, who comes from a multigenerational rodeo family, said the program’s foundation is rooted in hard work and a lifelong connection to the sport.
“Rodeo was instilled in my blood from a young age,” Clark said. “The hard work we put into it growing up, repetitive runs, late nights and long trips with family, those are things I’ll never forget.”
Now leading the Nebraska program, Clark is blending that tradition with modern approaches to athlete development.
One of the biggest changes he has seen in recent years is the increased emphasis on strength and conditioning. At Nebraska, that training is now a structured part of the program, designed to help athletes handle the physical demands of a long season.
“The physical demands have always been there and always will be,” Clark said. “We’re doing our part here at UNL to give our student-athletes a great format to improve themselves outside of the arena.”
That development extends beyond workouts. Nebraska is also investing in its future with a new rodeo and equine sports complex, aimed at giving athletes more consistent and accessible practice opportunities.
Clark said repetition is critical in a sport where performances are often measured in seconds.
“This facility is going to give us the atmosphere and a safe place to provide repetition and practice,” he said.
When it comes to recruiting and developing athletes, Clark said one trait consistently separates successful competitors.
“I try to look and see the spark of passion for the students,” he said. “That spark means a lot… keeping that spark lit is very important.”
As Nebraska gets set to host its home rodeo, Clark said the opportunity to compete in front of a home crowd is special for his team.
“Getting to represent the state of Nebraska and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as a Cornhusker — there’s a lot of proud history behind the program,” he said.
The Cornhusker College Rodeo runs May 1–2 at the Sandhills Global Event Center in Lincoln, featuring top college athletes from across the region competing for a spot at the College National Finals Rodeo.
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Coverage of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Rodeo Program is supported by the UNL Rodeo Program and their supporter, BLU SOL Ranch and Feed — Premium alfalfa cubes.
