Hereford, Texas Celebrates Local Rodeo Champion’s Graduation
Thursday turned out to be a momentous occasion in Hereford, Texas as the spirited Madalyn Richards graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Agricultural Communications. The atmosphere at Reed Arena was electrifying, especially considering Richards didn’t just walk across the stage to receive her diploma; she crossed it after achieving significant accolades in the world of rodeo. Fresh off her wins in breakaway roping and the coveted all-around title at the 2024 College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR), Richards was on a high of excitement, accomplishment, and sentimental reflection.
“I’m pretty excited,” she told reporters prior to the ceremony. “Graduating is bittersweet for sure. Texas A&M has been an incredible place to learn and grow—both in academics and rodeo.” As a proud native of Hereford, sandwiched between the vast Texas plains and the thriving rodeo scene, Richards has made her mark not just as a student but also as a pivotal member of the Texas Aggie rodeo team.
A Bright Future Ahead
But don’t think for a moment that Richards plans on trekking far from campus. She’s already gearing up for her next challenge: a master’s program in Agricultural Economics starting in January. She’ll be diving deep into Ag Policy under the guidance of esteemed faculty members, including Joe Outlaw, co-director of the Agricultural Food and Policy Center. And yes, she won’t be hanging up her spurs anytime soon! Richards will also continue her rodeo pursuits, looking to compete in major events like Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio this spring.
“Professional rodeo has been a huge part of my college life, and it will continue to be a part of my journey. The rodeo will always be there, but I’m also focused on building my career,” Richards shared. Her commitment to both her studies and her passion for rodeo has seen her rise through the ranks, helping lead her team to three successive Southern Regional Championships and a third-place finish at the CNFR last June.
Legacy and Motivation
Choosing Texas A&M was not merely about having an excellent rodeo team; it was also about family tradition, as three generations of Richards have proudly donned the maroon and white. “I wanted a place that offered a top-notch education while being rooted in Texas,” she explained. “And let’s be real, this rodeo program has seen tremendous growth!”
Her coach, Al Wagner, who has seen countless talented athletes pass through the program, could not speak highly enough of Richards’ tenacity. “She is, in all sincerity, one of the best athletes I’ve ever coached. Her determination is simply inspiring,” Wagner stated.
This year, Richards will share the spotlight with someone special: her younger sister, Lucy, who just started her own journey at Texas A&M. On graduation day, Madalyn had insightful advice for future rodeo star hopefuls and incoming students alike: “Whatever you do, give it your all. You’ll be amazed at the outcomes,” she said, with an encouraging smile.
A Time-Honored Ritual
Richards has a nifty pre-competition ritual that has served her well over the years. She writes down her goals as if they’ve already come true, a trick she picked up from the book “With Winning in Mind” which emphasizes visualization techniques. “I always keep that little note card close by; it’s all about believing you can do it,” she said. As graduation day approached, she jested about the potential pitfalls of her ceremony attire: “I just hope I remember to stay on my feet and not trip while crossing the stage in these heels!”
When she finally walked across the stage at Reed Arena to receive her diploma, she carried the unique grace of a seasoned competitor, ready to embrace her next chapter, both in agricultural communications and the world of rodeo. Each accolade and each step serves as a testament to her dedication—not just to the sport she loves, but also to her education. As Richards embarks on this new adventure, the excitement in Hereford is palpable, not just for the remarkable student and athlete Madalyn Richards is, but for the inspiring journey that lies ahead.
