Whit Peterson has been named Eastern Wyoming College’s new head rodeo coach.
“I’m excited to lead the Lancer rodeo team and build upon a great legacy,” Peterson said. “I want to have a well-rounded program which I think we have right now.” Peterson has a Bachelor of Science in Education from Oklahoma Panhandle State University in Goodwell, Oklahoma. He attended college on a rodeo scholarship and completed in both rough stock and timed events.
“After graduating college, I made the decision to work on a ranch in southeast Wyoming with my dad,” Peterson said. “Ranching allowed me to continue my love for rodeo. I competed in several associations across the United States qualifying for numerous finals over the years.”
Peterson will have about 15 returning cowboys and cowgirls, he said. There is also a strong group of new recruits and he is continuing to recruit for the upcoming season.
Before taking the EWC coaching job Peterson taught Agriculture Education at Lingle-Ft. Laramie and Torrington schools. He also served as the assistant FFA advisor.
Teaching, he said, has given him the opportunity to develop positive relationship with students and help mentor them to deeper levels of understanding and knowledge in the world of agriculture.
“It’s been a great opportunity to work for Lingle-Ft. Laramie and Torrington schools,” Peterson said. “I really enjoyed it and everyone there was great to work with.”
Taking the position at EWC is somewhat of a coming home for Peterson. “I grew up in the halls of EWC,” he said. His mother, Patti Sue Peterson, was a Vet Tech instructor at EWC for over 30 years.
“She instilled the importance of education in me throughout my life, it is one I carry into my professional career,” he said.
At a young age, Peterson developed a “strong appreciation and love for rodeo,” he said. “With the support of my parents and mentors, rodeo taught me that hard work and dedication will lead to success.” Success he looks forward to experiencing with the members of the Lancer rodeo team.
The team will start practicing as soon as classes start in late August with the team’s first rodeo taking place toward the middle to end of September.
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