National High School Rodeo In Search Of Volunteers For Finals In Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  - The Illinois Department of Agriculture Bureau of Non-Fair Events is beginning its search for volunteers for this years' National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) Finals, which will be held on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield July 22-28.  About 500 volunteers will be needed to staff the event.

"Nearly 400 people from across the state volunteered their time to help make the 2006 NHSRA Finals a success," Rodeo Volunteer Coordinator Pati Kohlbecker said. "This year, we're expecting to welcome many of our volunteers back, but could use about 100 additional people to help staff the event."

Volunteers are needed to staff workstations, including contestant registration, horse stabling, message center, trade show, hospitality, ticket taking, parking and security.  Some committees begin their work the week prior to the rodeo, which must be staffed 24 hours a day, and other committees will work during the event with both morning and evening shifts. 

The National High School Rodeo Association was created to give high school students the opportunity to compete in a unique and challenging sport. Although not recognized by high school athletics, the NHSRA offers a rodeo program that sets high school rodeo apart from other varsity sports. Athletes compete on a scale comparable to collegiate and professional rodeo competitors. NHSFR contestants compete in a dozen events, including Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing and Team Roping.

Those interested in volunteering for the event should contact Pati Kohlbecker at (217) 782-0772 or The State Fair Office (217) 782-0770.