MPCC men's rodeo team ranks No. 1 in nation through fall
NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The Mid-Plains Community College (MPCC) Men's Rodeo Team has ended their fall season on top of the national leaderboard, solidifying their position as the team to beat with a commanding 4,857 points—nearly 1,000 points ahead of second-place Bismarck State College. This exceptional performance has put MPCC in the spotlight within the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, showcasing talent that has rivaled even well-established programs.
“We just focus on doing our job each week,” said head coach Aukai Kaai, praising his athletes’ consistency and skill across events. Six of the team members are ranked among the top 25 all-around cowboys nationwide, led by Kahiwa Augustiro and Eli Higa, the nation’s top team roping pair. Their collective achievements have contributed nearly 40% of the team’s total points.
Other standout performers include Jackson Lunn, who has won every fall rodeo in bareback riding, and Trace Scarlavai, who holds the top national spot in bull riding. Freshman Koy McAllister has also made waves, placing 10th in the all-around standings. Additional top-25 placements include Cinch Painter, Ridge Ward, and Jace Richter.
The MPCC women’s rodeo team currently ranks 25th nationally, rounding out a strong season for the college. Both teams will return to competition in the spring, with hopes of qualifying multiple athletes for the College National Finals Rodeo.