Dickinson, N.D. — Dickinson State University announced Thursday that it has been officially approved to transition from the Great Plains Region to the Big Sky Region within the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, marking a significant milestone for the university's growing rodeo program.
The move, approved by NIRA leadership and regional directors, will take effect officially on July 1, 2026. The transition places DSU among programs located in Montana and parts of northern Wyoming, aligning the Blue Hawk Rodeo Team with some of the most competitive and tradition-rich programs in collegiate rodeo.
"This is a tremendous step forward for Dickinson State Rodeo," said DSU Rodeo Coach Joe Schmidt. "The Big Sky Region offers an incredibly competitive environment that will push our athletes to grow, develop, and perform at the highest level. We're excited for the challenges and opportunities this move brings."
The Big Sky Region is widely recognized for its depth of talent, strong rodeo culture, and high-level competition. DSU officials believe the transition will not only elevate the program's visibility but also strengthen recruiting efforts, enhance student-athlete development, and expand the university's footprint within the collegiate rodeo community.
"We are very excited about this move to the Big Sky Region," said
Pete Stanton, Director of Athletics at Dickinson State. "It will fit perfectly with our geographic landscape and recruiting footprint. This is a game changer for our rodeo program."
The timing of the move aligns closely with the final phase of DSU's $24 million Rodeo Arena and Agricultural Classroom renovation project. The 76,000-square-foot facility, featuring 800-seat spectator capacity, a VIP Club Level Box, and a warm-up/cool-down arena, will give DSU athletes a state-of-the-art training and competition environment as they enter the Big Sky Region.
University administrators noted that this realignment underscores DSU's commitment to expanding opportunities and enhancing the overall competitiveness and quality of life for its students-athletes.
"Our rodeo athletes deserve every opportunity to compete at a high level, and joining the Big Sky Region ensures just that we can maintain that high standard and help reduce their travel for competition," said DSU President Scott Molander. "We're proud of what this move represents for our students, our supporters, and the future of the Blue Hawk Rodeo Team."
DSU Rodeo will begin competing in the Big Sky Region in the upcoming season, with schedules and event details to be announced in the coming months.
"We are thrilled to have Dickinson State University join the Big Sky Region," said Del Nose, Head Rodeo Coach at Northwest College and Big Sky Faculty Director. "They will bring a competitive team and a growing team to our region which will be great for college rodeo in our area."
For more information about DSU Rodeo visit dsubluehawks.com and follow on social media.
Facebook: Dickinson State Rodeo
Instagram: @bluehawkrodeo
