Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re brand new to rodeo, a returning member family, or just looking for more information, this page is designed to help answer the most common questions about the Vermont High School Rodeo Association. Here you’ll find clear, straightforward information about membership, events, points, rules, qualifications, and what to expect throughout the season.
We know high school rodeo can come with a learning curve, and things can change from year to year. If you don’t see your question answered here, in the state by laws, in the national rule book or need clarification, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help support our riders and families.
How qualification for High School and Junior High School National Finals works:
The top four contestants in each event are eligible to compete at the National Finals. If one or more of those qualifiers choose not to attend in a specific event, the opportunity will be offered to the next eligible contestant—up to the 8th-place finisher.
If you place in the top eight, there is a chance you may be invited to compete, so please be prepared and plan accordingly!
Info about finals can be found on the NHSRA website.
NHSRF and NJHFR Information – National High School Rodeo Association
What are membership requirements
Students must be in good standing; not ruled undesirable for misconduct at school. Students must be under 20 at the first of the National High School Rodeo year, and are or have been enrolled in the 9th, 10th, 11th or 12th grade the year just preceding the National Rodeo the contestant is entering as long as they (minimum requirements) have made passing grades in 4 subjects or if carrying less than 4 subjects student must have passing grades in all subjects, even if they have graduated in the middle of the year or have attended school on half-days, they will be eligible to compete in National High School Rodeo through the National High School Finals Rodeo if he/she has not participated for more than four (4) years. Each State/Province Association may adopt their state/province academic policy for grade or credit requirements. Any student attending schools which apply to high school credits is eligible if he/she meets all other requirements. A graduate of High School is not eligible for membership of NHSRA after the completion of the National High School Finals Rodeo immediately following their graduating from High School. Students must include a copy of their current high school grade and age certificate with their application for membership in a State/Provincial organization.
What is required to be a member in good standings
To be considered a member in good standing with the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA), a contestant must meet all of the following requirements:
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Active Membership
Have a current NHSRA (and state association) membership for the rodeo season. -
Dues & Fees Paid
All required membership fees, entry fees, fines, and other financial obligations must be paid in full. -
Rules Compliance
Follow all NHSRA rules, including event rules, eligibility requirements, and codes of conduct for contestants and parents. -
Academic Eligibility
Meet NHSRA academic standards, including submitting required grade checks and maintaining eligibility as outlined in the rule book. -
Sportsmanship & Conduct
Demonstrate good sportsmanship and behavior. Members may lose good-standing status due to disciplinary actions, rule violations, or conduct issues. -
Paperwork & Deadlines Met
Complete and submit all required forms (membership applications, waivers, medical forms, grade verification, etc.) by required deadlines.
Being a member in good standing is required to:
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Earn and retain points
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Receive year-end awards
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Qualify for and compete at state and national finals
If a member is unsure of their status, they should contact their state secretary to confirm eligibility and resolve any outstanding issues.
If you have been contacted multiple times about late or missing paperwork you will not be allowed to compete and will not retain points (this includes report cards, national applications, minor waivers and any state paperwork which is required).
Dress Code
Do contestants have to wear back numbers?
Yes. Contestants are required to wear their assigned back numbers at all times. Numbers must be clearly visible while competing, when on the rodeo grounds, during any rodeo-related functions, and while staying at the host motel.
Do shirts have to be tucked in?
Yes. All contestants must have their shirttails tucked in at the start of their competition.
Is western attire required?
Yes. Western attire, in accordance with the NHSRA dress code, is required for all NHSRA-approved activities. This includes rodeos, safety and instructional clinics, meetings, and any official rodeo functions. Full western attire is required to accept awards (see below for requirements)
What is considered full western attire?
Full western attire includes:
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A long-sleeve western shirt (button-up or snap-style)
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Western boots
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Western hat (felt or straw) or helmet where required for safety
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Jeans
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Belt and buckle
Clothing must be neat, clean, and appropriate for competition. Hats or helmets must be worn when competing, unless otherwise noted by event rules or safety requirements.
If contestants are warned about the dress code and continue to violate it they will be disqualified from the event that day.
Where can I find event rules?
You can find event rules in the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) Rule Book as well as in our VTHSRA State Bylaws
What are the annual membership costs?
For High School
$50.00 - National Dues
$15.00 - NHSRA Times subscription
$74.00 - Insurance
$50.00 VT State Dues
For Junior High students:
$45.00 - National Dues
$15.00 - NHSRA Times subscription
$35.00 - Insurance
$50.00 VT State Dues
****Starting in for the 2026-2027 season VTHSRA will have a mandatory requirement for members to bring in a $250 monetary sponsorship (families with multiple kids enrolled will be required to bring in a $125 sponsorship for each child enrolled) each season to be eligible for year-end awards.****
**All prices subject to change
What is VTHSRA's Year-End Tiebreaker policy
In the event of a tie in total points for any year-end award (including event champions, reserve champions, 3rd and 4th place, AQHA horse of the year or all-around awards), the following tie-breaker criteria will be applied in order until the tie is resolved:
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Highest Number of VTHSRA Events Attended that Season
The contestant who attended the most VTHSRA sanctioned events that season will receive the higher placing. -
Most Event Wins. If the tie remains, the contestant with the greatest number of first-place finishes in that discipline during the season will receive the higher placing.
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State Finals / Championship. If still tied the contestant who earned the most points at the State Finals or designated championship event will break the tie.
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Co-Champions/Placings. If the tie cannot be broken using the criteria above, the contestants will be declared Co-Champions/co placings. Duplicate awards will be presented when feasible or appropriate given the placing.
Placings outside of the top 4, will share that placing. For example if there is a tie for 5th there will be no tie breakers.
How can I join?
To join the NHSRA, you can begin by starting a profile on the NHSRA Membership website
You should also contact the VTHSRA state secretary at vthsra@gmail.com.
What Grade can Join?
The Junior High Division is 5th - 8th Grade The High School Division is 9th - 12th grade
When are Report Cards/ Proof of Academic Eligibility Required And what is the Requirement?
Must have made passing grades in at least 70% of the classes taken or meet the minimum proficiency requirement of the State/Province in which they are members.
Report cards Must be submitted with enrollment which will open up in July prior to any pointed events and are due again by April 30th.
When does the new season start?
VTHSRA season runs from Aug 1st- July 31st each year moving forward.
VTHSRA State Finals will be held before May 31st and National Finals for JR High-school is held in June of each year and High school will be held in July of each year.
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