The New Mexico State University rodeo team wrapped up the spring season with several wins April 26-28 during the university's intercollegiate rodeo. The event was also named "Best Rodeo of the Year" for the ninth time in a row.

"I couldn't be any more proud of my team this season," said Jim Brown, NMSU rodeo coach. "This was a great end to our season but now we have to prepare for finals."

During the three-day rodeo, the men's team held on to their top spot in the region, the women's team placed No. 4.

Over the weekend Cooper DeWitt took home first and third place in saddle bronc riding. Trenton Montero and Paeden Underwood both took the top spots in bareback riding.

In tie-down roping Cody Mirabal took home second place during the entire rodeo and Bruce Runyan earned first place. Victor Ugalde and Rusty VanSoelen also earned first place in team roping header.

Other wins over the weekend for the men include Ky Barry, first place, Ethan Shelley and Tyke Kipp, third place, in steer wrestling; Matthew Silva, first place, and Cody Runyan, second place, in team roping heeler; Clancy Phillps, third place, Bo Simpson and Kurtis Barry, fourth place, in tie-down roping; and John Fowler, third place, in bull riding.

The women also did well over the weekend. Nicole Sweazea took home second place in goat tying and placed No. 3 in women's all around. Meghan Johnson took home first and second place in barrel racing.

Olivia Train earned third place during the entire rodeo in breakaway roping. Kendra Stineman and Brandi Pfeifer both took home third place in goat tying.

The rodeo team will send 14 students to the College National Finals Rodeo, June 9-15 in Casper, Wyo.