“Keep entering.”
In the wise words of Bodie Mattson’s University of Wyoming rodeo coach—and four-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier—Seth Glause, sometimes you just have to keep entering.
Keep entering, keep learning, and keep going.
It was this mantra that led the 2024 NFR Open All-Around Cowboy to his second consecutive all-around title in the Pikes Peak foothills of Colorado Springs. A champion of the Badlands Circuit’s Tie-Down Roping and All-Around titles, Mattson accomplished a feat not many do—qualifying for the NFR Open in two events: team roping (heading) and tie-down roping.
Repeating 2024’s success in Colorado Springs, Mattson found himself in the winner’s circle once again, earning the 2025 NFR Open All-Around Cowboy title.
“It’s a huge honor to make it [to the NFR Open] in both events. It’s something not many get to do, and to make it in two events is a really tough feat. This win is something I’ll always cherish and look back on when I’m old,” reflected the Sturgis, South Dakota, native.
Mattson added, “The NFR Open is one of my favorite rodeos of the year. It’s really hard to qualify in two events. It’s a huge accomplishment to make it there, and to repeat my success as the All-Around Cowboy makes it even more special.”
The NFR Open, a culmination of the PRCA’s circuit system—composed of 12 geographic rodeo regions—brings together the best athletes from each circuit to compete for prestigious national titles. Only the top two cowboys and cowgirls in each event from each region qualify for the finals, making it one of the most elite stages in the sport. With a purse totaling $688,000, the event is a pivotal stop for athletes’ 2025 campaigns.
“There’s a lot of money and a lot of great rodeos in our circuit. The opportunities in the circuits and the NFR Open are ones that athletes don’t take lightly,” Mattson said.
Cherishing Each Win
Like many competitors, rodeo athletes are no strangers to the sport’s peaks and valleys. Highs as elevated as Pikes Peak’s 14,115-foot summit can quickly turn to lows in the valleys below when horses suffer injuries or a string of bad draws strikes.
In 2025, the first half of Mattson’s season didn’t unfold as planned—but he’s learned to appreciate each win, no matter the size.
“When things don’t go your way, you learn how bad you want it. I’ve spent a lot of time practicing and learning to overcome obstacles this year. I’ve learned how to cherish the small wins and savor every win a lot more.”
As a recent University of Wyoming graduate and CNFR qualifier, Mattson credits his growth mindset to his coach and mentor Seth Glause.
“My coach has really prepared me to rodeo professionally. He’s made it to the Finals four times and understands the highs and lows of rodeo. He has been a great supporter and mentor. College rodeo not only allowed me to get my education, but the experiences prepared me for the next chapter.”
Big wins like the NFR Open are now extra sweet for the 23-year-old standout. Armed with a master’s degree in business administration and two bachelor’s degrees in marketing and management, Mattson has his eyes set on a bright 2026 season.
“This year has been really trying for me. My coach has always reminded me to keep going and learn from these experiences. I’m looking forward to focusing on my circuit rodeos, qualifying for Minot [Badlands Circuit Finals] and Colorado Springs [NFR Open], and getting the next year going.”