Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I just show up at the school and pay the tuition there.
A. If you just show up you would be required to pay an additional $75.00 on top of what the regular tuition is (assuming that we have spaces open or that there are no shows to leave a spot available). The reason for the Fee is that without advance enrollment we can not plan livestock, staff, etc. The advance deposits give us an idea of the number of students and the program needs for that session.
Q. How do you determine which hand to ride with?
A. The "Old School" theory is that if you are right handed (meaning right hand dominate) you ride left and, of course, if you are left handed you'd right right. It's a nice theory but it simply isn't supported by actual history.
When you look at the sport you'll see it's pretty split between successful athletes in each event (BB, SB, and BR). In fact there an amazing pattern of brother teams (like my own) where one brother rides right and the other left (with both being right hand dominate) and both having great pro careers.
My suggestion is to just walk a plank or rail holding up one hand and then the other. Determine which way you feel you have the most balance and go with that.
Choose one and stay with it. It's never the solution to your riding problems to change hands. All that does is waste time, cost money for different gear, and retard your progress and growth as a competitor.
Strength is the worst reason for going with one hand over another. If you are too lazy to get in shape, train, and fix the strength thing you won't make it anyway. The strength will come and that's why they build
gyms. Go with what matters most - your balance and first instinct.
Q. Do you provide equipment or do we have to bring our own?
A. If you have your own gear bring it so we can evaluate it, help tune it up as needed, and so you can use at the school what you'll be competing with after the school. If you do not have equipment we provide a full line of Pro Rodeo Equipment FREE as needed (except boots for the BB, SB, and BR students, or cleats for the bullfighters) at all of our Rodeo Schools. About any western style boots will work for the BB and BR but for SB you want a boot with at least a walking heel, no Ropers, lace ups, or high tops, and no rubber soles. Try to get something that fits well and is not too bulky, and with a relatively flat shank. It doesn't have to be flat but would be better if it's not too radical. The best option is a pair of the Competition Boots we offer (if you are buying anyway).
We also have a full line of Pro Rodeo Equipment for sale at the schools and on line with special discounts for our students (now and for as long as you rodeo)!
We have both new and quality used equipment for sale when you are ready to get your own equipment - before, during, or after the rodeo school you attend.
Q. Are meals and lodging provided as part of the tuition?
A. Only at New Caney, TX and Zolfo Springs, FL is lodging provided (sleeping bag/cot facility with on the grounds showers). Meals are served on the grounds at a reasonable concession fee.
At all other locations we have area lodging, and many who give student discounts. We send you that contact information along with directions and other essential student info. when you sign up for a school AND you can now access that same information on any rodeo school date/location here on our site. Just click on the school and event as if you were going to enroll on line. At the top of the page you'll see a link "For Participant Information click here".
I'm confident that once you are at our school you'll find you get far more than you pay for with or without lodging included. There's a reason we are the largest and most recognized rodeo training program in the world.
We now have a MESSAGE BOARD to be used to hook up with other students if you want to share rides, and/or split a motel room while at the school. Even if you don't make that arrangement before the school it's easy to get together with another student the first morning of the school so you can both share room costs and rides to and from the motel, eating places, etc. it works well for everyone and it's done at every school we do.
Q. Do you have schools in (YOUR STATE) or near (YOUR TOWN) or are you planning a school near (YOUR STATE, TOWN, COUNTRY)?
A. If it's not on our web site we do not have plans to do a school there at this time. That could change but even a Pending date and/or location will be posted as soon as it's being considered.
With all the locations we do have schools booked there's likely to be one closer than you think so check surrounding states for what is available. You might find, when you check the map, that there's one closer than you think! We'll make it worth the effort and travel to get to one we are doing. If you really want to get professional training and the right start in the sport you'll be glad you made the effort and the trip.
Q. Do you provide pickup from area airports and/or bus stations?
A. Only for New Caney, TX (fly into the "George Bush International Airport... NOT "Hobby Airport". You'll have to schedule with us well in advance so we can make arrangements for airport or bus station (when possible) pick up the afternoon/evening prior to the school you wish to attend. We need your complete information well in advance so we have time to arrange the pickup for you. A cell phone number along with the other info. (arrival date and time, airline name and flight number, your name, name of airport you are flying into... we ask that you use the George Bush International in Houston... not Hobby Airport) can be very valuable for everyone involved.
Q. What is the risk of injury at your schools?
A. When you deal with livestock the size of rodeo animals there's no way to promise we'll eliminate all potential injuries BUT we do have the highest and best safety rating in the sport. We have been chosen to do the safety seminars for Pro Rodeo, the National High School Rodeo Assn., the National Little Britches Rodeo Assn., The American Jr. Rodeo Assn., etc.
We match the quality and caliber of livestock (from beginner stock to pro stock for those who need it... and everything in between) with the students age, experience, physical condition, athletic ability, and ambitions. PLEASE NOTE: We are not dealing with trained animals and can not make you an athlete, change your physical condition, or mental state in only a three or four day training session. We do our best to put you on the stock best suited for your ability and will always advice when you need more drills, etc. first (as we've always done at all schools).
We also use the best safety gear in the sport (the best and most used protective vests, helmets, the "Brain Pad" mouth guards, quality riggings, saddles, and bull ropes, etc. By doing so our rate and severity of injuries is far below what you'll see in any rodeo or rodeo association.
Q. Do you take FEMALES at your schools?
A. Yes. We have many active former students in the Women's Professional Rodeo Assn., many men's minor league rodeo assns., and the only full membership holding female in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Assn. (P.R.C.A.) (in a rough stock event). If you've seen Reba McIntyre's newst video "Take that Mountain" Kyla (the former SB student) is the female bronc rider featured in it.
We have female students participate in Bare Back, Saddle Bronc, Bull Riding, and Clown-Bullfighting. You'll have a big time with our progrram as well as being challenged and treated with respect by our staff. If it's what you want to do "Go for it!" You'll never regret the adventure and experience or have to wish you had tried.
Q. Is there an age limit on your schools? When am I too young or old to start?
A. Not really. We limit the age on Jr. Bull Riders to age 13 and under. It's up to you to determine at what age your kids are old enough to learn and be coachable in a particular event. We've had some students at age 7 that were very focused and serious about rodeo. Others weren't really ready for the demands of the sport. It's really like any other sport in that consideration. If you are in doubt I'd suggest you consider the "Ground School" we offer. Anyone can do that at any sessioin location we do!
On the other end of things... we've had male students as old as 65 with one scheduled that is 70 years young. We have many students in their 30's, 40's and 50's. Obviously those older students were at the school for the adventure or with difffernt goals in mind and we made sure it was a great experience. Some were planning on doing the Sr. Pro Tour (age 40 and above with three age divisions) or other regional competition, and others just there for the one time/weekend "Vision Quest" adventure opportunity.
Our oldest female student was in her 50's, and she was amazing both as an athlete and as an intense competitor. We have had females of all ages and, in every event we offer.
Your physical condition and attitude will matter far more than your age.
Q. Can you do more than one event at a time at your schools?
A. Not really. While we do give $100.00 off the 2nd event I would strongly advise against it. Doing two events is like trying to do a golf clinic and a football camp that are going on at the same time. You can't be in two places at once and you'd end up being whipped both physically and mentally.
If you come to a school in one event and pour yourself into it I'm confident that you'll want to come back to another session in your other event(s). Our return student rate is the highest in rodeo for a reason.
Q. Do you have to have a group to enroll or can you enroll as an individual?
A. You can enroll at any rodeo school location we have scheduled as an individual.
Q. Can you do the "Vision Quest" fantasy BULL RIDING ADVENTURE at any rodeo school location?
A. Yes you can. We work with each student to meet their goals and help them fulfill their dreams. Some come to do it as a one time adventure and do just that while others with the same intentions find that it's way too cool to not do more. Other students come in thinking they'll do rodeo the rest of their life and discover that there's way more to the sport than they realized and some end up resetting their sights. Either way every student has an experience they will never regret or forget.
Q. How much are your schools?
A. As the listings for each school show on this web site, the tuition for our three day sessions is 390.00. There may be some sessions with a higher production cost that have a slightly higher tuition and are listed as such. The four day Schools in Rose Hill, KS are $415.00 (only $25.00 more for the additional full day).
Q. Can you do four days at any location?
A. No. ONLY at Rose Hill, KS as listed.
Q. Can you attend only one or two days of a school?
A. Yes, but the tuition will not change for the school and you need to be there the first day from the start. The first day of each session is too important to miss if there's any way you can be there for it. We'll do what we can to catch you up if you come late but, that first half day is when we get each students equipment set up and ready to go, show them how to use the gear, and cover all of the ride essentials and safety concepts for each event. You must be there the first day or allow us the time to get you caught up if you can't be there for it the first day. After the first day it's up to you if you are able to be there the remainder of the scheduled session.
Q. Can we do longer sessions than three or four days?
A. I think you'll find that our three or four days are pretty packed with activity and information. I don't have too many still thinking that the session should be longer when it's over. You'll work hard and have a chance to get on all the livestock you want during the school. IF however, you wanted to produce a school of your own, or book one for your group (15 minimum in one event) we can help you out.
Q. Will I get individual attention at your school?
A. All you can stand or want. Our staff is there to make your rodeo school experience the "the greatest weekend of your life" (a quote we hear often for our students). "We don't work by the hour, we work for you" and we are accessible anytime day or night.
Each ride is discussed in the arena and again during video review sessions. We work one at a time on drills and training exercises and do daily classroom sessions that are open for discussion, questions, and review of any topic students are interested in. There's no other school or staff in rodeo more experienced or that will invest more time and effort with you, the student. When you check around you'll hear that often from anyone who's been to one of our sessions... even more if they have been to other schools and have something to compare ours to!
Q. What should I do to prepare for the school?
A. Get in the best shape you can. See the next question/answer for suggestions there...
Q. What workout(s) or conditioning program would you suggest for rodeo?
A. We suggest the program outlined in the book "Body For Life". It covers everything from strength training, endurance training, nutrition, and attitude. If you are serious about the sport and serious about getting in shape pick up the book and get on the program. You can get the book at some Wal-Marts, about any bookstore, or On-Line. The counterpart magazine to "Body-for-Life" is "Muscle Media" and it's the best and most focused one out there. I don't work for them but I sure believe in their approach to conditioning and life.
Q. Do I have to have MEDICAL INSURANCE to do the school? Can you suggest some Insurance Companies? What is the GROUND SCHOOL all about?
A. You do have to have medical coverage to get on bucking stock or to fight bulls. Here are your options...
1. Do only the "Ground School" - It involves you in everything except getting on livestock or actual bullfighting bulls (classroom sessions, "IL TORO" bull riding training unit/and the BB/SB Training Unit, and all other drills, lectures, demonstration, films, video review, student handouts, and "lifetime student discounts" on rodeo equipment purchases. The cost is only $60.00 for the entire duration of the school session (from day one through the end of the three, or four day school).
2. You may choose to get "short term" medical coverage.
Former students have used many different companies. If you need help finding insurance: This information is intended for those who do not have a medical insurance policy and wish to pay for insurance that will cover them while they attend a rodeo school. The information provided here is for your benefit and in no way sold by, for, or connected with, Sankey Rodeo Schools. It's listing is a service to you, our valued client... Medical Insurance that will cover you in rodeo activity - call the following number 719-338-3428 and ask for Jim Chamley. Rates (subject to change without notice here): Individual $43.10 per month, for insured and spouse $54.90 per month and for a two parent family no limit on number of children $67.50 per month. for one parent family $55.50 per month. For more information give Mr. Chamley a call.
Q. Can I use my own equipment at the school or do I have to use yours?
A. Of course you can use your own gear. If you have quality gear it's the logical thing to do so you are training with the equipment you'll be using after the school. We keep a complete line of Professional Rodeo Equipment available FREE for student use because so many come into the schools without gear or worse, with equipment that is poorly made or fitted to their needs, or is simply worn out. We want you to have the best possible experience while you are with us and having quality gear to ride with is essential to your success.
Q. I was wondering, if I send my deposit in and then something comes up to where I can't attend a school what happens to the deposit? Does it go towards another school or do I just lose the money?
A. First, you have up until the deposit deadline (14 days prior the school) or when the school fills up and we start turning down students to get your deposit back or have it transfered to another school). If you have us return the deposit there is a $15.00 office charge to cover office time, phone calls, etc. No charge to just transfer the deposit to another session (date or location)
Second, if you are military and get transferred or called up we will always support you on that without charge regardless of what you need to do.
Finally, if you have a medical emergency we will of course return or transfer the deposit with confirmation of treatment.
Other than that, it would have to be a pretty good reason for not attending (in order to get back your deposit). Weather conditions (it snows, rains, and has ice in winter months) is not a condition for refund or transfer because... We hire staff and secure livestock based on the deposits we have in hand at the deposit deadline and/or enrollment being closed. Your tuition goes to pay for the livestock, staff, equipment and facility... with the biggest single part of it for livestock. We have the same bills to pay regardless of weather and everyone on the production end has to be there regardless of the weather for those who do come to the school. When someone doesn't show up the deposit does not cover our expenses and what we loose on the balance of tuition not paid. It offsets it but it doesn't make up for the hole it leaves in the budget.
I don't think most people realize or stop to consider the cost of putting on a rodeo school like ours. I know when I went as a student like you, it just seemed like a lot of money out of my pocket (a great investment but still a major cost for my little rodeo budget). As I got older and more involved in the sport I learned the value of the livestock, trucking, staff expenses, facility value, etc. Anyway, to answer your question, that's why we have the deposit deadline. We want to be as flexible and fair as possible to you and those we work with. We will always try to work with our customers when there are special circumstances but... Not being able to get off work (plan ahead and get things lined out before you enroll) and a thousand other lame excuses I've heard don't merit sending the deposit back or moving it to another location. With only two weeks advance required (unless it fills up faster than that) a person can and should have their schedule cleared and travel plans made. In all fairness, I think most of you will agree with that. We have to be able to prepare for you so the experience is a great one when you get to the school.
Q. Does my Deposit apply to the total Tuition Fee?
A. Yes, if you pay $100.00 as your deposit you will only have to pay the $290.00 (on a three day session) or $315.00 (on a four day session) balance on your tuition.
Q. Do I need experience riding horses to attend the school?
A. Not at all. The horse riding experince may help you understand the temperments of animals but the skills are very different (like water and snow sking).
Q. Do I need experience in rodeo to attend the school?
A. Not at all. In fact, it's often easier to learn the right way from the beginning so you won't have to relearn and break bad habits (that aren't working for you anyway).
Q. What is the best age to start?
A. I'd suggest the age you are now. When you are ready that's the time to do it. If you don't you will always wish you had done it sooner. Don't miss out on one of life's funnest experiences!
Q. How can you tell the difference between a Left Hand & a Right Hand Bull Rope?
A. Click here to see a diagram.
