Western Texas College Announces New Leadership Team for Rodeo Program

SNYDER—Western Texas College has named Jacob Walters and Timmi Lynne Hutchings as the new leadership team for its rodeo program. Walters will serve as the Men's Head Rodeo Coach, and Hutchings will serve as the Women's Head Rodeo Coach. Both of them bring to the college a combination of competitive experience, collegiate leadership, and a shared commitment to student success. 

"Rodeo student-athletes face unique challenges as they balance academics, competition, work, and personal responsibilities," noted Tammy Davis, Western Texas College Athletics Director. "Timmi and Jacob bring with them their experiences and understanding as students in a collegiate rodeo program. Both of them have strong communication skills in addition to their vast knowledge of National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) rules and collegiate rodeo structure. Those characteristics align perfectly with the culture at WTC."

Western Texas College has long maintained one of the most respected rodeo programs in the region, producing national champions and qualifiers, regional champions, and graduates who have gone on to successful careers both inside and outside the arena. The addition of Walters and Hutchings represents the next chapter in that tradition.

"Throughout the search process, both Jacob and Timmi consistently demonstrated a student-first mindset," Davis said. "They understand the importance of creating an environment where students feel supported athletically, academically, and personally." 

Walters, a former WTC dual credit student, returns to West Texas after a successful collegiate rodeo career that includes multiple College National Finals Rodeo qualifications, regional championships, and service as the NIRA Student President. He recently completed his degree at Texas Tech University and is pursuing graduate studies in Sports Administration.

"The opportunity to help young people grow as competitors, students, and individuals really attracted me to this position," Walters said. "I want our athletes to leave WTC with a credential or degree, confidence, and skills that will serve them long after their rodeo careers. I'm excited to be here and step into a winning culture. We plan to maintain WTC's historically winning tradition." 

Hutchings served as Assistant Rodeo Coach at Sul Ross State University. A former NIRA Finals qualifier, she brings collegiate coaching experience and a passion for mentoring student-athletes. Hutchings holds a Master's of Science degree in Sports Administration and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in business.

"I firmly believe that rodeo provides opportunities to build confidence, discipline, and character," Hutchings stated. "I look forward to helping our student-athletes develop those qualities while pursuing their academic and competitive goals. I'm excited for the hard work, the victories, and the lifelong bonds that will be forged."

Both coaches emphasized their commitment to recruiting student-athletes who share WTC's values of hard work, integrity, and academic achievement. They plan to build strong relationships with high school rodeo programs and continue attracting talented competitors from across Texas, the nation, and around the world.

"Jacob and Timmi understand that coaching is about much more than just rodeo," said Dr. Laurie Sharp, President of Western Texas College. "The relationships that students build with their coaches often shape their entire college experience. They both bring a genuine desire to invest in students and help them succeed in every area of their lives. We are very excited to welcome them to the WTC family."