TULSA, Okla. — Oklahoma State University lost a bull rider and student in an incident at a rodeo in Mineral Wells, Texas.
OSU's Rodeo Coach, Cody Hollingsworth, took to Twitter to announce the death of Rowdy Lee Swanson.
"With a heavy and aching heart, I am saddened to announce that the OSU Rodeo Team has lost one of our own, Rowdy Swanson. He was a big part of our rodeo family and he will be missed immensely. Our thoughts are with the Swanson family at this time." - Coach Cody Hollingsworth. pic.twitter.com/wyIJ7VRJsK
— OKState Rodeo Team (@OkStateRodeo) September 18, 2020
Swanson, 20, died from injuries sustained after being bucked off a bull at the Palo Pinto County Livestock Associations's PRCA Rodeo, according to TODAY.
In a Facebook post, the Palo Pinto County Livestock Association extended condolences to Swanson's family.
Coach Hollingsworth said the family is establishing a scholarship in Swanson's name as a tribute to him.
“We are comforted by the overwhelming response and outpouring of support that have been shown since Rowdy’s passing. He was a wonderful person and incredible teammate, student and friend to so many. We continue to send our thoughts and support to his family and others close to him.
The OSU Rodeo Team celebrates Rowdy’s life and cherishes the time we had with him. He always had a smile on his face and was a joy to be around. His positivity and enthusiasm for life and rodeo influenced us all. Rowdy was a great young man who will be missed dearly.
His family is establishing a scholarship in Rowdy’s name as a memorial tribute to him. Contributions can be made to the Rowdy Swanson Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o BancFirst, PO Box 430, Frederick, OK 73542.”
Swanson came to OSU from Duncan, Oklahoma and was an animal sciences major.
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