The Department of Animal & Food Sciences in the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources at Texas Tech University is proud to announce the appointment of Swaize Lee as the new head coach of the Texas Tech Rodeo Team.
Lee was selected following a competitive national search process that drew a highly qualified pool of candidates. The search committee, composed of external stakeholders, current students, and Texas Tech faculty and staff, identified Lee as a standout candidate for her demonstrated leadership, values-based coaching philosophy, and forward-thinking vision for the future of the rodeo program.
“Texas Tech Rodeo has a proud tradition of student achievement and experiential learning,” said Chance Brooks, Chair of the Department of Animal & Food Sciences. “Swaize Lee brings a clear vision, authentic leadership, and a strong foundation of integrity and accountability that matches the culture and goals of our department. We are confident in her ability to lead the program to new heights, both competitively and educationally.”
Lee’s approach to program development centers on building an elite and unified team of student-athletes, supported by enhanced scholarship opportunities and hands-on involvement in day-to-day operations, including livestock care and event production. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes student success, ethical animal care, financial sustainability, and increased visibility on the national rodeo stage.
“I am honored to serve as the Head Rodeo Coach of the Texas Tech Rodeo Program,” Lee said. “My experience as interim has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to build on that momentum. I aim to continue collaborating with our exceptional student-athletes while also focusing on recruiting the next generation of Red Raiders who will contribute to our proud tradition. I look forward to strengthening connections within our community and fostering relationships that help champion the goals of our student-athletes.”
“Swaize brings a thoughtful, student-first mindset to the program—one that reflects our mission to provide innovative, ethical, and impactful equine experiences,” said John Pipkin, Executive Director of the Equine Science Program and the Texas Tech Equestrian Center. “Her understanding of both the academic and competitive sides of rodeo makes Swaize an exceptional fit to lead a program that transforms lives and strengthens communities.”
Lee’s appointment supports the broader strategic goals of Davis College, including fostering academic excellence, advancing industry engagement, and preparing students for leadership in agriculture and natural resources. Under her direction, Texas Tech Rodeo will continue to serve as a model of discipline, determination and success, both in and out of the arena.
CONTACT: Clint Krehbiel, Dean, Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2808 or Clint.Krehbiel@ttu.edu
0611NM25 / For more information about Texas Tech Rodeo and the Department of Animal & Food Sciences, please visit here