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The Moffat County High School rodeo team. They are, back row, from left, Hanna Hegwer, Taylor Vernon, Troy Vernon, Eric Fleming and Matt Bohrer. In the front row, from left, are Bryanne Runnion, Gabby Miller, Jessi Moser and Stevie Brumback.

Craig — The end of the 2008 fall rodeo season couldn't come soon enough for Moffat County High School coach Dave Fleming.

More than half his team was banged up with injuries in the fall season's final event.

Gabby Miller competed with cracked ribs, and Taana Taylor rode with a sling around her arm, while Hanna Hegwer and Matt Bohrer watched from the sidelines with what proved to be season-ending injuries.

Hegwer tore her anterior cruciate ligament, and Bohrer still is recovering from being speared by a bull's horn during the summer.

But, that was then.

The four-month layoff for the winter not only healed the Bulldogs' wounds, it restored the team's confidence heading into the spring season-opener March 28 in Cortez.

"We're all excited to get back in the swing of things," Fleming said. "I know the kids are anxious to get going. They're all ready to get out there and give it everything they've got."

High school rodeo is different than the other MCHS sports.

There is no team bus, no blue and white uniform and the season doesn't end with a state championship.

High school rodeo's biggest dance is the national tournament.

"The top 10 in each event advance to state," Fleming said, "and the top four finishers at state move on to nationals. Our goal is to make it to nationals."

Points earned in the fall carry over to the spring - good news for MCHS' top three.

"I think we have three legitimate contenders" to advance to nationals, Fleming said. "I know that's their main focus."

Eric Fleming and siblings Troy and Taylor Vernon are sitting in prime position to make a charge.

Eric Fleming is in fifth-place in the all-around standings with 89 points.

Troy Vernon sits in 11th place in the all-around standings with 62.5 points, and Taylor Vernon is in the top 10 in goat tying with 27 points.

Dave Fleming said he expects each to progress this spring.

"Eric went to a bull riding school in California before Christmas, and I expect him to improve," he said. "I know Troy will continue to improve, and Taylor just has that drive, dedication and sheer will to get better. I'm expecting them all to make some noise this season."