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When Treyvan Talsma’s name was announced as the South Dakota State 4-H Senior Boys All-Around Champion, his mother, Kristin, was caught off guard. “I teared up,” she recalled. “It was a complete surprise. There are so many great competitors in the state. South Dakota is known for producing incredible rodeo athletes.” For Treyvan’s parents, Ty and Kristin Talsma of Avon, the moment was more than just an award, it was a culmination of years of grit, perseverance, and unwavering support from family and community. While Kristin typically tallies points throughout the competition weekend, this year she didn’t, making the announcement even more unexpected. “I had no idea,” she said. “We were just there to support him, like always.” But for Treyvan, the win wasn’t entirely out of the blue. “I realized I might have a shot at it when I stayed consistent and started gaining points,” he said. “Still, hearing my name called—it felt great. It’s a huge honor, but it just makes me want to be better.” Treyvan first caught the rodeo bug in junior high. Watching his older brother, Terran, compete ignited a fire and a friendly sibling rivalry that has pushed them both to improve. “There’s definitely a healthy competition between the two,” Kristin said. “Terran has always been Treyvan’s biggest fan. Even when he can’t attend rodeos, he’s texting, calling, asking for videos of every run, and giving advice or encouragement.” Treyvan’s rodeo roots run deep. He represents the third generation of rodeo athletes in the Talsma family. Both Ty and Kristin competed, as did grandfathers on both sides. “My dad’s been a long-time rodeo contestant, so it’s really something that’s always been part of our family,” Treyvan explained. “We’re from Avon, and honestly, I got started in 4-H rodeo because my dad told me to.” “The road to All-Around Champion was built in the practice pen,” Ty said. “He practices every night, working on fundamentals, focusing on nutrition, and keeping his priorities straight through his Christian faith. It’s not just talent—it’s discipline.” Treyvan added: “My schedule before state was tough. Hard practice for hours—every day. After school and football, I’d still be in the pen working.” That discipline was evident one evening in the practice pen when Treyvan kept missing calf runs. Frustrated, he paused, reset, and said aloud, “I’m gonna handle this.” He backed into the box, focused and didn’t miss again. “That moment stands out,” Kristin said. “It wasn’t about success in the ring, it was about growth, learning to manage emotions, and staying focused.” “That’s one thing I’ve learned through all this—don’t stress anything, just keep going,” Treyvan said. At the state finals, Treyvan competed in team roping, calf roping, and steer wrestling, events that earned him the AllAround title. “Steer wrestling is probably my favorite,” he said. “I’m a two-time national qualifier in that event, so it’s been a big part of my journey.” He didn’t face any major setbacks this season but kept his focus through consistent hard work. “My dad has taught me everything I know,” Treyvan said. “And I’ve got a great support system—my football team backs me, too.” Through 4-H and rodeo, the Talsmas say Treyvan has grown not just as a competitor, but as a young man. “These programs teach life lessons: how to care for animals, manage finances, work with all kinds of people, and most importantly, how to put in the hard work even when no one’s watching,” Kristin said. “4-H has helped me develop a lot, especially in helping others work toward their goals,” Treyvan shared. “That’s something I want to pass on. I hope my success inspires other contestants to help others too.” Treyvan says the people around him have played a huge role in shaping his path. “My biggest mentor has definitely been my dad,” he said. “He’s always in the practice pen with me. And the whole rodeo community has really helped me grow.” The support behind Treyvan has been as solid as his work ethic. Coaches, fellow competitors, and even professional rodeo athletes and world champions have poured into his journey, offering mentorship, advice, and encouragement. “ The rodeo and 4 - H community has become like family,” Kristin said. “We camp together, eat together, sometimes share horses. If someone needs something, others step up. That kind of community is rare and special.” Treyvan, who also excels in football, hopes to continue both sports at the college level while studying business. “Balancing everything—school, sports, and rodeo—can be a lot, but I make sure to give myself ample time to do it all,” he said. Ty and Kristin say no matter what the future holds, their hope is that Treyvan continues to pursue what he loves with strong character and grounded faith. “Watching your kids find success in the hard things— that’s what makes it all worth it,” Kristin reflected. “I’ve even learned from Treyvan. His dedication and discipline inspire us.” And for Treyvan, this buckle carries more meaning than just the title. “This was my first saddle win,” he said. “That’s something I’ll always remember. But even more than that, I’ll remember what it took to earn it.” His advice to younger kids looking up to him? “Stay true to your practice,” he said. “That’s what makes the difference.”