Born in Houston, Texas and attending Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos (which is now Texas State University-San Marcos) Matt joined the PRCA in 1985. Matt’s ability to rope was a god given gift and when he realized that he used that gift to accomplish everything he could for as long as he could. Matt has been an integral part of the rodeo community for the last 25 years. Qualifying and competing at 20 consecutive (1986-2005) Wrangler National Finals Rodeo for 20 consecutive years, he won the average in 2003. His career earnings of $1,318,118 with his last PRCA rodeo check in 2008. Tyler notoriously enjoyed the competition and always felt it was an honor to compete.
His major titles include Reno, Nev.; Tucson, Ariz.; San Angelo, Texas; Austin, Texas; Denver; Houston, Cody, Wyo.; Casper, Wyo., and Colorado Springs, Colo.
Winning the Bob Feist Invitational twice and a host of other prestigious stand alone team ropings he evolved into one of rodeo’s greatest treasures as he rode the rodeo of life and deserves to be recognized as one of the select group of individuals who, through their dedication and commitment to the sport, have become giants in our community.