Supporting the Next Generation of Farm Athletes

The content of this blog is derived from my interview with Troy Stickels, Acting Director of Farm Athletes.

At the heart of rural America lies a unique spirit of perseverance, community, and grit—a spirit deeply rooted in farming and ranching. Yet for many young athletes from farm families, the dream of pursuing college sports can feel distant, hindered by financial barriers and limited opportunities. This is where Farm Athletes steps in, a program with a mission to make those dreams attainable.

Founded by Zach Bosle, Farm Athletes emerged from a simple idea: to provide financial assistance to student athletes from farming and ranching backgrounds. These young individuals not only face the challenges of higher education costs but also the demanding schedules that come with collegiate sports. Farm Athletes seeks to bridge that gap, ensuring these exceptional students have the support they need to thrive both in sports and education.

The Evolution: From NIL Deals to Scholarships

Initially focused on name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, Farm Athletes worked with Tractor Tuesday, Zach Bosle's online auction company, to sponsor 20 farm athletes across the country. Through NIL partnerships, these athletes received financial support while promoting Tractor Tuesday. However, as the college sports landscape shifted, so did Farm Athletes' approach. With the rise of collectives—groups that pool financial donations to support athletes—traditional walk-on opportunities have diminished. Today, Farm Athletes has transitioned to offering scholarships, enabling wider support for college athletes at all levels.

Creating a Community of Farm Athletes

Farm Athletes is about more than financial aid; it’s about building a network of like-minded individuals who share a common heritage. Last year, the program supported 20 student athletes, fostering connections among participants from across the nation. These relationships, strengthened through social media and shared experiences, reflect the unique bond of being part of the Farm Athletes family. Additionally, the program aims to encourage students to return to their farming roots after graduation, bolstering rural communities and preserving the legacy of family farms.

The Road Ahead: Expanding Support

Farm Athletes is poised for growth, but it needs support to continue its mission. The program seeks partnerships with businesses in the agricultural industry—pivot dealers, seed providers, and local co-ops—to fund scholarships for these deserving students. Whether through dedicated scholarship funds for specific regions or general donations to Farm Athletes, every contribution helps uplift young athletes and their aspirations.

Farm Athletes also encourages farm kids nationwide to apply for scholarships. By joining this program, students become part of a supportive community, united by shared values and the drive to succeed both on and off the field.

How to Get Involved

To get involved, visit FarmAthletes.com. There, you’ll find information on supported athletes, scholarship applications, and ways to donate.

Listen to the Full Interview Here: