As part of Positively Osceola’s 2026 — A New Year, A New Hope series, Silver Spurs Big Boss Kaye Whaley—an educator, longtime community leader, and only the fourth woman to lead the Silver Spurs Club in its 80-plus-year history—reflects on a year of tradition, service, and teamwork while looking ahead to a community-first future for rodeo in and around Osceola County.

As we step into 2026, I find myself both grateful and hopeful.
The past year reminded us just how strong this community truly is. In 2025, we continued carrying forward a tradition that has been part of Osceola County for generations, while also finding new ways to meet the needs of today. Our members and volunteers brought families back into the arena, expanded programs like Student Night to reach more young people than ever before, and supported local charities at a level we haven’t seen in decades. Through the rodeo’s continued growth, the Silver Spurs Club was able to give back more than $100,000 to local causes, reinforcing our long-standing commitment to service.

Every rodeo performance, every youth scholarship, and every volunteer hour was rooted in pride in our heritage and care for our neighbors. We strengthened partnerships with organizations like Help Now, providing free rodeo experiences for teens impacted by abuse, while continuing to champion youth rodeo, the Special Rodeo for individuals with disabilities, and equine-based programs that bring hope and healing. When unexpected needs arose, like critical shelter repairs following a major storm, we responded without hesitation.

Like many organizations, we also faced challenges. Rising costs, changing expectations, and the responsibility of preserving tradition in a growing community tested us. What carried us through was teamwork. When we leaned on one another, we found solutions that honored our past while allowing us to move forward with confidence.

Looking ahead to 2026, my hope is simple and strong: that we continue strengthening the bond between tradition and community. Our priority is to welcome new generations while staying grounded in the values that built this club, which include hard work, service, and heart. We will keep investing in youth, supporting local causes, and protecting the legacy entrusted to us.

Osceola County is growing, and with that growth comes opportunity. My vision for 2026 is that we grow with intention, remain community-first, and ensure the Silver Spurs spirit continues to belong to everyone who calls this place home.

I am proud of where we have been, grateful for those who stand beside us, and hopeful for what lies ahead.

Rooted in tradition and focused on the future, the Silver Spurs Rodeo Parade continues to ride on as a cornerstone of Osceola County’s cultural heritage. The parade serves as the opening act to a full week of high-energy rodeo action at Osceola Heritage Park, bringing families and fans together for one of the community’s most anticipated annual celebrations.

The excitement begins with Monster Bulls on Saturday, February 14, at 7:30 p.m., featuring a full night of elite bull riding as cowboys take on the Silver Spurs’ biggest and most powerful bulls.

The action continues with the 156th Silver Spurs Rodeo, a PRCA-sanctioned event showcasing all seven traditional rodeo disciplines:

  • Opening Night: Thursday, February 19, at 7:30 p.m.

  • Friday Performance: Friday, February 20, at 7:30 p.m.

  • Saturday Night Performance: Saturday, February 21, at 7:30 p.m.

  • Championship Sunday: Sunday, February 22, at 2:00 p.m.

Together, the parade and rodeo weekend reflect the Silver Spurs Club’s ongoing commitment to honoring its legacy while creating meaningful, community-centered experiences for generations to come.