A college rodeo community is grieving after Tarleton State University student-athlete Alejandra Franco died Thursday from injuries she sustained while performing at the S.A.L.E. Arena in Alpine, Texas. Sul Ross State University, which hosted the event, announced her death, and Tarleton State in Stephenville confirmed Franco as the student-athlete lost during the competition. She had celebrated her birthday on August 25, roughly a month before her death.
Tarleton President James Hurley remembered Franco as a cherished student-athlete who touched many lives through her smile, leadership and kindness. “Alejandra tragically lost her life yesterday, leaving behind a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her,” he said. Organizers at Sul Ross are offering purple ribbons at the arena gate for the remainder of rodeo weekend, asking attendees to wear them or wear purple to show love and support. No further details about the incident have been released.
Rodeo runs deep in Texas college athletics, and a loss like this reaches well beyond one campus. For families across the Suncoast who follow college sports, county fairs, or just know what it means to lose someone young, the purple ribbon is a simple way to stand with a grieving team this weekend. Have you ever been part of a community tribute like this? Tell us in the comments.
