Cultivating champions in and out of the arena
What is our Why?
At Smarty Rodeo, we’re honored to work alongside individuals, events, producers, and companies throughout the Western industry. Every partnership we build is rooted in the values that guide us—faith, authenticity, and integrity—and our mission is to ensure each relationship is meaningful and beneficial for everyone involved.
What inspires us most, though, is using these opportunities to invest in the next generation. We’re dedicated to providing resources and opportunities for high school athletes that may not otherwise be within their reach, helping them grow not only as competitors but as individuals. Our greatest hope is to see them thrive in and out of the arena—becoming champions in competition and leaders in life.
How to Become a Young Pro
Each year, we welcome a new group of 30 athletes to represent the Young Pro team, selected through an application process outlined on our website. We encourage applicants to focus on their goals both in and out of the arena, as our program is designed to equip young athletes with the resources they need for success beyond competition. Our advisors are always available to offer guidance on creating standout applications, as building strong relationships is a key part of our mission.
If an applicant isn't chosen, it may be due to factors such as age or the strength of other candidates who are at a pivotal point in their high school careers and well-suited for the program. Advisors are available to provide feedback after the team selection, and we strongly encourage applicants to re-apply in the future as they continue to grow and develop.
To be eligible for the 2027 Smarty Rodeo Young Pros, athletes must be enrolled in high school (9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grade) as of August 1st, 2026.
Applications will reopen in the Fall of 2026
New team announced January 5th, 2026 at 7pm CST
Class of 2026 Young Pros are January 1st-December 31st
Meet the 2026 team
From Young Pro To Alumni
We want the relationships and experiences we build with each Young Pro to last far beyond just one year. That’s why in 2023, we launched the Alumni Program. Once you’ve completed your year as a Young Pro, you are automatically included in the Alumni program, though participation is completely optional.
As a Smarty Rodeo Young Pro Alumni, you remain an important part of the Smarty Rodeo family. You’ll have access to our private group to connect with teammates, invitations to team calls, exclusive product discounts, and ongoing support. We also encourage Alumni to continue their journey by transitioning into our collegiate program.
This program ensures that even after your time as a Young Pro, you stay connected, supported, and part of the legacy we’re building together.
Abby Barnes
Programs Manager
“At Smarty Rodeo, we’re all about helping young athletes become champions both in and out of the arena, guided by a foundation of faith. Our Smarty Rodeo Young Pros live out the values of authenticity, integrity, and faith, which help them grow as competitors and as people. This program isn’t just about developing talent—it’s about building lasting relationships with industry professionals, creating a supportive network that goes beyond the arena and helps our athletes succeed in all areas of life.”
