What is our Why
At Smarty Rodeo, we're grateful for the opportunity to partner with incredible individuals, events, producers, and companies across the Western industry. Everything we do is guided by our core values of faith, authenticity, and integrity, and we're committed to building relationships that create a lasting, positive impact.
Those partnerships allow us to invest in what matters most: the next generation. Through mentorship, education, networking, and unique experiences, we strive to provide opportunities that help high school athletes grow in ways that extend far beyond the arena.
Our mission isn't just to develop better competitors. It's to help shape confident young men and women of character who are equipped to lead, serve, and make a difference wherever life takes them.
HOW TO BECOME A YOUNG PRO
Each year, a new class of athletes is selected to represent the Smarty Rodeo Young Pros through a competitive application process. Applicants are encouraged to share their story, goals, and what makes them a great fit for the program.
Because team spots are limited, selections are based on several factors, including the strength of the application, authenticity, character, and how well each applicant represents the mission and values of Smarty Rodeo. We welcome athletes of all skill levels and backgrounds, and we encourage every applicant to let their personality and experiences shine through.
If an athlete is not selected, we encourage them to stay connected, continue pursuing their goals, and consider applying again in the future.
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 1, 2026.
Applications open October 1st, 2026.
The 2027 Young Pro Team will be announced January 5, 2027, at 7:00 PM CST.
Meet the 2026 team
Program Commitment
The Smarty Rodeo Young Pro program is a one-year commitment running January 1 through December 31. Selected athletes are expected to actively participate throughout the year while representing Smarty Rodeo and their fellow teammates with pride.
Being named a Young Pro is more than a title. It is an opportunity to be part of a team, build lasting relationships, and represent a program that continues to grow within the Western industry.
From Young Pro To Alumni
We believe the relationships built through Young Pros should extend far beyond one year. In 2023, we launched the Young Pro Alumni Program to continue supporting athletes after they complete their time on the team.
Upon completion of their Young Pro year, athletes are automatically welcomed into the Alumni Program, with participation being completely optional. Alumni remain part of the Smarty Rodeo family through continued connections with teammates, exclusive opportunities, product discounts, and support as they pursue their next steps, including the opportunity to transition into our Ambassador Program.
Abby Barnes
Programs Manager
“While our goal with the Young Pro program is to invest in the next generation of rodeo athletes, what these young men and women give back to us is incredibly special. Watching the connections they build and the support they provide one another long after their year as a Young Pro is complete is one of the most rewarding parts of this program. We’re grateful to celebrate their successes, stand beside them through challenges, and continue being a part of their journey wherever life takes them.”
