Wade Sankey and Matt Scharping make up one of rodeo’s most dynamic teams, blending Wade’s family legacy in stock contracting with Matt’s new take on bucking bull genetics.
Together, they’re taking rodeo to new heights while honoring its core values of God, family, and country. Their mission is simple but powerful: bring an authentic western experience to new audiences.
Two Paths, One Vision
Wade grew up immersed in rodeo stock contracting in Cody, Wyoming. As a third-generation stock contractor, he took to heart a great piece of advice he once received: “Your job as the next generation is not just to say, ‘I’m the next generation.’ Your job is to make things better.”
As a former bareback and saddle bronc rider, too, understanding both sides of the arena gave Wade perspective on how to improve the sport from within.
Matt’s journey took a dramatically different route: His first passion was sprint car racing, and he became one of the top tool dealers in the country. A move to Michigan for a corporate job left him missing farm life.
While looking for a horse for his daughter, he stumbled across bucking bulls and was hooked. It scratched his competitive itch while returning him to his farming roots.
What makes these men click is how different their backgrounds are — Wade’s family history means he knows the rodeo business inside and out, while Matt brings fresh ideas from outside the industry. Both guys share one goal: making rodeo better.
Saddle Broncs and Championship Stock
Together, Wade and Matt have built an impressive legacy in professional rodeo. Their stock has earned over 400 selections to the National Finals Rodeo, and they’ve produced animals that have claimed five PRCA World Champion Saddle Bronc titles.
Their reputation for quality has made them go-to providers for some of rodeo’s most prestigious events. From Cheyenne, Wyoming and Pendleton, Oregon to Fort Worth, Texas and Salt Lake City, Wade and Matt deliver livestock that creates the thrilling, authentic rodeo experiences fans crave.
Driving the Rodeo Renaissance
Today, Wade and Matt appreciate what they call “the Yellowstone effect” — a surging interest in rodeo and western lifestyle thanks to its presence in popular culture.
People are drawn to “the cowboy way of life, the grittiness, the toughness,” as Matt puts it. The sport represents a connection to American heritage and family values that resonates with audiences hungry for authentic experiences.
What distinguishes Wade and Matt’s partnership is their profound respect for the animals that make rodeo possible. While spectators see the thrill of the ride, Wade and Matt see their livestock’s personalities and athletic abilities.
“It’s not about us — it’s about them,” Matt says of the animals.
They’re passionate about educating the public on the reality of rodeo, countering misconceptions about animal treatment with transparency and knowledge.
What Drew Wade and Matt to MKC?
Wade’s a lifelong knife collector, starting when he accompanied his grandfather to yard sales as a kid. But his and Matt’s alliance with Montana Knife Company isn’t just built on nostalgia. It stems from mutual values and appreciation for craftsmanship.
Wade and Matt respect Josh Smith for building quality products that align with rodeo’s ethos — Matt believes only premium products deserve endorsement. Their preferred MKC tools reflect their working needs: Matt relies on the Stockyard for ranch work, while Wade can’t get enough of the Whitetail.
The Road Ahead
The future looks promising as Wade and Matt continue championing rodeo while preserving its core values. They’re dedicated to making the sport accessible to everyone, regardless of background.
“Everybody’s invited to come to a rodeo,” Matt says.
Whether they’re bringing top-quality livestock to arenas or introducing new fans to the sport they love, Wade and Matt exemplify the best of what rodeo — and MKC — represents: tradition, innovation, and connection to America’s heritage.
Keep Up With Wade and Matt
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Instagram: Follow their rodeo journey at @sankeyprorodeo and @phenomgenetics.
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YouTube: Catch behind-the-scenes action and stock highlights at @sankeyprorodeoandphenomgen4535.
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Facebook: Stay updated on their latest on Pro Rodeo at Sankey Pro Rodeo and Phenom Genetics Inc.
Website: Learn more about Sankey Pro Rodeo
