Meet the Founder
Meet Denny Count
Denny Count founded Next Generation Bull Riding (NextGen) with a vision to create a mentored environment where young riders can develop their skills and gain the experience needed to excel in the sport. After traveling across the country, he recognized a gap in youth bull riding—most associations focus solely on the riders, leaving little room for those who may not compete but still want to be part of the sport.​
Meet Our Team: The Heart of NextGen
Behind every great rider is a dedicated team of mentors, professionals, and passionate supporters who make NextGen possible. Our mentors come from all areas of the rodeo world, bringing years of experience in bull riding, stock contracting, cowboy protection, judging, announcing, and more. These individuals are not only here to guide and train the next generation of athletes but to inspire, encourage, and instill the values of sportsmanship, hard work, and perseverance.
Cody Ransom
Bull Riding Mentor & Stock Contractor
Cody was raised in Colorado and began riding sheep and steers at a young age. After a break from riding, Cody returned to the sport at 25, competing in bull riding while serving in the Army. Over the years, Cody has competed in IPRA, SEBRA, and various events across Michigan, Colorado, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, Ohio, and Missouri. Now based in Michigan, Cody continues to ride locally, work with horses, and raise miniature bucking bulls to help coach and mentor the next generation of bull riders. Becoming part of Next Generation Bull Riders has been a meaningful journey for Cody and his family, and they take great pride in being involved in the future of the sport they love.
Join the Team: The Power of Volunteers
NextGen is more than just an event—it’s a community built by the hands of many. From setting up arenas to keeping riders safe, volunteers play a vital role in ensuring every event runs smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned rodeo hand or a parent looking to support your child’s passion, there are countless ways to get involved. Your time and effort help us create a safe, exciting, and educational experience for every young rider who steps into the arena.
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Chute Help – Assist in organizing and loading bulls into the chute safely.
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Arena Setup & Breakdown – Help set up fencing, chutes, and signage before the event and assist with takedown afterward.
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Check-In Crew – Welcome participants, verify entries, and distribute rider numbers.
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Safety Spotter – Assist with keeping the arena clear and ensuring riders and stock stay safe.
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Gate Operator – Open and close gates at the right times to ensure smooth transitions.
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Timekeeper – Keep track of ride times and ensure accurate scoring.
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Stock Runner – Help guide bulls and stock from the arena back to their pens.
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Judge’s Assistant – Support the judging team by tracking scores and recording results.
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Announcer Assistant – Provide event updates, rider details, and scoring information to the announcer.
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First Aid Support – Be on standby to assist with minor medical needs until professionals arrive.
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Hospitality Crew – Provide food, water, and support for riders, mentors, and volunteers.
Our events wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and hard work of our volunteers, who keep everything running smoothly and ensure a safe, exciting experience for our young riders.
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You are the power behind NextGen. Your time, effort, and passion help us create opportunities for the next generation of bull riders and rodeo professionals. From all of us at NextGen—thank you for being part of this incredible journey!