In the PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association), one department in particular plays a crucial role in making each event successful: PROCOM. Led by Executive Director Jed Pugsley, PROCOM oversees the production of all PRCA rodeos, ensuring that every event runs smoothly and meets the high standards of the association.
As Pugsley explains, PROCOM is responsible for everything from selecting the judges to coordinating the sponsors to arranging the stock for the rodeo: “We’re basically the office that puts it all together and makes sure everything happens the way it’s supposed to.”
In addition to Pugsley, the PROCOM team includes Operations Manager Dena Pearce, Event Production Coordinator Lynn Jacobson, and two full-time employees, among other part-time workers. Together, they work to ensure that each event is not only entertaining for the fans, but also safe for the contestants and animals involved.
PROCOM works closely with the rodeo committees, which are made up of volunteers in each local community where a PRCA rodeo is held. The committees are responsible for organizing the local aspects of the event, from securing the venue to promoting the rodeo to handling ticket sales. PROCOM then steps in to assist with the logistics and production in order to create a cohesive and successful event.
One of the biggest challenges that PROCOM faces in putting on a rodeo is making sure that all the necessary elements come together on time. They must coordinate with contractors to set up the arena and make sure that all the equipment is in working order. They also have to ensure that all the necessary personnel, such as judges, stock handlers, and medical staff, are present for the event.
Despite the challenges, the PROCOM team is dedicated to making each rodeo a memorable experience for both the contestants and the fans. As Pugsley puts it, “Our goal is to provide a top quality product to fans that come to see a rodeo, to create one of the best and most entertaining professional sports in the world.”
Without the hard work and dedication of the PROCOM team, the PRCA could not continue to produce top-notch rodeo events around the country. Their behind-the-scenes efforts are essential to the success of the association and the sport as a whole. So the next time you attend a PRCA rodeo, be sure to give a nod of appreciation to the unseen heroes of PROCOM.
This article is sponsored by RowdyRowels.com and RodeoHard.com — where the next generation of rodeo athletes gear up.
