Montana State's Cole Detton Lets Rodeo Skills Shine

Senior bulldogger aims to add to program's storied history in final season

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:40pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and physical exertion of a steer wrestling competition, with the forms of the steer and wrestler broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color.A cubist interpretation of the raw power and athleticism of steer wrestling, a signature event in Montana State's storied rodeo program.Bozeman Today

Montana State senior Cole Detton is one of the top steer wrestlers in the school's rodeo history, according to coach Kyle Whitaker. Detton, who found success in high school, has developed substantially during his time in Bozeman and is now a confident competitor who expects to win. As he enters his final season, Detton is motivated to contribute to the program's championship legacy.

Why it matters

Detton's story highlights the growth and development of a talented student-athlete who has made the most of his time at Montana State. His success reflects well on the strength of the school's rodeo program, which has produced many champions over the years.

The details

Detton, a senior on the Montana State rodeo team, is considered one of the best steer wrestlers the program has ever seen. He began dedicating himself to the sport in high school, practicing daily at an arena on his family's property in Great Falls. Since arriving at MSU, Detton has continued to improve, gaining the confidence to expect to win at competitions. Last year, coach Whitaker saw 'the light turn on' for Detton, who started going to rodeos expecting to come out on top.

  • Detton first started seriously pursuing steer wrestling in high school.
  • Detton has been a standout on the Montana State rodeo team for several years.

The players

Cole Detton

A senior on the Montana State rodeo team and one of the top steer wrestlers in the program's history.

Kyle Whitaker

The head coach of the Montana State rodeo team, who has been impressed by Detton's abilities and development.

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What they’re saying

“Cole Detton is for sure (among the) top-10, maybe top-five steer wrestlers at Montana State all-time. We've been really blessed since I've been here, we have Cole Detton and Jaden Whitman here. They're both right up there towards the top of the best that's ever been here, and there's been a lot of good ones here.”

— Kyle Whitaker, Montana State Rodeo Coach

“There's a lot of history here in the rodeo program. It'd be great to be on a team where we add on to that history.”

— Cole Detton

What’s next

Detton will look to kick off the season with success at the Montana State Spring Rodeo and move forward with that momentum as the year continues.

The takeaway

Detton's journey showcases the dedication and development of a talented student-athlete who has the opportunity to cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats in Montana State's storied rodeo program.