Collegiate Equestrian Teams: Lessons, Horses, and Competitions
Collegiate Equestrian Teams: Lessons, Horses, and Competitions
The world of collegiate equestrian is a unique blend of passion, dedication, and often self-reliance. Unlike many other NCAA sports, where most equipment is supplied by the university, equestrian teams often require a different approach, particularly concerning riding horses. This article explores the typical setup of collegiate equestrian teams, focusing on how horses are provided and the diverse organizational structures.
Collegiate Equestrian in Perspective
While the majority of NCAA sports have equipment and uniforms supplied by the university, this is not the case for collegiate equestrian teams. Instead, many schools have club teams participating in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA), which caters to athletes who may not own their own horses but still wish to compete and showcase their skills.
Flexible Participation through Club Teams
Club teams, which are more common in collegiate equestrian, offer a flexible and inclusive environment. These teams often participate in regional shows organized by the IHSA, providing opportunities for athletes to compete without the need to own a horse or extensive equestrian background.
Team Setup and Organization
At my school, the team organization closely mirrors a club team structure. Each member takes lessons with an off-campus coach, who is essentially an independent contractor working with the team. The arrangement is similar to hiring a private instructor, with students paying lesson fees as a group.
Role of the Off-Campus Coach
The off-campus coach plays a crucial role in the preparation and training of the team. These coaches, due to their independent contractor status, provide a personalized learning experience, which is essential for the growth and development of each rider. The coach is responsible for preparing riders for the variety of competitions they will face, from regional to national levels.
Show Participation and Logistics
During competition season, the team attends shows at schools in the surrounding area. Some schools have their own facilities, while others rent space or horses from large lesson barns or boarding schools. In these instances, the hosting venue is responsible for providing the competition horses, which are assigned through a random draw process.
Random Draw Assignments and Hosting Venues
These random draw assignments ensure fairness and maintain high standards for competition. The horses provided by the hosting venue are typically of a high level, ensuring that all riders have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their skills and compete at a high level. This approach also allows for a variety of experiences, as riders are often placed on horses they may not have ridden before.
Conclusion
The world of collegiate equestrian offers a distinct set of challenges and opportunities, balancing the need for dedicated practice with the realities of personal and unified team efforts. By leveraging the services of independent contractors like off-campus coaches and hosting venues, equestrian teams can thrive and showcase talent, contributing to the rich tapestry of collegiate athletic life.