SeaHorse Stables IEA Team
The MISSION of IEA is to introduce students in private and public middle and secondary schools to equestrian sports and to promote and improve the quality of equestrian competition and instruction. The IEA PURPOSE is to set minimum standards for competition, provide information concerning the creation and development of school associated equestrian sport programs, promote the common interests of safe riding instruction and competition and education on matters related to equestrian sport at the middle and secondary school levels (primarily ages 11 through 19). To fulfill its purpose, the IEA offers guidance regarding the creation and development of school and/or barn associated equestrian programs. IEA coaches aim to develop understanding and appreciation of equestrian sports through organized student competitions and additional equine educational opportunities. Through the IEA, students have the opportunity to earn scholarships towards their college education through awards in competition and through sportsmanship activities.
IEA is a unique way for avid equestrians to compete in a team format while not needing to own their own horse. The SeaHorse Stables IEA Team is for Middle School (grades 6-8) and High School (grades 9-12) students who qualify. All team members must try out before they can join the team.
In order to participate in SeaHorse’s IEA team, riders must be enrolled in at least one group lesson per week.
IEA Competition Format
The unique aspect of these competitions, both at the local and national level, is that none of the riders will supply their own horses or tack. Instead, the horses, saddle and other tack are provided to the students at the show. The host team arranges for the horses and equipment. Some of the equipment may be borrowed from various training barns and facilities. Though the rider and horse have a short opportunity at orientation in the over fences classes, essentially, the horse is new to the rider, and the scores are based upon horsemanship and equitation, not the horse. The competitions involve six classes jumping over fences no greater than three feet and numerous flat equitation classes. All disciplines offer a variety of ability levels from beginner through advanced.
IEA Goals:
- To encourage recognition for middle and secondary school equestrians and to promote the equestrian as an athlete.
- To provide riders with organized competitive opportunities.
- To introduce new riders to equine sports.
- To promote the IEA among its constituencies.
- To provide riders with opportunities to further their education in equine sports and equine-related matters.
- To encourage liaison with other equestrian associations for the betterment of equestrian sports.
- To encourage a higher standard of coaching and instruction.
- To provide information concerning the creation and development of mounted and non-mounted equestrian programs.
- To establish and enforce IEA rules, standards and policies.
- To keep pace with the continuing progress of equestrian sports and to encourage good horsemanship.
- To generally promote the common interests of riding instruction and competition, and education on matters related to all segments of the horse industry.
- To develop team and individual sportsmanship.
IEA Coach: Rebecca Chernin
For more information about SeaHorse’s IEA team, contact 207-218-1520