Since 2004, The University of Findlay's Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA) Team has qualified for the IDA Nationals both as a team and with individuals. The IDA team was first in the region in 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008 and 2007 and second in the Region in 2006 and 2005.  Our team finished fifth in 2011, fourth in 2010, tenth in the nation in 2009,eighth in 2008, fourth in 2007 and 2006, and seventh in 2005. 


We have approximately six regional shows each year along with Nationals. We encourage all members and parents to travel with us. Students learn teamwork, time management and how to be an effective rider who produces a winning ride in the dressage arena. It is not necessary to be an equine major to participate on the team. Many riders major in a variety of other degrees and compete on the team. The IDA team consists of an Introductory level rider, two Training level riders, and a First level rider.  

IDA Shows

IDA teams do not transport their own horses to competitions. The host school provides all horses for the show. The team captain, (the First level rider), participates in a "draw" to determine the team's group of four horses. The horses are then "paraded" while each coach assigns one of its riders to each horse in its group of horses. Riders then mount at their assigned time, receive 10 minutes to warm up and perform their dressage test for the judge.

Tryouts

Team tryouts are held during the beginning of September. You will need your show clothes and an ASTM approved helmet. A saddle, girth, saddle pads and bridle will be necessary for practice. Students may rent a tack locker (if available) for $50 a semester to store your equipment. You will try out on one of the University's school horses and will be assigned to an appropriate competition level.Practices Weekly practices are posted and are held in the early morning!
 
Cost/Expenses
 
Our IDA team is a school funded club sport. Therefore, travel and showing expenses are covered by the school.

For more information about IDA, visit the Intercollegiate Dressage Association website: www.teamdressage.com

2011 Team Members Participate in Spirit Day Activities at IDA Nationals




2010 Team Members Qualify for Nationals

At IDA 2010 National Championships, our team tied for second place, after the tie-breaking calculations were made, the team ended up in fourth place.


IDA National Championships 2009   The University of Findlay and our IDA team hosted the 2009 IDA National Championships on April 17 - 19, 2009.  For more information concerning this event, please read our web page.

During the 2009 IDA Nationals, our IDA team won the Team Sportsmanship Award.  On Sunday, during the Individual Competition, Ashley Parsons won the Upper Training Level competition. 

Coach: Janet Harms
Assistant Coach: Amanda Smith

2011-2012 Officers:
    Katherine Byrd
    Jillian Burkart
    Courtney Previte
    Monica Martineau