The University of Findlay

Overview:
The University of Findlay's Western Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) Team is one of the top equestrian teams in the nation.

In 2001, The University of Findlay became the first school in the IHSA's history to win national championships in both the western and English disciplines. The western team captured championships again in 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2010.

Findlay continued its record-breaking streak in 2007 by scoring 20 points over the closest competitor, the largest margin in IHSA national's history. Also in 2007, Travis Womer became the first rider in the IHSA 40-year history to win Individual Titles in western and English disciplines.

Findlay continued its winning streak in 2009 at Nationals in Murfreesboro, Tenn. and in 2010 at Nationals in Lexington, KY. UF rode for a total of 31 team points, 10 points over the nearest competing western team, The Ohio State University.

The University of Findlay is the first IHSA school to have High-Point riders four years in a row:

Jake Bowman (2005),
Travis Womer (2006-also the first High-Point rider to win both the open and reining classes),
Trevor Dare (2007) and
Katie Morehead (2008).

The coaches, instructors and staff are dedicated and proud of the intense equestrian programs that help develop the most accomplished inter-collegiate riders. Students learn teamwork, time management and how to be a successful rider. Although participation in the IHSA requires hard work and commitment, there are many rewards.

Shows:
The host college provides all horses, tack and equipment. Riders are judged on horsemanship. In addition to semi-finals and nationals, there are approximately eight qualifying shows per year. All qualifying shows are double-headers: one show in the morning and one show in the afternoon on the same day.

2012 Schedule - Western:

Saturday, Jan. 28 At home
Saturday, Feb. 25 At Oberlin College
Sunday, Feb. 26 At home
Saturday, March 17 Regionals at home
Saturday, March 24 Semi-finals at home

Team:
Riders come from many different degree programs. Both the varsity and junior varsity riders work together and share the success of a well-rounded team.

Practices:
One practice per week is required. They are held Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., and Friday mornings from 6 to 7 a.m. Junior varsity riders practice after varsity on Monday and Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m.

Cost/Expenses:
Varsity team travel and show expenses are covered by the University. All who participate are required to provide their own approved show clothing.

Tryouts:

Mandatory informational meeting held the first week in September.

Tryouts held the second week in September.
A pre-participation physical is required of all who try out for the equestrian team. This must be completed prior to trying out.

IHSA Team Results:
The University of Findlay IHSA Team results may be viewed at the following link: Western IHSA Show Results.

Visit the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) website for more information.

Coaches:

Head Coach: Cindy Morehead
Assistant Coaches: Clark Bradley, Jake Bowman Junior Varsity Coach/Grad Asst: Adam D’Agostino

Student Varsity Officers:

Student President: Lisa Flaschberger
Student Vice President: Kim Deane
Secretary: Spencer Zimmerman
Show Managers: Molly Smith, Gabe Sasse, Jenny Roche