IEA Team
AVON VALLEY IEA
The Mission:
The mission of IEA is to introduce students in private and public middle and secondary schools (primarily ages 9 through 19) to equestrian sports.
The Purpose:
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 9 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. Students have the opportunity to earn scholarships toward their college education through awards in competition and through sportsmanship activities.
IEA Competition Format:
The unique aspect of the competitions, both at the local and national level, is that none of the riders will supply their own horses or tack. Instead, the host team arranges for the horses and equipment. Since the horse is new to the rider, the scores are based upon horsemanship and equitation. All disciplines offer a variety of ability levels from beginner through advanced. The IEA has set guidelines for the placement of new riders entering the IEA to allow for the unique program format of riding an unfamiliar horse.
Goals of IEA:
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.
To establish a foundation to support the continuing mission of the IEA.
IEA Background:
For student equestrians in grades 4-12, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) was established in the spring of 2002 and held its first annual national finals event the following year in Willoughby, Ohio. A non-profit organization, the IEA has grown both geometrically and geographically each year. Beginning with just 200 participants, the IEA now has over 13,500 members in 42 states across North America.
Who should ride on the AVSS IEA Team?
Any rider in grades 4-12 during the 2023-2024 school year. You do not need to own or lease your own horse to be a part of the team.
Who are the AVSS IEA Coaches?
Colette Andrews and Makenzi Paulso are the IEA Head Coaches for IEA but all AVSS staff take an active role. In addition, all AVSS Trainers take an active role as a part of the IEA team. Sarah Brzozowy serves as the IEA Team Manager and Secretary and manages all show entries, checks, schedules, and anything not riding specific.
What do interested riders need to do?
Talk to your current trainer and let them know you’re interested.
Take at least two lessons per week (preferably at least one group and one private lesson)
Go to rideiea.org and complete the rider membership form (all payments now have to be made online) The cost is $60 per rider for the entire season membership
Please have this done NO LATER than August 15, 2023
Please email your form to avonvalleyshowstablesoffice@gmail.com or bring a printed copy and give it to Sarah Brzozowy
Riders need to plan on riding in 5 IEA shows: (AVSS Home Shows are required)
October 28, 2023 (Avon Valley)
November 12, 2023 (Porter's)
How much does it cost to ride IEA?
Year membership is $70
Coaching is $100
Class entry is up to $60/class
What do I need to ride in an IEA show?
Tall boots (polished for shows)
Show jacket
Show shirt
Tan breeches
Black or brown belt
Hair tucked into helmets with a hairnet
Bows and braids for riders under 12
Jodhpurs and garters for riders under 12