Drill Team

We are excited to explore the possibility of forming our own Horse Project Drill Team and are looking to gauge interest among our members! Click the link for the Guide on How to Build a Drill Team.

A drill team is an excellent opportunity for riders to perform choreographed movements in unison, set to music. It’s an exciting way to showcase your horsemanship skills while developing crucial life skills.

Based on the information about the Minnesota 4-H Drill Team Competition, participating offers fantastic benefits, including:

• Leadership and Teamwork: Drill teams are all about synchronizing with other riders, which builds strong team cohesion and collaborative skills.

• Advanced Riding Skills: Members learn coordination, timing, speed, and precision—key elements for any successful horse and rider partnership.

• Creativity: Routines encourage variety and creativity in both maneuvers and team dress.

You can find detailed information about all that Drill Team entails by visiting the State website: https://extension.umn.edu/4-h-horse-project/minnesota-4-h-drill-team-competition

 Competition Eligibility & Timeline

Please note the required commitment and competition rules:

• Competition Eligibility: Per recent state rules, youth in grades 6 and up only are eligible to compete at the Minnesota 4-H State Drill Competition. Younger members (e.g., grades 3-5) are welcome to practice and participate non-competitively if the team forms.

• State Competition Route: Based on 2025 rules, there were no regional qualifiers, meaning the team would compete directly at the State Drill Competition.

• Minimum Requirement: We must have at least four confirmed participants to move forward with forming the team.

• Weekly Practices: Practices will begin weekly in January and will be in-person. 

• Phase 1 (On Foot): We will start by practicing on foot without horses to learn the movements, formations, and timing.

• Phase 2 (Mounted): Horses will be incorporated into the practices once the team demonstrates mastery of the routine on foot.

Next Steps: Show Your Interest!

If you or your child are interested in committing to these weekly practices and being part of this new venture, please email sherburne4horse@gmail.com by Friday, January 2nd and let us know:

1. Your rider's name and grade.

2. Why you are interested in joining the drill team.

3. Any preferred practice days/times (e.g., weekday evenings, weekend mornings).

If we meet the minimum requirement of four interested participants, we will compile the responses and discuss the formation of the team at the January 5th regular meeting.

We look forward to hearing from you and potentially starting this dynamic new project!