This weekend is team tryouts for freshmen and transfers. In previous years all students have been required to try out for teams the exception being riders that competed at intercollegiate nationals in the previous year. This year the intercollegiate coaches Duda, Dwelle and Wennburg decided that last year’s team members did not have to try out for the IHSA hunter seat and western and IDA teams. This puts pressure on new students to fill the available slots on these three teams.
Another change for this year that the coaches felt was important for making the intercollegiate teams more competitive is that students may only compete on one intercollegiate team. The coaches agreed that riders need to focus on the competitive discipline of their choice. Riders are encouraged to ride in other disciplines during their lessons to broaden their horsemanship skills but competitively the coaches expect a single minded focus.
Support for team mates, excellent horsemanship, and a true understanding of the requirements of a sport are key for competitive success. The coaches are looking for riders dedicated to their sport, that are thirsty for knowledge and are willing to study their chosen discipline as well as practice it.
Good luck to everyone trying out this weekend!
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