The Western descipline takes its history from the Old American West. Riders are classified as "team point riders" or "individual riders." Team riders are selected through try-outs held in the fall semester, while any rider can ride with the UCF Equestrian Team as an individual. To be a member of the Western team all riders must first be a member of the UCF Equestrian Club.

The UCF Western Team competes on the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) circuit. We are Zone 5 Region 3 members and compete with colleges and universities from South Carolina to Miami, Florida.

Western Team Recquirements

  Team
Dues
$40 in addition to club dues
Meetings
2 excused absenses with prior notification
Lessons
4 lessons per show/$40
Fundraisers
yet to be determined
Horseshows
Mandatory
Football Games
yet to be determined
Events/Benefits
Mandatory unless otherwise stated

What is the IHSA?

IHSA Stands for Intercollegiate Horse Show Association. The IHSA promotes competition for riders of all skill levels, who compete individually and as teams at regional, zone, and national levels. The Association was founded on the principle that any college student should be able to participate in horse shows, regardless of their financial status or riding level. The IHSA attempts to eliminate the expenses of students owning horses and allows more students to compete. Students ride horses that are furnished by the host college and chosen by drawing lots. The use of personal tack is not allowed and schooling is not permitted. The theory behind this structure is to equalize variables of the competition and test the horsemanship of the contestants. Classes range from walk/trot for first year students to the Open Division for the more experienced riders. IHSA offers 6 Levels of Western Riding from Beginner through Open/Reining.

To qualify to compete on the IHSA circuit. riders must meet the following requirements

  • Full time enrolled UCF Student or
  • UCF allumni that has competed on the IHSA circuit as an undergrad
  • Dues paying club member
  • Dues paying IHSA member

  How do I join?

If you are interested in joining the UCF Western Team the first step is to email the club account at ucfequestrian@hotmail.com. Your email will be forwarded to the Western captain who will then return your email promptly.

Lessons for Team Members

Contact information for team lessons are as follows …remember that the Saddler of Orlando and Stockman's Harness gives our members a 10% discount on all items.  If you are planning on taking lessons and/or showing, it is advised that you purchase paddock boots and a helmet to start off. We do require that active team members lesson four times prior to horse show.

Western Pleasure / Reining Lessons Beginner-Advanced
Najorka Performance Horses
(407)721-9711 - Ken Najorka