Team FAQs
What is IHSA?
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 his or her financial status or riding level. Emphasis is on learning, sportsmanship and fun. Competition plays a role, but the students’ enthusiasm and team spirit are the major factors. The objective of IHSA competition is to offer the opportunity to riders in their first years of riding as well as to students with show experience. Eliminating the expense of shipping or even owning horses puts IHSA competitions within reach of many who would otherwise miss the equestrian experience.
Is showing experience necessary?
No! In order to do well as a team we need riders of all levels. Part of the goal of IHSA is to get students involved who have previously not had the ability or financial means to ride, so we encourage everyone to give it a try! Riders are placed in divisions with respect to their riding and showing experience.
Do I have to try out?
Although try outs are not required, you will have to participate in a placement ride so that your experience level can be assessed and so you can be placed in the proper division.
Do I need to be a full-time student?
Any Saint Vincent student may participate, however, those who are competing must be enrolled in 12 units or more at the time of the show. Students who are not full-time are still welcome to ride in practices.
What equestrian sports do we compete in?
We compete in hunter seat equitation on the flat and equitation over fences. All IHSA competitions are judged solely on the rider.
How much does it cost?
IHSA National dues are $30 annually. USHJA collegiate membership is $15 annually. The entry of each class is $40. Travel expenses are relatively cheap, especially when we are fortunate to receive Student Government Association funding to help cover some travel expenses. When we do stay overnight in a hotel, the cost of the hotel is divided equally among members. There is SVC team apparel available to purchase. Lastly there is the cost of the equipment you will need to show.
What about fundraising?
In the past we have had an annual raffle basket/dinner fundraiser in the fall. When we have one, every team member is expected to donate a basket to raffle off. Each team member is also required to sell 4 tickets to the dinner (or just pay the equal amount). There are also other fundraisers for team members throughout the year if the need arises.
What equipment will I need?
What you will need to show:
A black show helmet (Black helmet covers are only to be used in the Walk-Trot classes)
Black tall boots
Tan breeches
Hunter green show coat (The team has many available for members to borrow.)
Yellow rat-catcher shirt
Black gloves (Cloth for Walk-Trot, Leather for all other classes)
Equestrian hairnet
Boot Socks
Stock pin (if collar isn't embroidered)
Brown belt
Boot polish
Black shoe string (to tie your number on)
Black crop/bat (The team has one for use if you do not have your own.)
Why do we wear green and yellow?
Green and yellow are the athletic colors of Saint Vincent College.
Can I bring my own horse?
We do not have boarding facilities at Doubletree Farms. There are several boarding facilities near campus where you can keep your horse while attending Saint Vincent College. Since horses are assigned at random at shows, team members will being riding a large variety of horses in lessons to better prepare them for shows.
What is the commitment for a team member?
As well as being a team, the SVCET is also a school club. We participate in club meetings, homecoming, volunteering and more. As a team (and club) member, you are expected to help out with fundraising efforts.
Team practice is required if you want to show. Due to the popularity of the team, missing an excessive number of practices is unacceptable. We practice Friday afternoons. We will occasionally ride on other days if the weather prevented us from riding on Friday.
Attendance at meetings is required (except in extenuating circumstances). Meetings are at the beginning of each semester on campus. There is also an end-of-the year meeting in April. There may be additional meetings if the need arises.
Team members are also required to attend team workouts once a week after we stop riding because of the weather. This is to help keep you fit during the "off-season".
How does the team travel to horse shows?
The entire team of competing riders travels to and from the horse shows together. Riders are not permitted to leave before the show is over. We travel together in the college’s van, or a team member's car (depending on the number of riders competing and the destination).
Who do we show against?
We compete in IHSA Zone 6 Region 5
Allegheny College
Bethany College (WV)
California University of Pennsylvania
Clarion University - Venango Campus
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Mercyhurst College
Penn State University - Behrend Campus
Seton Hill University
Slippery Rock University
University of Pittsburgh
Washington and Jefferson College
West Virginia University
What are the competitions like?
IHSA Horse Shows are comprised of "meets," with all teams of a region invited to compete against each other simultaneously. Competitions are usually one or two days on the weekend.
You will arrive at the show early with the rest of the team and you will register with the host college. Because you do not ride your own horse, a horse you do not know and cannot ride before your class will be assigned to you. You cannot use your own tack, but you may use a bat or crop if the horse's description allows. The team captain then watches the horse draw to find your horse and its description, and your order of go if you are jumping. If you are lucky, you can watch your horse in classes before you go. When your class comes up, you must be dressed and ready to ride. A few minutes before the class starts, the show stewards will allow you to mount, with the help of a mounting block or a "leg-up". DO NOT adjust your horse's tack if it is loose or needs to be fixed - The coach must get a steward's approval first. You can adjust your stirrups. Once you enter the ring be ready to show. After your class, you must bring your horse out and return him or her to a member of the host college.
Do you ride your own team's horses in competitions?
No, the host school typically provides the horses. In accordance with IHSA rules, riders draw at random and are not allowed any time to warm up before entering the ring. This is intended to make it a level playing field for all riders, as they will all be mounted on unfamiliar horses. Judging is primarily based on the rider’s abilities, as it is understood that not all the horses are show-quality.
What are the levels of competition?
Class 1 Walk-Trot Hunter Seat Equitation
Class 2 Walk-Trot-Canter Hunter Seat Equitation
Class 2A Beginning Walk-Trot-Canter
Class 2B Walk-Trot-Canter
Class 3 Novice Hunter Seat Equitation on the Flat
Class 4 Novice Hunter Seat Equitation over Fences
Class 5 Intermediate Hunter Seat Equitation on the Flat
Class 6 Intermediate Hunter Seat Equitation over Fences
Class 7 Open Hunter Seat Equitation on the Flat
Class 8 Open Hunter Seat Equitation over Fences
Class 9 Alumni Equitation on the Flat
Class 10 Alumni Equitation over Fences
How do I know which level I am?
Click here to see a brief description of each level.
Click here to take a quick quiz to see where you MAY be placed. Dr. Ent has the final say on rider placements.
How do riders qualify for Regionals, Zones, and Nationals?
Riders accumulate points at the various shows throughout the year. These points are assigned based on places in a class. After 36 points, the rider "points up" to the next division. By pointing up to the next level, the rider qualifies for Regionals.
A rider in class 2A only needs 18 points to move up to 2B. Points from 2A are carried over to 2B. A rider only qualifies for Class 2 Regionals after earning 36 points total (either from combining both 2A & 2B or from just 2B).
At Regionals, the top two riders from each class qualify for Zones. Then, at Zones the top two riders from each class compete at Nationals. All three of these shows (Regionals, Zones, and Nationals) take place at the end of the spring semester.
1st= 7 points
2nd= 5 points
3rd= 4 points
4th= 3 points
5th= 2 points
6th= 1 point
Is being on the Team worth all of the time and effort?
Absolutely YES! Being involved in the equestrian team not only greatly improves your riding, but also it makes you an overall better horse person. One of the best parts of being on the team is that it allows you to meet so many new people. Spending so much time with your teammates really allows for lasting friendships to form.
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 his or her financial status or riding level. Emphasis is on learning, sportsmanship and fun. Competition plays a role, but the students’ enthusiasm and team spirit are the major factors. The objective of IHSA competition is to offer the opportunity to riders in their first years of riding as well as to students with show experience. Eliminating the expense of shipping or even owning horses puts IHSA competitions within reach of many who would otherwise miss the equestrian experience.
Is showing experience necessary?
No! In order to do well as a team we need riders of all levels. Part of the goal of IHSA is to get students involved who have previously not had the ability or financial means to ride, so we encourage everyone to give it a try! Riders are placed in divisions with respect to their riding and showing experience.
Do I have to try out?
Although try outs are not required, you will have to participate in a placement ride so that your experience level can be assessed and so you can be placed in the proper division.
Do I need to be a full-time student?
Any Saint Vincent student may participate, however, those who are competing must be enrolled in 12 units or more at the time of the show. Students who are not full-time are still welcome to ride in practices.
What equestrian sports do we compete in?
We compete in hunter seat equitation on the flat and equitation over fences. All IHSA competitions are judged solely on the rider.
How much does it cost?
IHSA National dues are $30 annually. USHJA collegiate membership is $15 annually. The entry of each class is $40. Travel expenses are relatively cheap, especially when we are fortunate to receive Student Government Association funding to help cover some travel expenses. When we do stay overnight in a hotel, the cost of the hotel is divided equally among members. There is SVC team apparel available to purchase. Lastly there is the cost of the equipment you will need to show.
What about fundraising?
In the past we have had an annual raffle basket/dinner fundraiser in the fall. When we have one, every team member is expected to donate a basket to raffle off. Each team member is also required to sell 4 tickets to the dinner (or just pay the equal amount). There are also other fundraisers for team members throughout the year if the need arises.
What equipment will I need?
What you will need to show:
A black show helmet (Black helmet covers are only to be used in the Walk-Trot classes)
Black tall boots
Tan breeches
Hunter green show coat (The team has many available for members to borrow.)
Yellow rat-catcher shirt
Black gloves (Cloth for Walk-Trot, Leather for all other classes)
Equestrian hairnet
Boot Socks
Stock pin (if collar isn't embroidered)
Brown belt
Boot polish
Black shoe string (to tie your number on)
Black crop/bat (The team has one for use if you do not have your own.)
Why do we wear green and yellow?
Green and yellow are the athletic colors of Saint Vincent College.
Can I bring my own horse?
We do not have boarding facilities at Doubletree Farms. There are several boarding facilities near campus where you can keep your horse while attending Saint Vincent College. Since horses are assigned at random at shows, team members will being riding a large variety of horses in lessons to better prepare them for shows.
What is the commitment for a team member?
As well as being a team, the SVCET is also a school club. We participate in club meetings, homecoming, volunteering and more. As a team (and club) member, you are expected to help out with fundraising efforts.
Team practice is required if you want to show. Due to the popularity of the team, missing an excessive number of practices is unacceptable. We practice Friday afternoons. We will occasionally ride on other days if the weather prevented us from riding on Friday.
Attendance at meetings is required (except in extenuating circumstances). Meetings are at the beginning of each semester on campus. There is also an end-of-the year meeting in April. There may be additional meetings if the need arises.
Team members are also required to attend team workouts once a week after we stop riding because of the weather. This is to help keep you fit during the "off-season".
How does the team travel to horse shows?
The entire team of competing riders travels to and from the horse shows together. Riders are not permitted to leave before the show is over. We travel together in the college’s van, or a team member's car (depending on the number of riders competing and the destination).
Who do we show against?
We compete in IHSA Zone 6 Region 5
Allegheny College
Bethany College (WV)
California University of Pennsylvania
Clarion University - Venango Campus
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Mercyhurst College
Penn State University - Behrend Campus
Seton Hill University
Slippery Rock University
University of Pittsburgh
Washington and Jefferson College
West Virginia University
What are the competitions like?
IHSA Horse Shows are comprised of "meets," with all teams of a region invited to compete against each other simultaneously. Competitions are usually one or two days on the weekend.
You will arrive at the show early with the rest of the team and you will register with the host college. Because you do not ride your own horse, a horse you do not know and cannot ride before your class will be assigned to you. You cannot use your own tack, but you may use a bat or crop if the horse's description allows. The team captain then watches the horse draw to find your horse and its description, and your order of go if you are jumping. If you are lucky, you can watch your horse in classes before you go. When your class comes up, you must be dressed and ready to ride. A few minutes before the class starts, the show stewards will allow you to mount, with the help of a mounting block or a "leg-up". DO NOT adjust your horse's tack if it is loose or needs to be fixed - The coach must get a steward's approval first. You can adjust your stirrups. Once you enter the ring be ready to show. After your class, you must bring your horse out and return him or her to a member of the host college.
Do you ride your own team's horses in competitions?
No, the host school typically provides the horses. In accordance with IHSA rules, riders draw at random and are not allowed any time to warm up before entering the ring. This is intended to make it a level playing field for all riders, as they will all be mounted on unfamiliar horses. Judging is primarily based on the rider’s abilities, as it is understood that not all the horses are show-quality.
What are the levels of competition?
Class 1 Walk-Trot Hunter Seat Equitation
Class 2 Walk-Trot-Canter Hunter Seat Equitation
Class 2A Beginning Walk-Trot-Canter
Class 2B Walk-Trot-Canter
Class 3 Novice Hunter Seat Equitation on the Flat
Class 4 Novice Hunter Seat Equitation over Fences
Class 5 Intermediate Hunter Seat Equitation on the Flat
Class 6 Intermediate Hunter Seat Equitation over Fences
Class 7 Open Hunter Seat Equitation on the Flat
Class 8 Open Hunter Seat Equitation over Fences
Class 9 Alumni Equitation on the Flat
Class 10 Alumni Equitation over Fences
How do I know which level I am?
Click here to see a brief description of each level.
Click here to take a quick quiz to see where you MAY be placed. Dr. Ent has the final say on rider placements.
How do riders qualify for Regionals, Zones, and Nationals?
Riders accumulate points at the various shows throughout the year. These points are assigned based on places in a class. After 36 points, the rider "points up" to the next division. By pointing up to the next level, the rider qualifies for Regionals.
A rider in class 2A only needs 18 points to move up to 2B. Points from 2A are carried over to 2B. A rider only qualifies for Class 2 Regionals after earning 36 points total (either from combining both 2A & 2B or from just 2B).
At Regionals, the top two riders from each class qualify for Zones. Then, at Zones the top two riders from each class compete at Nationals. All three of these shows (Regionals, Zones, and Nationals) take place at the end of the spring semester.
1st= 7 points
2nd= 5 points
3rd= 4 points
4th= 3 points
5th= 2 points
6th= 1 point
Is being on the Team worth all of the time and effort?
Absolutely YES! Being involved in the equestrian team not only greatly improves your riding, but also it makes you an overall better horse person. One of the best parts of being on the team is that it allows you to meet so many new people. Spending so much time with your teammates really allows for lasting friendships to form.
