Category Archives: Blog Reflections

Reflection of the HPCTL Graduate Certificate

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This year has been transformative, reflective and impactful.

I tell my riders when one door closes another one opens, you just have to be willing to find it and brave enough to open it.  As a well established coach and athlete in dressage sport, with experience that spans 30 years, and qualifying for the Pan American Games on my trajectory, I was motivated and focused.  So when my top competition horse was injured and I was no longer able to campaign him it was a heavy blow, and very disappointing.  I felt deflated, 6 years of careful, methodical training and preparation down the drain.  Logically, I know this is sport, and no matter how diligent you are in your training processes, horses still get hurt, but for some reason this hit me really hard.  Perhaps it was the realization that at this time in my life, the window to be competitive at the international level is shortened, due to the time and effort and physical toll it takes to develop a horse to the Grand Prix.  I was in the final phase of a multi-year plan, had my year strategically mapped out and then needed to completely change paths, regroup and set new goals.  I needed a challenge.  Being accepted into the High Performance and Technical Leadership program was the silver lining in the dark cloud, it was the focus and challenge I needed.

The HPCTL program formalized many of my coaching processes and provided a more in depth understanding of how other sport organizations function.  The insights and experiences shared by my cohort and the knowledge imparted to me by the professors provided me with innovative ideas, and inspired me to search for ways to make a difference in my own sport.  I realized immediately the value and impact that this program could have on my life and career.  I was again motivate and inspired.

The assignments challenged me to critically reflect and formally articulate who I was, who I am, and who I want to be as a coach and leader.  They required me to take inventory of the current state of dressage both provincially and nationally, identify gaps, assess strengths and weaknesses and develop action plans to influence change.

Through the program I redesigned my vision and core values, making a commitment to uphold and live them not only professionally, but personally as well.  I restated my endeavour to create safe, fun, and effective programs with a focus on teamwork and respect, promoting a continuum of learning, horsemanship, and sportsmanship.   I approach my coaching, training, competing and mentoring roles in alignment with my core STAIR values of Safety, Teamwork, Accountability, Integrity and Resilience, they consistently inform my decisions and guide my interactions.

“My vision is to serve as an ethical, knowledgeable and relevant resource for equestrian athletes and their equine partners to realize their full potential, and to exert a powerful, positive influence on the dressage industry in Canada”.

A building block in my coaching practice is valuing and respecting self, others, horses, and the rules of sport, as this contributes to more meaningful interactions and positive experiences in competition. I encourage riders to think critically and reflect on training sessions and competitive performances to improve problem solving skills, promote independence, and increase confidence in their abilities, building a mindset for continuous improvement.  I believe as coaches we have the platform and opportunity to create cohesive environments of trust, camaraderie, and sportsmanship through impactful, respectful interactions, which in turn, facilitate mentorship, guidance, and support both in sport and life.  It is a privilege to guide and impact others and we need to remain humble and vulnerable, while being strong and effective.  In my role as a coach developer, I encourage this mindset of humility and autonomy supported coaching in coach candidates as they work towards their certification goals.

The Leadership Practices Inventory and 360 Survey were valuable exercises, the results spurred me to ask for feedback from athletes and stakeholders, engage others through sharing my vision for the future, and collaborating to reach common goals.  The NCCP Coaching Competency Blogs challenged me to take inventory of my past and current coaching practices.  This process of reflection has increased my self awareness.  I am more purposeful and mindful in my interactions, recognizing the influence I have on others, while carefully considering how my decisions can contribute to more meaningful experiences, and affect our sport on a broader scale.

One of the highlights of the year was collaborating with CSI Pacific and Horse Council British Columbia to develop a Talent Identification criteria for dressage athletes.  This is a necessary stepping stone to support the development of more well-rounded athletes earlier in their competitive career, providing a solid foundation for continuation in sport towards high performance and potential national team selection. Further collaborations include working with Equestrian Canada on the development of their Gold Medal Profile and creating additional Professional Development courses for Horse Council BC.

Another program I am implementing this year is STAIRway to Horsemanship.  Aligning with my core values of STAIR I designed a horsemanship model to incorporate into my Fit To Ride Youth Dressage camp.  Currently, there is a lack of horsemanship understanding and training opportunities in our young riders and coach candidates.  Due to the importance of horsemanship both for horse well-being and successful competition, I feel strongly that this needs to be addressed.  With the STAIRway to Horsemanship model I seek to bridge this gap and implement it into future programs.

Inspired by the presentations and discussion of soft eye, I incorporated the use of camera sunglasses into some of my high performance athletes training sessions.  The goal was to improve accuracy of technical movements by developing awareness of focus points and eye line.  Due to the horse’s sensitivity to balance shifts in the rider’s body, the rider’s eye line directly affects the horse’s line of travel, which in turn affects performance accuracy and balance.  I am looking forward to using these more in the future and track the improvements.

Overall, this has been a productive, inspiring year, and I look forward to giving back to an industry that has provided me with so much throughout my career.  I’m grateful for the connections with my cohort, thank you all for your insight, feedback and sharing your experiences.  I admire each of you for the work that you do, and look forward to staying connected in the future.

Happy trails until we meet again!

Sandra

 

 

Blog # 5 Interacting

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March 2024

 

Blog #5 – Impactful Interactions in Sport and Life

Sandra Verda Zanatta

University of British Columbia

 

The impact of interaction in sport extends beyond the physical aspects of competition, encompassing relationships between athletes, coaches, fellow competitors and the unique horse and rider relationship.  Its value and contribution to the emotional, psychological and social growth of athletes needs to be recognized and fostered.  Coaches have the opportunity to create cohesive environments of trust, camaraderie and sportsmanship through impactful, respectful interactions; which in turn, facilitate mentorship, guidance and support in both sport and life.  In my experience, athletes who have mutual respect for fellow competitors, and exhibit sportsmanship, are able to elevate their performance, maintain a positive mindset, and have meaningful competition experiences even when results or outcomes are not optimal.

 

Learning to facilitate positive, productive interactions requires an increased level of self-awareness, regulation and emotional control.  I recognize through my own career and observations as a coach developer, that young coaches need more guidance, earlier, to cultivate leadership abilities, conflict resolution strategies and communication adeptness.  As a mentor, I encourage the development of these skills through educational opportunities and modelling.  If I can impart some of my experiences and encourage open, honest, face to face communication, it will help not only with the future challenges they may encounter in sport, but also in other aspects of their lives.

 

The ability to communicate effectively and respectfully even in difficult, high intensity situations is gained through experience, time and maturity; it requires thorough, honest self-reflection.  My coaching context requires me to constantly interact with a diverse population of athletes and parents, competition officials and boards of directors, sponsors and horse owners, lawyers and business professionals.  At times, difficult discussions are warranted, and when significant financial investments are made expectations to perform and win can be high.  As a result, riders often impose extra pressure on themselves to meet these expectations.  There is a delicate balance that needs to be maintained to shield athletes and facilitate continuity of training, allowing them to remain focused on, while also respecting and appreciating the opportunities that sponsors and horse owners provide.  Often, my job is to navigate both sides so we can produce optimal performance and maintain healthy, appropriate relationships.

 

Discussions with parents and athletes around competition readiness, or not, explaining the reasons for a poor performance, or informing coach candidates the reasons they have not met the requirements for certification, can spark tension, fuel emotions and be disappointing.  Although it is crucial to approach these conversations with empathy and kindness, honesty and clarity are also equally important.  Having a clear objective that promotes effective communication with a focus on the work or goal without personal references is important to a obtaining a productive outcome.  Being specific and clear about the areas needed for improvement, the requirements to move forward, and establishing a plan is a positive way to bring recognition to the issues or weaknesses and ultimately supports future success through a systematic approach for further training.

 

Equestrian sport requires another level self-awareness that directly relates to how we interact with our equine partners.  Horses are complex, sensitive beings and highly perceptive to body language and external stimuli.  Human movements and intentions can affect horses’ reactions significantly whether riding, handling or ground training.  We have the ability to affect their tension levels and response to stimuli based on how we react and the level of energy we exude.  Rider emotional control and self-regulation are key performance factors both in training and competition.  Horses are social, herd animals who respond to fellow horses’ energy and excitement.  The ability for a rider to maintain composure, stay focused and interact with their horse in a way that promotes confidence, trust and relaxation is crucial, making it an important component of daily training.

 

As I reflect on my career, I am grateful for the path coaching has taken me on, for the lifelong friends and colleagues I have gained and the amazing athletes I have had the honour to work with.  I am proud of my riders, their sport accomplishments representing Canada, and medals won, but ultimately the most important aspect has been my opportunity to create safe, supportive environments, enabling riders of all levels to grow, be challenged, develop confidence, and recognize their self-worth and that of others.  It has been rewarding to watch them succeed as athletes and become kind, responsible young adults with a high standard of integrity and respect for others, who love horses and advocate for their welfare.  I am honoured to have been a small part of their journey to who they are today.

 

Maya Angelou’s quote “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” resonates with me and I will continue with the goal of approaching all interactions both personal and professional with clarity, honesty and respect.

 

 

 

 

 

Blog # 4 part 2 Problem Solving Sandra Verda Zanatta

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Blog Post #4 Part 2

Jan 12, 2024

Sandra Verda Zanatta

I decided to write an addition to my initial Blog Post #4 on Problem Solving after our meeting Thursday.

When I decided to take the plunge and apply for the HPCTL program, it was initially due to my goal of qualifying for the Pan Am Games coming to an abrupt end when my top competition horse was injured.  I looked into the program previously, however, the timing did not work with my travel and competition schedule.  The window of time became available, and being accepted into the program turned disappointment and derailment of my 2023 YTP into an opportunity for growth and challenge.  I know without hesitation, that this is exactly what I am supposed to be doing right now.  The problem to solve was how to find the hours in my week to commit to the course, and so my YTP revamping started!

Having been out of school for 25+ years, and as I have mentioned, not having the strongest technical computer skills, I felt like a fish out of water!  It took a lot of extra time to learn programs correctly, I asked a lot of questions, used google extensively and called on some of you for help, I feel like I encountered a new problem everyday!  I can say without a doubt I have not only learned a great deal in our classes, but definitely about computers!

The past year was a time to shift gears and regroup, figuring out how I wanted to adjust my professional path and help facilitate changes necessary within Canada’s equestrian industry.  Across the board, we are facing significant challenges in rider and coach development, and producing high performance athletes with the ability to reach the podium.  Working through the assignments has inspired me to look for innovative strategies to affect change.  I recognize that as I present ideas, I will encounter resistance, so will need to be well-equipped and resilient, however, I believe that if logical pathways and potential solutions are brought forward, eventually, we can make positive steps towards the future.  Listening all of you, the issues and struggles within your sports, and the solutions you have come up with, has provided me with ideas for different approaches to address the ones I am currently facing.

A great problem solver is my mentor is Ronan Byrne of Stronger Mind Counselling.  Ronan holds his Masters in Clinical Counselling with a certification in trauma counselling.  He has 28 years in working in Correctional Service of Canada, has represented Canada in Triathlon, played professional Rugby and is a 5 x Ironman Triathlete.  Ronan has been a constant source of support, his guidance and input has been invaluable, providing an interesting perspective due to his diverse background.  He challenges me to consider different approaches, dig deeper and think outside the box.  We recently had an interesting meeting about the ability to problem solve under extreme stress and how to reign yourself back in, regain control and regulate your emotions so you can refocus and think critically. We discussed how anxiety is a key component required not only in sport but life, and it is healthy. The key is, can you relax and find solutions within it.  I appreciated his perspective about nerves, tension, anxiety and how they are often viewed as negative when in reality they are very necessary and it’s about how you regulate and put them to use to improve performance.  I gave a scenario using one of my athletes to brainstorm about potential strategies to improve her ability to regain emotional regulation quickly, within a competition setting.  Giving her tactics to be effective, plan for the next movement, and to improve the rest of the performance.  In general, teaching her how to regain composure and get back on track efficiently, a crucial skill in equestrian sport, as loss of focus, composure and regulation significantly affects human and horse athletic performance.

In closing, my journey in this course to date has exceeded my expectations, the camaraderie of our cohort, the guidance of the professors and the possibilities for the future have inspired and energized me.  Thanks to all of you, I hope you all achieve your personal and professional goals.

Blog #4 Problem Solving in Equestrian Sport

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December 28, 2023

Blog # 4 – Problem Solving in Equestrian Sport

Sandra Verda-Zanatta

Problem-solving in equestrian sport is an indispensable skill that coaches, trainers and riders must cultivate to ensure the safety and well-being of both horse and rider athletes, while promoting progress in training, leading to optimal performance in competitions.

My background in the therapeutic riding industry, and coaching para-equestrian athletes challenged me to develop my problem solving skills, improved my eye for identifying rider imbalance and asymmetry and provided me with a wealth of knowledge that I continue to use daily.

These skills were put to use extensively when I was scouting competitive dressage horses throughout Europe for riders with physical disabilities.  Training horses to accept adaptive equipment for a paraplegic rider with no use of her legs, or to handle the imbalance of a rider with a prosthetic leg, or to be less reactive to the spasticity in a rider’s limbs due to cerebral palsy, required clear, consistent repetition, careful analysis of horse reactions, and often experimentation and innovation to find the right training method.

In addition to horse training, it was necessary to help riders achieve the most effective, balanced position primarily for safety and comfort, as well as to achieve top performance.  Creativity and imagination were necessary to devise adaptive equipment that allowed riders to be secure, functional and effective.  With the expertise of saddle makers and input from athletes, I was able to design several unique, custom-made saddles to promote independence, freedom and safety, allowing riders to develop their skills and become accomplished equestrians competing at the top level of sport.  This process was tedious and often perplexing as we had to adapt the seat shape, depth and texture, thigh block size and position, adding hand holds, leg straps and stabilization stirrups. It was a creative process and we returned to the drawing board several times before we got it right.

Traveling to foreign countries with limited accessibility was often interesting and challenging! For instance, one adventure involved navigating down twenty steep, narrow stairs with one of my athletes in a wheelchair to a washroom in a Paris restaurant, only to find the doors too narrow to fit the wheelchair!  Keep in mind we had to go back up the twenty stairs too! This was just one of the many obstacles encountered and successfully conquered during our international adventures!

Fast forward 20+ years and problem solving is still a constant theme in my daily routine, whether it is caring for my horses, training or competing.  From figuring out the nutritional needs and correct shoeing techniques, to the exercise routines and environmental enrichment needs required for each horse to support their optimal mental and physical health, I am constantly evaluating and adapting their stable management and care plans.

In training, I consider several variables including the age, fitness, temperament, along with the physical and mental maturity of each horse to establish work load and rest requirements.  Topline muscle development, soundness and weight is evaluated and tracked regularly to identify and implement an effective, flexible, individual plan.

When pairing riders with horses, some of the factors considered are size, ability, temperament, training level, competition experience, movement quality and sensitivity.  Finding a suitable horse for a rider requires forethought and critical thinking, and even if you check all the boxes resulting in a compatible horse/rider combination you will still encounter speed bumps in training therefore, coach self-regulation and problem-solving skills are paramount in fostering a positive and effective partnership.

In my coaching role, I strive provide steady, solid leadership by regulating my own emotions, maintaining composure, and staying focused amid the challenges encountered in practice and competition.  I’m sure many of my fellow coaches can relate to the fact this can be difficult, especially when you are passionate about your sport and athletes!  As I reflect on my career as both an athlete and coach, I recognize the evolution that has taken place, as well as how much more there is to learn!

Being self-aware enables me to make sound decisions, communicate effectively, set high standards and be a positive example for my athletes and team members.  Staying focused and maintaining composure improves my ability to think critically, problem solve, and adapt strategies in crucial moments.  This is especially important because of the inherent high risk of equestrian sports, my decisions or directions to a rider can significantly affect the outcome of a dangerous situation or potential accident.  My athletes put their trust in me to safely challenge them and maintain composure under pressure allowing me to make strategic adjustments and navigate unforeseen obstacles that arise.

The partnership between a rider and horse is complex, demanding a clear understanding of the unique challenges during training or competition. Whether it’s addressing horse behavioral issues, refining rider techniques or navigating reactions to external stimuli or obstacles in and around the arena, effective problem-solving requires a combination of patience, empathy, and technical expertise. Innovative coaches who design practices to encourage independent thought and critical thinking, facilitate the development of problem solving-skills in their riders. I am committed to promoting these skills because they are essential, especially in competition where split second decisions have to be made by the rider without any external influence or coaching.

Riders must be attuned to their horse’s individual needs, employing a mindful approach to overcome challenges and enhance the overall harmony between rider and equine partner. Teaching riders how to anticipate and ride strategically to navigate potential problems is key, especially to set them up for competition success.  Once a rider is in the competition arena they are on their own, as a formal rule coaches can not intervene in any way, so riders must have the tools to deal with issues that may arise within their test. For example, if a horse becomes afraid or spooky at a certain spot in the arena there are specific techniques that can help reduce their reactions, so fewer marks are lost and composure can be regained for the next required movement.

Athlete self-regulation, problem-solving skills and ability to manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in the face of challenges and pressure are integral to competition success.  Their ability to maintain focus, stay composed under stress, and adapt to changing circumstances during competition is imperative to the partnership development and gaining horse’s confidence and trust.  These skills allow a rider to maintain a high level of performance regardless of external pressures, and turn setbacks into opportunities for growth. Together, these attributes create a resilient and adaptable athlete who can thrive in the dynamic and unpredictable nature of equestrian sport horses and competition.

I believe the combination of self-regulation and problem-solving creates a resilient and adaptable coaching approach, that fosters a positive, progressive learning environment, contributing not only to the development of skillful and confident riders but also to the welfare and contentment of the horses involved in these dynamic partnerships.

 

 

 

 

Blog #3 Critical Thinking & Yearly Training Plans

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Blog #3 Critical Thinking & Yearly Training Plans

Sandra Verda Zanatta

Yearly Training Plans have been an important component of my equestrian career as both a HP coach and athlete.  I have utilized YTP’s to guide my personal athletic development, the training and competition plans for my FEI horses, and my competitive riders’ paths to national and international competitions.  YTP’s provided the framework for progressive training plans within a cohesive team atmosphere.  For this blog, I decided to reflect on critical thinking and its role in the development of yearly training plans in equestrian sport.

Equestrian sport YTP cycles and preparation periods need to be well thought out.  Adaptability and flexibility to address the evolving needs of individual horses and riders and the combination as a “team” is a constant theme in daily training, competitions and yearly planning.  Sometimes horse and rider progression does not align, and we need to critically evaluate whether to take a step back or increase challenge and press on.  The affect of potential decisions on both athletes and whether they support desired long and short term goals, need to be carefully considered.

Coaches need to be critical thinkers when analyzing, observing and evaluating riders and horses in order to develop appropriate training and competition plans.  Due to the intricate partnership between horses and riders, there are numerous variables to consider as we develop plans and set short and long-term goals.  Strategic consideration and analysis of the individual strengths and weaknesses of each athlete, their fitness level, and temperament, while promoting mental and physical well-being, is key to setting realistic, measurable goals that align with desired outcomes.  Anticipating challenges, adjusting plans, and incorporating diverse training modalities are all aspects of how critical thinking is used in the development of equestrian YTP’s.  Equestrian coaches need to be open-minded, willing to adapt and change course as needed.

Horses mature at different rates, and all have varying responses to pressure and training.  Each ride requires analysis of soundness, gait regularity, fatigue and tension levels and adjustments need to be made throughout the session to address horse’s response to rider aids and chosen skill development exercises.  Training horses and riders requires constant evaluation of training methodologies, seeking innovative approaches to enhance specific skills or address areas that require improvement.  Open  communication between coach/rider is important to allow rider feedback on how the horse “feels” so coaches can provide strategies to improve skills and exercises that can help rider achieve desired “feel”or result.  Riding is kinesthetic and the most effective riders who train and compete through to the elite levels, have excellent body awareness, and an extraordinary ability to feel then adapt to the horse’s body and their response to subtle cues.

When evaluating a horse and rider team and their future potential or choosing horses for high performance sport, a critical eye is necessary.  We consider health, size, temperament, conformation, muscle development, quality of gaits, suppleness, and training history.  Comprehensive examination of these variables, as well energy levels, temperament and physical abilities of riders is required; the goal is to create successful, harmonious partnerships.

YTP planning also has to take into consideration travel and venue acclimatization for horses.  Critical thinking and strategic planning are important components to address potential problems and develop plans to reduce stress, supporting positive outcomes.  Horses have a flight instinct, weigh 1000 pounds plus, and are powerful athletes, so handlers, grooms, riders and assistants need to have appropriate skills to manage different horses’ temperaments and personalities, promoting safety in various environments, and decreasing risk.  Forethought and proactivity are important factors in our sport.

Athlete input is critical in the YTP process.  To facilitate critical thinking and brainstorming of innovative training ideas, I will often ask questions that start with:

  • How do you want to handle….
  • What are your ideas about dealing with these potential issues…..
  • What are the steps you think are relevant to creating “this” outcome…….
  • Based on our experience with this horse so far what can we anticipate upon arrival at show and during the 1st day of acclimatization and what is your plan?

This approach not only optimizes the potential for success in competitions but also fosters a healthy, progressive journey of improvement throughout the training year.  It creates an atmosphere of teamwork, trust, engagement, and accountability.  It teaches planning skills, promotes critical thinking, and empowers riders and other team members to be proactive, promoting confidence in their contribution to the process.

Over the years, I have used numerous YTP templates and feel that this one is the most comprehensive to date.  Throughout the planning process, I had several discussions with Sara (athlete) around the training and conditioning approaches for the horse and herself.  We reviewed past performances and the key issues encountered in competition.  Sara is a seasoned rider and fierce competitor but lacks the formality of a structured, focused YTP.  She has exceptional focus and resilience, however, needs more organization and prioritization to reach her long-term goal of qualifying for Pan Am trials. Her input to the YTP was valuable and she found that being involved in its development really challenged her to think about different aspects of her training and also her daily routines and habits.  Working with Sara in the Pilates cross-training program has provided valuable information regarding her physical strengths and weaknesses, allowing us to identify the root causes of postural issues and muscular asymmetries and incorporate strategies into the YTP to improve her riding effectiveness.

Awareness of rider mental well-being and recognition of triggers that cause challenges to self-regulation and emotional control requires critical thinking to devise plans to mitigate unwanted responses.  In competition, stress reactions are often significantly increased so thinking ahead and planning on part of both rider and coach are important.  Sara’s YTP has a significant focus on these factors.  Improving her ability to regulate and control intensity levels, developing relaxation techniques will be a focus throughout the upcoming season.

This coach/athlete partnership with Sara is fairly new and going through the YTP process together gave us both valuable insight into the strategies and techniques that may work for us as a team.  It further developed our relationship and understanding of each other and has strengthened our partnership for the future.

 

 

 

 

Blog #2 Reflections on Leadership and Personal Improvement Plan

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My equestrian leadership roles as coach, clinician, coach developer, committee chairperson and conference presenter have allowed me the opportunity to travel internationally and learn from some of the most renowned coaches, athletes and technical leaders in our sport.  As I work through the HPCTL program, I am continually inspired and humbled by the wealth of knowledge imparted to me by the professors and fellow cohort, and as my passion has always been to educate and inspire others, I appreciate the course information and tools gained to recognize where I can improve and elevate my coaching and leadership practices.

Studying Kouzes and Posner 2017, The Leadership Challenge, completing the self-assessment and LPI workbook, and reviewing the SLPI feedback provided valuable insight to my current leadership practices, and development of my Personal Improvement Plan. The clear guidelines resulted in a formal, educated inventory of my daily procedures, interactions and approaches to self-reflection. This process inspired a greater self-awareness and determination to strive towards excellence in leadership.  Guided by my core values of safety, teamwork, accountability, integrity, and resilience (STAIR), I will focus on the key practices of modelling, inspiring and enabling by setting a positive example of expected behaviour, taking action and encouraging others to share a vision for the future, creating a productive, cohesive team.

In planning ahead for future assignments, I will consider challenging the process in equestrian sport by exploring the need for renovation of our provincial competition pathways, talent identification, and coach education.  The implementation of criteria, and creation of pathways for riders and coaches are important links for promoting participation in competition, leading to the development of potential high performance athletes.  Encouraging sport for life, and the well-being of participants starts at the grass roots.  My goals are to share a vision of positive change for the future, engage coaches through ongoing education and support them in preparing their riders to follow a competition pathway.

The first small step to implement change is possible within my own dressage program, Fit To Ride (F2R). Developed in the 1990’s, my original idea was to bridge the gap between riders with and without disabilities and integrate athletes with disabilities into the mainstream horse industry, providing them with opportunities to compete at recognized competitions.  Equity and inclusion were primary considerations and as the program grew it encompassed many athlete profiles, from para equestrian riders training for high performance on the world stage, to young riders vying for spots to represent Canada at the North American Young Rider and Junior Championships, to adult amateurs competing locally and provincially and also coach candidates studying for certification.

Recently, working on the culture of excellence project, investigating current sport and leadership issues, I recognize the need for a culture of change in our industry to promote longevity and well-being in our sport, as well as the need to redirect the focus of my program back to young riders and coaches.  As a coach developer and certification evaluator it is evident that new coaches require more education and experience pertaining to fundamental riding, equitation and horsemanship skills in order to properly prepare riders and provide them with a solid foundation of skills.  This observation was reinforced during my research and interviews with colleagues, officials, coaches and other equestrian industry stakeholders. It solidified that providing education in the noted areas is the first stepping stone towards the development of well-rounded, capable equestrians who will support our industry in the future.

I look forward to future mentor meetings to discuss ideas and get feedback on ways I can improve and adjust my program and contribute to improving sport culture in the equestrian industry.

 

 

Blog #1 The Importance of Valuing in Equestrian Sport

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Blog Post 1

Sandra J Verda-Zanatta

HPCTL – UBC

The Importance of Valuing in Equestrian Sport

As I reflect on the first week of classes and meeting my cohort and professors, I am honoured, inspired and humbled by their depth of experience and expertise.  This is a time of personal and professional transition and I rely on my core values to guide my decisions.

When I consider the NCCP Coaching Competency of Valuing and its importance in equestrian sport I reflect on my core values, specifically, how they guide my coaching practices. I believe that respect and sportsmanship are values critical for valuing in all areas of sport.

Valuing Organization and Officials

In equestrian sport, valuing the roles of officials, organizers, coaches, sponsors, riders and volunteers shows respect for the discipline and structure of sport. Equestrian sports are high-risk due to variables encountered while working with high-powered, athletic horses with an instinctual flight response.  Adhering to rules and respecting safety procedures are essential to reduce risk and prevent accidents.  On another note, there is a level of entitlement that is periodically observed in equestrian sport. One of my program goals is to encourage an attitude of appreciation for opportunities provided and an understanding of why rules and regulations are in place.  This, is especially important for young riders entering sport.  Team meetings outline key rules and riders are reminded to conduct themselves in a respectful, sportsmanlike manner, thank organizers and volunteers, write thank you cards and post on social media.

Understanding and valuing the organizational structure of competitions is essential for coaches and athletes especially during high priority competitions where the environment is stressful, tensions are high. Expectations are addressed and a review of appropriate channels of communication in the event of an issue needing resolution. For example, after test rides a mandatory tack check is conducted by a Steward to ensure fair play and welfare of horses. Disqualification can occur if the equipment is not approved or if horse has sustained an injury. If a decision is appealed, certain protocol must be followed. Deviation from outlined process or disrespectful behaviour can result in further reprimand and restriction from future competitions.  Mistreatment of horses and use of unauthorized training tools observed in competition are not tolerated. Consequences are clearly outlined if observed at competition.

Valuing In The Training Environment

Dressage competition is primarily an individual sport. For this reason, there is a significant need in the training and competition environment to promote trust, teamwork, valuing efforts and respecting each horse/rider combination’s training path to success. I strive to ensure our daily training environment consists of respect and sportsmanship where riders feel safe to be challenged, make mistakes and problem solve.  I expect riders to support the diversity of fellow riders, treating everyone equally regardless of age, experience or success.  Taking an athlete-centered approach in training by valuing individuality of each horse/rider team is essential to their development.  Designing training plans around the needs of each combination helps coaches evaluate progress, build confidence, avoid burn out and ideally foster long-term participation in equestrian sport. Being a late specialization sport this is crucial for developing elite athletes towards high performance competition.  Additionally, creating a relationship of trust between coach/rider and rider/horse is a key element in achieving success especially as we are working with two athletes often with very different needs. Respecting and following Safe Sport practices, and creating a non-judgemental atmosphere builds trust and confidence in riders.

Riders are encouraged to support others by watching their tests. If we debrief as a group, each rider is to provide a positive comment about a fellow riders’ performance. In competition, regardless of the outcome of competition riders are expected to congratulate others and praise and appreciate their horses.  These actions support an environment of positivity, respect and sportsmanship, resulting in ambassadors for our sport through a shared passion for the human/horse partnership and love of equestrian sport.

In reflection of my current coaching practices, I will research additional strategies and exercises to facilitate mutual respect and appreciation amongst my riders to encourage valuing of each individual and what they contribute to the training and coaching environment.

Valuing Health and Welfare of the Horse

Valuing the health and welfare of our horses is a fundamental requirement for training and competing.  Horses are sentient beings.  It is our privilege to train and develop them as athletes. We have a responsibility to respect and nurture their characters and make sure their daily needs are met. Our horses are elite athletes and need to be cared for with the same standards as elite human athletes. To ensure the highest standards are maintained, we discuss their specific needs and develop a comprehensive plan that includes nutrition, veterinary care, cross-training, physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Developing trust with our horses is a vital part of the creation of a harmonious partnership – the ultimate goal in dressage. Riders must value this faithfully. It takes 6-10 years to train a horse to the FEI Grand Prix and without trust you can not effectively train and perform. Valuing the need for trust is necessary to create a long-lasting partnership.  As an example, when a horse is nervous they look to the rider for guidance and confidence, the rider is their leader. If there is a lack of trust the fright-flight-fight instinct will take over and performance will suffer.

Additionally, we are periodically faced with difficult decisions that affect competition plans and goals. For example, withdrawing from a high priority competition due to the physical needs of our horse.  Knowing our core values and letting them guide us, caring about the best interest of our partner and supporting his longevity in sport can help make the right decision and keep things in perspective.

Valuing Judges in Dressage

Dressage is a French word for training.  Dressage is systematic, progressive training and development of the horse to develop clear communication and create a harmonious partnership between the horse and rider.

The sport of dressage is judged.  There are specific requirements at each level designed to guide the mental and physical development of the horse and rider. Competitions consist of universal test patterns comprised of movements to be executed consecutively at specific arena markers.  Each movement is judged out of 10 and then averaged to a percentage. Collective marks evaluate rider posture, position and effectiveness. Riders are given a specific ride time, for example 9:34 am. the bell rings, you have 45 seconds to start your center line and salute the judge. Failure to do so results in elimination.  Valuing punctuality and being prepared is a key component in dressage, therefore the importance of preparedness and punctuality are focused on in daily training, supporting the values of responsibility, commitment, organization and time management.

There are standards, requirements and extensive judge training however, as in any judged sport, there is an element of subjectivity and human bias that filters in. As a result, judgement is common in dressage. The ability to accept critique and filter who’s opinions matter are difficult, but important skills to acquire as a competitor.  My equestrian career spans over 30 years, throughout which I have been witness to athletes, coaches and bystanders publicly engaging in negative dialogue about certain judges, blaming horse or making excuses due to external stimuli or environmental factors; in general exhibiting poor sportsmanship. This is especially common after a difficult performance or result.  It is imperative that coaches lead by example, demonstrating respect for the judge’s perspective and expect sportsmanship from all team members.

In instances where riders are disappointed with results or disagree with marks, I remind them, the judge provides feedback on today’s performance, judging what they observe in the moment. History, training details or recent obstacles are not relevant, they are judging based on set criteria.  To help riders reflect and deal with disappointment debriefs are crucial. They provide a safe place to voice concerns and feelings. I can provide input, identify learning opportunities and utilize relevant feedback to improve performance.  Turning a difficult performance into a learning opportunity builds mental strength, resilience and the ability to reframe negativity into something productive.

This scratches the surface of valuing in equestrian sport, its importance and how core values effect decisions and reactions we have to different situations. Through this reflection I am committed to providing more opportunities for riders to identify their core values and relate them to sport specific situations. I will also continue to reflect on my actions to ensure that I continue to model the respect and sportsmanship characteristics I expect in my riders.