IHSA Celebrates Future Collegiate Riders at 10th YEDA National Championship

College-bound, future IHSA members were honored at the YEDA National Championship.
Photo courtesy of Kelli Wainscott

YEDA competitors are recognized as they transition to college riding programs.

Gladys, Va. June 8, 2026 — Board members of the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) recognized 16 competitors from the Youth Equestrian Development Association (YEDA) heading to colleges and universities offering IHSA programs in the fall of 2026. The recognition took place on the opening day welcome ceremony during the 10th YEDA National Championship at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, Virginia, June 5-7.

Mount Holyoke College Head Western Coach and IHSA Director at Large Kelli Wainscott addressed the honorees, speaking about the IHSA and the opportunities available to young equestrians at all levels during their college years. Many IHSA coaches were in attendance for the ceremony, welcoming the soon-to-be college students with welcome bags and college apparel.

“The IHSA is so proud of all of the YEDA national qualifiers here this weekend, and we are so excited for your future,” Wainscott said. “We encourage any student heading to college to look into collegiate riding. If your school doesn’t offer a team, you can start an IHSA team with just one rider. Please feel free to contact us with questions to help you get your team started.”

The IHSA has more than 350 colleges and universities offering equestrian programs.

“The IHSA would like to thank the founders of this phenomenal YEDA program and for their partnership with the IHSA,” Wainscott continued. “We are so impressed with the athletic ability of these riders and horses, and how supportive this environment is for youth. Please remember to thank your families, your coaches, and most of all, the horses for this incredible experience. Congratulations to all of you at the 10th YEDA National Championship. Enjoy every moment!”

IHSA coaches are available to provide guidance and assistance to student athletes exploring collegiate equestrian opportunities. Students and families with questions are encouraged to reach out to any IHSA coach or visit the website for more information. On the map feature on RideIHSA.org, you can find programs and coach contact information.

ABOUT YEDA
YEDA’s mission is to provide an equestrian riding program for youth students, via both instructional and experiential learning opportunities. YEDA produces equestrian competitions, instructional clinics, networking events and occasions for college recruitment that include but are not limited to scholarship disbursements.

The program that encourages the development of riders’ skills, emphasizes exposure to scholarship opportunities, and encourages making connections with college programs.

For more information, go to ShowYEDA.com.

ABOUT THE IHSA
The Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) welcomes all genders at all riding levels. The collegiate riding organization offers individual and team competition in hunter seat equitation, Western horsemanship, ranch riding and reining at more than 350 member colleges and universities. Membership in IHSA means that college students can participate in horse shows regardless of their experience or financial status. Students compete from beginner through advanced with suitable, provided horses, eliminating the expense of horse ownership.

Founded in 1967 by Bob Cacchione, it is the oldest and largest intercollegiate equestrian organization with more than 7,500 members in 47 states and Canada. IHSA college and university team participation is represented through a variety of programs, including varsity athletics, academic departments and club sports. IHSA offers valuable hands-on experience and professional development in multiple facets of the equine industry. Many IHSA teams participate in service projects, giving back to their communities. Through the IHSA, students enhance their college experience and develop the tools that help build successful careers.

For more information, go to RideIHSA.org or contact media@RideIHSA.org