University of Ottawa Equestrian Team Rider Contract
Professionalism:
In order for the equestrian team to be as successful as possible, the team must present itself with the utmost professionalism. Professionalism is an expectation of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) and Ontario University Equestrian Association (OUEA), where the team competes, and of the facilities at which the team trains. All riders are expected to comport themselves in a professional and respectful manner at all times.
Professionalism includes punctuality. Riders are expected to be on time and organized with their fellow teammates for all team events, including horse shows, lessons and travel. Riders who sign this contract understand that there may be consequences to being late (such being excluded from a lesson/show).
Our University team has had the privilege of competing on the IHSA circuit within one of the most competitive regions in the United States. It is therefore of the utmost importance that the team maintains its positive reputation of good sportsmanship and respect for horses, other teams, coaches and riders. We have also recently had the opportunity to participate in the OUEA, which is a new circuit seeking to further develop collegiate equestrian sport in Canada; we thus have the responsibility of cementing a good reputation within the OUEA and setting a good example for this circuit’s development.
The team has a continuing tradition of training with top professionals in the sport, enabling the team to attain a very high level of success. In signing this contract, riders agree to demonstrate respect for their coach and their teammates.
Horse Use:
It is important to understand that horses at the horse shows you will attend are donated or offered by private owners to the host schools, to enable the continued success of the IHSA shows and OUEA shows in our region. As a rider on the uOttawa equestrian team you have the privilege of riding these horses. All riders who sign this contract agree to treat host school’s horses with the greatest respect.
Horses used for lessons are provided by Synergy Farms and other private owners; these horses are also expected to be treated with the utmost respect. All team members are accorded the privilege of riding these horses under the supervision of one of the country’s top trainers. All riders who sign this contract agree to ask questions to clarify any points of confusion regarding horse care at Synergy Farms; they also agree to follow all barn rules and protocols at Synergy Farms and to accord the staff and clientele of Synergy Farms with all due respect.
Attire:
Proper turnout is a core principle of the equitation ring and indicates respect for the sport, for our coaches and for our team. Proper attire must be worn at all team events including assessments, lessons and horse shows.
Proper show attire entails an approved black helmet with neatly worn hairnet, tan breeches, tall black field boots, dark show jacket (preferably navy), white long-sleeved blouse with collar, black gloves, and black/brown belt.
Proper lesson/assessment attire is identical to show attire with the exception of the jacket and blouse, which can be replaced with a fitted polo shirt tucked in to breeches, and a fitted sweater or jacket (without hood). Coloured breeches are permitted for schooling. Fitted clothing is required so that rider’s equitation can be properly evaluated.
Attire can be purchased at rider’s own expense or borrowed from team gear/other team members. Riders cannot rely on teammates lending attire or team gear if the arrangements have not been made well in advance. Keep in mind that clothing must fit properly. Jackets must not be too big/small or too long/short. Tall boots need to be tall enough to meet the very top of the rider’s leg. Hairnets must fitted properly with hair tucked up under the helmet and no pieces protruding (riders who are unfamiliar with the use of hairnets in the equitation style should ask a fellow team member for assistance.)
Horse Shows:
The uOttawa Competitive Equestrian team maintains a team membership in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association and the Ontario University Equestrian Association, and travels as a team several times a year to horse shows where the horses and equipment are provided by the host school. This contract is to alert you to the practice time and financial commitment necessary to be a member of this competitive team. Members must be 100% committed to the team.
Members must be available to attend all IHSA or OUEA shows for the 2015/2016season.
Logistics:
All riders are expected to attend scheduled lessons and horse shows that are covered by your player fee. All riders who sign this contract understand that there are no refunds for missed lessons or horse shows for any reason. All riders who sign this document are responsible for scheduling their commitments accordingly. Deadlines are to be respected in all circumstances.
Entries are determined by the team coach and are decided on based on a set of criteria including competitiveness, lesson attendance and other factors. All riders who sign this contract agree to respect the coach’s choices. If additional shows are attended by the team, spots are filled on a basis determined by the team coach (first come, first served and/or a need to fill a certain division).
The team coach is responsible for training riders and fielding the most competitive team possible. Other issues surrounding team’s functionality are the responsibilities of the team’s executive members. As a rider on the uOttawa equestrian team, you are represented by your team captain. Any issues that arise should be addressed to him or her.
Member and/or parents (if member is under 18 years of age) realize the risk associated with equestrian activities and agree not to hold coach, advisor, driver, or any other members and officers liable or responsible for any injuries or fatalities associated with the Equestrian Club and Team.
Refunds of player fees, travel costs, horse show expenses and training expenses are not granted under any circumstances.
In signing this document, I, ______agree to the above statements and understand that breach of this contract can result in consequences at the discretion of the coach and executive.
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