MIDDLETOWN, Ind. – There is an abundance of equestrian riding programs across the country, but not many of them offer broad opportunities for the first-time rider. And fewer offer competition to those who don’t own a horse.

The Youth Equestrian Development Association (YEDA) was founded by four horse enthusiasts. The foursome developed this structured, team-based program that emphasizes horsemanship, sportsmanship and personal growth. Today, the program is a pipeline into the equine industry across Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Kentucky and 20 other states.

“The favorite thing about YEDA is seeing riders that do not own horses have the opportunity to fulfill a dream,” said Debbie Arnold, one of the four founders who has been a quarter horse trainer for more than 40 years. “These riders learn to work together, work hard, take on leadership roles and make decisions. They learn that winning isn’t the end goal and that learning to do their best is important, accepting victory and defeat with a grateful heart.”

The YEDA movement has taken root in 25 states and each team in each state is headed up by highly experienced equestrians.

“Across Indiana and across the country, where agriculture remains the backbone of local communities, YEDA has created a new pathway into the equine and agricultural industries,” said Stephanie Huffman-Wilson, founder and CEO of Bridlewood Crossings, an equestrian learning community in east central Indiana where she works with riders, families and communities to develop confidence, communication and life skills through the horse.

Huffman-Wilson also serves as a coach within YEDA and as director of outreach and communications for the organization, leading national visibility and engagement efforts.

Huffman-Wilson is a lifelong equestrian and passionate educator with decades of experience in both the horse industry and higher education. She grew up managing her family’s performance horse operation, helping youth riders achieve state and national honors.

She served as associate dean of equine studies at Lake Erie College, where she launched a degree in equine entrepreneurship and coached a semi-national championship IHSA Western Rider. Today, she’s entrenched in getting young people engaged in horsemanship in YEDA.

YEDA promotes Western, catch-draw style riding, giving youth in grades 4-12 (and young alumni), and equestrians with disabilities from age 10 through adult, giving them the chance to compete even if they don’t own a horse.

Each team has a coach and has a minimum of three riders per team. Competition is divided into elementary school, junior high, senior high, equestrian with disabilities and alumni division.

YEDA’s unique point system counts only a rider’s top six scores from a 12-show limit, making national qualification more accessible. In less populated regions, top individuals can qualify through state invitations held before nationals.

Now in its 10th season, YEDA includes 61 teams, nearly 1,000 members (including international riders) and has awarded more than $1.6 million in scholarships. The season concludes at the 10th Annual National Championship, June 4-7 at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, Va.

“This year’s event in Virginia not only marks a major milestone for the organization, but also highlights the strength of the youth pipeline into the performance horse industry,” Huffman-Wilson said.

Keith Ceddia, of Centerburg, Ohio, coaches Buckeye Riders, one of the 25 YEDA teams in the state.

“The most fun about this horse organization is working with all the kids and getting them to all the horse shows,” Ceddia said. “As a coach it’s a good way to build relationships and a nice way to earn a second income.”

Alyssa Freitas, of AF Horse Shows in East Hampton, Conn., enjoys working with first timers and those new to YEDA. Hers is one of four teams in Connecticut.

“Our YEDA team offers a lot of new opportunities for those who don’t own their own horse yet can still compete, and this allows them to travel to the larger horse shows. It also offers the riders the chance to obtain scholarships and eventually compete in college.”

YEDA is not only good for horse enthusiasts but a boon for the economy. According to Huffman-Wilson, YEDA participation generates roughly $400 to $1,200 per rider per month in local agricultural spending (lessons, feed, farrier and veterinary services). Lesson barns, boarding operations and small farms benefit from the consistent income streams tied to this youth participation.

“In addition, many riders are entering agriculture without a farming background, gaining hands-on experience with livestock, responsibility and land stewardship,” Huffman-Wilson said.

For more information about YEDA, contact Stephanie Huffman-Wilson at 765-591-3314 or go to https://bridlewoodcrossings.com