The SEDA Junior Director is Danielle Aymond.
Find out about the SEDA Junior Classic here
SEDA Youth Sportsmanship Award
The goal of the SEDA Good Sportsmanship Award is to recognize Junior/Young Rider exhibitors (competitors 25 and younger) who exhibit a degree of excellence and integrity by supporting their fellow competitors and volunteering their time and resources to various aspects of the organization and the broader equine industry. The nominee should be a Junior/Young Rider SEDA member who has exemplified “going above and beyond” the sportsmanship that is expected of all youth.
Traits of Good Sportsmanship
The following is a list of traits SEDA believes define good sportsmanship.
- COURAGE is having the determination to do the right thing even when others don’t; the strength to exhibit fairness, to be courteous, to gracefully accept the result of the contest, to attempt difficult things that are worthwhile.
- GOOD JUDGEMENT is choosing worthy goals; setting priorities in accordance with team, regional, national and international rules; leading others to follow these rules.
- INTEGRITY is having the inner strength to be fair and courteous during athletic events, to play according to the rules, acting positively and honorably not only to your team, but to your opponent.
- KINDNESS is being considerate, courteous, and generous in spirit to the opponent; showing care, compassion and friendship in victory or defeat; treating others as you would like to be treated.
- PERSEVERANCE is being persistent in pursuit of worthy objectives in spite of opposition, difficulty, injuries, handicaps or discouragement, and exhibiting patience and the fortitude to try again when confronted with mistakes or failures.
- RESPECT is showing high regard for coaches, officials, opponents, fans, administrators, self, team, horses and the region you are representing.
- RESPONSIBILITY is being dependable in carrying out obligations and duties, showing reliability and consistency in words and conduct, and being accountable for your actions.
- SELF-DISCIPLINE is demonstrating hard work and commitment to purpose, regulating yourself for improvement and refraining from inappropriate behaviors, maintaining self-control at all times, and doing your best in all situations.
Nominations for the award may come from any SEDA member. The nominee must be a member of SEDA and 25 years or younger and competing in either licensed or schooling events.
Nominations close December 1 and will be awarded at the SEDA Awards Banquet. Nominations should be sent to president@sedariders.org.
The nomination must include:
- Nominee’s name and birthday
- Nominee’s barn or trainer name (if applicable)
- Nominee’s contact info
- Nomination Person’s name and contact info
- Provide details on the following:
- Demonstrates an ongoing commitment and dedication to the promotion of SEDA and the broader equestrian sport.
- Serves as a positive role model for peers.
- Participates at any level of competition, including local, regional or national events.
- Exhibits characteristics that exemplify positive sportsmanship principles. Please provide a specific story or stories that exemplify this.
- Please provide as much information as possible why the individual is deserving of this award. Please send a photo if available
USDF Youth Volunteer of the Year Award
Do you know of a USDF youth member who deserves to be recognized for their volunteer service? USDF is looking for those youth members that not only put in that special effort with their horse but can be counted on to help others! Nominate them to win the USDF Youth Volunteer of the Year Award. For more information please click here.
USEF Youth Sportsman Award
The USEF Youth Sportsman Award was designed to develop leaders in the equine industry from all breeds and disciplines. USDF seeks nominees who demonstrate an ongoing commitment to both organizations through their promotion of the horse. Application deadline is Oct 1. Click here for complete details.
National Youth Dressage Programs Support Young Riders
The USDF has a variety of programs designed to support junior riders interested in dressage. SEDA supports participation by junior members in any of these programs and encourages all juniors to check out the USDF Youth Programs.
All our SEDA junior riders are encouraged to participate in these programs.

