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Training >

Squads

PCASA Rider Development Program

Zone Squads:

As the name suggests these squads are at Zone level and it will be the responsibility of each zone to conduct their own squad training.

• All state appointed coaches will be available to coach at these trainings it will however be the responsibility of the zone to liaise with the coaches for their specific requirements.
• It is recommended that each zone have a co-ordinator that could organize this. Zone may use their own coaches but it would be advantageous for these coaches to liaise with the state coaches so that there is a continuity of instruction and the aims of the squads are met.
• It would be anticipated that these squads would run at least 2-3 times per year.
• Riders at this level who have not yet obtained their ‘C’ certificate should be actively encouraged to do so.

Zone Squads:

The aim of this squad is to develop the skills of riders working towards competing at National Championship Level. The State Team for the National Championships will come from this Squad.

Coaches:

To be advised

Riders can nominate to attend Zone Squad training after meeting set criteria.

• Squad members are expected to be committed to the Pony Club ethos and abide by the Pony Club codes of conduct, especially as they will be ambassadors for the PCASA when competing at Nationals.
• Riders eligible for consideration must submit a Zone application. Riders may also be nominated for selection by their clubs, zone &/or coaches.
• Parents should sign the Zone Squad Appliaction form, as there is a considerable commitment required. (Forms on web under documents-then applications)
• It is expected that training will occur every 3 months, becoming more frequent closer to the Nationals.
• Squads will be revised every 6 months – allowing for riders to move in and out of the squad as deemed necessary.
• Positions on the squads should be seen as a privilege and a goal pony clubbers should be working towards. There-by encouraging especially older riders to remain in pony club.
• Squad training will provide training by highly qualified coaches working towards the National competition – It is therefore assumed that anyone nominating for the State Squad is prepared to travel to the National Championship if selected for the team.
• Riders can nominate for any or all disciplines.
• Continuity of coaching will give riders the opportunity to obtain information on a personal level from coaches.
• Riders will work within a team environment and are expected to be committed to attending training squads.
• It is the aim of the squad to not only develop riding skills but to also develop skills of horsemanship, sports psychology, nutrition, Veterinary etc.

Criteria

Riders:

• Riders of a standard (4 and D) to be able to join squads.  If a rider is working towards and close to completing their ‘C’ certificate please contact corodinators to advise them of your status re certificates.
• must be committed Pony Club Members.
• should be at least 14 years of age.
• should be competitive at:-
  • 90cm or above for Showjumping Squad
  • Grade 2 or above for Eventing Squad
  • Consistently gaining 55% or higher at Novice level dressage.
• must be prepared to join the EA - Due to the limited opportunities to compete in some disciplines in Pony Club competition, it may be necessary to join the EA and compete at EA events.
• Aiming for National Selection, prepared to travel and meet expenses if selected.
• Prepared to attend training camps.
• must remain in communication with coaches, Zone and squad coordinator between trainings. Positions in the squad are largely based on performance so it is vital that you keep your coaches informed.
• must remain competitive between trainings & attend competitions/clinics, etc recommended by coaches.

Nominations must be sent in on application form (found in documents under Applications) to Zone Secretary.