The U.S. Hunter Jumper Association has created a new collegiate membership specifically designed for the riders and coaches of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association hunt seat teams.

The USHJA is the U.S. Equestrian Federation’s national affiliate for hunters and jumpers. For more than 40 years, the IHSA has been providing collegiate riders with the opportunity to compete individually or as teams in equestrian competition. Members of both national organizations are looking forward to the joint venture and are excited for what the future holds.

“IHSA coaches and riders represent an important demographic in our industry. We are looking forward to the opportunity to grow our membership, while providing educational opportunities to promising equestrians as they embark on their future,” said USHJA President Bill Moroney.

The USHJA will provide educational resources to IHSA coaches and competi-tors and support the organization’s championships and Intercollegiate Equestrian Foundation Scholarship Fund. As a membership partner of the USHJA, the IHSA will have a historical presence in the newly constructed USHJA museum.

In return, the USHJA hopes to broaden its outreach membership base and increase the popularity of outreach competitions through IHSA’s involvement. Outreach Competitions were created to provide showing opportunities for affiliate and grassroots members of the USHJA.

“I would like to thank the USHJA for recognizing student athletes as valued members of the equine community. We look forward to a long and beneficial relationship,” stated Bob Cacchione, founder and executive director of the IHSA.

Applications for each of the IHSA zones will be available in September for the 2010 competition year. All zones will be required to submit their affiliate application by Dec. 1, 2009. More information about the collegiate membership can be found on the USHJA website (www.ushja.org).