MZ EQUESTRIAN IEA TEAMS 2026-2027
The Benefits of IEA
The MZ Equestrian IEA Team includes riders in Grades 4 through 12 from various high schools and middle schools across Orange and San Diego Counties, as well as Adult Amateurs aged 21 and older participating in our Adult IEA Program. This dynamic team competes in local equestrian competitions, aiming to qualify for the Regional, Zone, and National Finals.
The Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) offers a cost-effective and accessible opportunity for riders to engage in showing without the financial burdens of horse ownership or leasing. Joining the IEA Team is an essential step for riders looking to advance their riding careers beyond the recreational level of weekly lessons. For those who own or lease horses and engage in their own shows, participating in IEA adds significant value to your equestrian resume, especially if you aspire to ride for an IHSA or NCEA college team. It is also an excellent way to foster teamwork and forge lasting friendships within the barn community. Notably, both collegiate models are structured similarly to the draw-based format of IEA, allowing middle and high school riders to prepare for future opportunities.
The IEA system employs a draw-based approach to 'catch riding,' enabling athletes to compete on horses they may be riding for the first time, with minimal practice before entering the show ring. This format promotes a level playing field where riders are assessed based on their ability to ride the drawn horse, with recognition awarded to those who exhibit strong equitation and horsemanship skills. Competitions in the IEA are structured for both individual and team participation.
JOIN OUR TEAM
Riders interested in joining our IEA Team must be able to ride in a group at the walk, trot, and canter during group lessons. While previous competition experience is not required, it's important to note that IEA levels are not correlated with USEF showing experience. Additionally, riders must be capable of grooming, tacking up, and properly caring for their assigned horse before and after lessons. Our Adult Program offers an affordable way to participate in equestrian competitions alongside fellow amateurs.
To learn more about the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA), please visit: rideiea.org.
For further information, please contact the MZ Equestrian Team Manager, Cathy Muzzy, at cmuzzy@mzequestrian.com or (714) 381-9251.
Hunt Seat
The 2026-2027 IEA Team Packet and Rider Application are linked above. This packet includes essential information such as Team Guidelines, the Team Application and Waiver, Tryout Information, and Fee Schedule, all tailored for participants in the Interscholastic Equestrian Association. Additionally, the Team Calendar is linked below.
Don't miss out! IEA Hunt Seat Memberships for equestrian competitions open online at www.rideiea.org on May 18, 2026! Get ready for an exciting new season!
DRESSAGE
The 2026-2027 IEA Team Packet and Rider Application are linked above. This packet includes important details such as the Team Guidelines, Team Application and Waiver, Tryout Information, and Fee Schedule for our equestrian competitions. Additionally, the Team Calendar is linked below.
IEA Dressage Team Memberships will be available online at www.rideiea.org starting May 18, 2026. Join us in the Interscholastic Equestrian Association and be part of the team!
IEA HUNT SEAT Clinic Offered at MZ Equestrian ON August 21 -
From the Judge’s Perspective Clinic with Katie Schaaf on August 21 - 22, 2026
Participants learn from a USEF “R”/IEA/IHSA judge what she’s looking for in the ring and receive specific feedback on their rides, enhancing their skills for equestrian competitions. The clinic is structured like a horse show, where riders walk the course and compete in a class over fences as well as a flat class. Feedback is provided through a dialogue between judge and rider, supplemented with written comments. Throughout the clinic, riders will gain insights into the differences between USEF and IEA/IHSA showing, equipping them to perform their best at each. Additionally, riders are encouraged to observe alongside the judge and ask questions, particularly about the IEA Team format and expectations.
OUR IEA 2026 - 2027 HORSE SPONSORS
