If you're hoping to ride in college, there are two equestrian associations to choose from: NCEA (National Collegiate Equestrian Association) and IHSA (Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association). These two associations differ in three ways: recruiting, competition style, and time commitment. Many of these differences come from the fact that NCEA is accepted under NCAA and IHSA is a separate entity (much like NAIA is separate from the NCAA). In fact, NCEA is currently classified as an NCAA emerging sport. Let's take a deep dive into the main resulting differences between NCEA and IHSA.
Recruiting
IHSA cannot recruit at all. Every rider must try out for IHSA teams.
NCEA can and does actively recruit. Recruiting is primarily done from the following large equitation classes:
- Maclay Finals
- Talent Search Finals
- Medal Finals
Related: 5 tips for IHSA Equestrian Tryouts
Format and Shows
Both have a random draw for which horse you will ride; however, NCEA allows a 4-minute warmup on that horse while IHSA does not. Additionally, NCEA riders all ride the same horse, and IHSA riders do not. Finally, in IHSA shows, many teams compete with each other, rather than two teams competing head-to-head.
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
Time Commitment
IHSA primarily competes within their region during the season, and only travel during the post-season. During the NCEA season, it's common to travel much further, which will require a greater time commitment.
If you you have the option to choose between NCEA and IHSA schools, take these three differences into account.
Have an idea for a story or a question you need answered? Want to set up an interview with us? Email us at [email protected]
* Originally published on March 21, 2022, by Daphne Mollod
