Accountability at All Ages

How Quinn Haven Stables in Maryland is starting their young riders right

From the magazine

At Quinn Haven Stables in Friendship, MD, if you’re going to ride, you’re going to do it thoughtfully and with accountability. And it’s not just for the kids, either. Parents, just like their little riders, sign a pledge at Quinn Haven promising to promote good horsemanship, sportsmanship, and more. Read on for the pledge that each rider and parent signs at the Maryland stable—and consider implementing something similar at yours!

Athlete Pledge

I, ______, an athlete on the Quinn Haven Stables show team, hereby solemnly swear tothe following:

• I will always put my horse or pony first—above myself and my desire to win.
• I will encourage my teammates and fellow competitors to always be their best.
• I will always respect the decision of the judge and steward.
• I will be respectful to show management and spectators.
• I will be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.
• I will encourage good sportsmanship by my teammates, coaches, spectators, and family.
• I will take responsibility for my actions.

As a competitor, I acknowledge that being a good horse person and good sport is more important than any ribbon. I will remember that riding is a privilege and a learning experience. It does not matter if I win or lose; what counts the most is how I conduct myself and that I compete in the spirit of the camaraderie with my teammates, competitors, and most importantly, my horse or pony.

Parent Athlete Pledge

I, ________ , a parent of an athlete on the Quinn Haven Stables show team, hereby solemnly swear to the following:

• I will support my child in putting the needs of their horse or pony above themselves and their desire to win.
• I will allow this sport to be my child’s by giving them the time to process theirperformance, encourage them always, and celebrate their growth.
• I will encourage good sportsmanship by my child, their teammates, coaches,spectators, and my family.
• I will be a proper role model for all athletes and spectators alike.
• I will always respect the decisions of the judge and steward.
• I will be respectful to show management and spectators.
• I will give the coaches the time they need at the ring to focus on my child and their teammates.
• I will take responsibility for my actions.

As a parent, I acknowledge that I am a role model. I will remember that athletics at all levels are a privilege and a learning experience. Winning is not the most important part of sports but the life lessons we learn and the relationships that are forged along the way are; most importantly, the one between rider and their horse or pony.