Nations Team Championship 2026

Coach/Trainer Expression of Interest

The member countries of the Nations Team Championship 2026 are in the process of selecting an individual for the position of coach/trainer of the United Nations team which will be competing at Ocala, Florida, USA, from October 12 – 18, 2026. The “United Nations” team will be a composite team of individual and/or reserve riders from the following Nations countries:

The members of this unique team will meet for their first time on arrival at the competition, hold a limited number of practices on borrowed ponies, and join the other participating Nations teams in the competition arena.

The nature of the team requires a coach/trainer who possesses, first and foremost, excellent interpersonal skills, demonstrating a positive approach and calmness under pressure. The ability to quickly develop a positive rapport with team members in order to build a cohesive, inclusive team of riders from different cultures within a short period of time is essential. This would be an ideal opportunity for newer coaches to gain valuable international experience.

Importantly, the coach requires the ability to identify rider and pony strengths and needs, and address those in ways that encourage mutual trust and respect and encourage high levels of performance. In-depth knowledge of mounted games rules and strategies is essential.

The individual filling the role of Coach/Trainer for the United Nations Team will gain valuable international coaching experience. The Nations Committee encourages newer coach/trainers to apply for this opportunity.

Please note the summary of expectations below and note that all applicants are expected to be excellent examples of ethical coaching methods, adhering at all times to the IMGA Code of Conduct. Expenses related to this position – travel, accommodation, etc.- are the responsibility of the selected individual who may undertake fundraising or seek other forms of sponsorship to cover costs.

Complete your application by providing the information requested in the Application section and submit it to the Nations Committee Secretary at mcruikshanks@outlook.com by Sunday, June 14, 23:59 UTC.

The Nations Committee members look forward to hearing from you about this exciting coaching opportunity at the Nations Team Championship 2026.

Responsibilities of The Coach/Trainer:

· Contact UN Team riders in advance of Nations 2026 for:

o Information sharing and preparation

o Team building and planning

· Communicate and problem-solve with team Manager/Liaison, organisers, officials, and Referee

· Coordinate pony assessments, pool pony selection, and practices

· Coach riders during practice and competition

· Collaborate with riders to develop ride orders and provide feedback and support to riders

· Encourage full and positive participation of riders and ponies

Name:

Email:

Cell/Mobile:

Home Country:

Personal qualities and characteristics that make you a strong candidate for this position:

Mounted Games Experience:

Coaching Background/Experience, Training, and Qualifications:

References:

Provide email contact information for two riders that you have coached within the past year. Please include competition title(s), e.g. Irish Pairs, division(s) played e.g. Open, and duration of coaching responsibilities e.g. pre-competition practices, competition sessions, post-competition feedback and planning.

Please submit your application to the Nations Committee Secretary, Michelle Cruikshanks, at mcruikshanks@outlook.com