The U.S. Center for SafeSport will update their SafeSport training courses on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Those who are in the process of completing a course need to complete them by Tuesday, March 25 to avoid having to restart from the beginning.


USEF Para Equestrian Dressage Coach Certificate Program & Rider Symposium
April 25-27, 2025
Wheatland Farm Equestrian Center
Purcellville, Va.

Click here for schedule and additional information.

USEF Para Coach Certificate Program Application 

The application is now available through the USEF Member Dashboard at members.usef.org. Once signed on to your USEF.org account, click on Athlete Dashboard > Online Applications. From the Online Sport Application page, select Para-Equestrian from the Category menu and 2025 for the year, then click Search. 

Additional Requirements:

  • USEF Safe Sport Online Training
    • Cost: Free.
  • USEF Background Check (required)
    • Cost: $20. 
    • Click on My USEF in upper right of screen and enter your membership I.D. to access your Member Dashboard. Background Check is located at the bottom of page. 
  • PERSONAL NARRATIVE: 250-500 words, 12 pt font, letter format with signature, name, date, and address to be submitted with the application on a separate document. It should include the following information:
    • 1)Riding, coaching, and competition experience in the equestrian sports of dressage, para-dressage, and/or eventing dressage. List any coaching certification currently held (PATH Int’l.,BHS, USDF, USEA). Include your educational background (academic and equestrian coursestaken). List any achievements/awards/scores at recognized shows (USDF, USEA).
    • 2) Current training and competition goals (e.g. personal and any athletes you train).
    • 3) Riding/training influences and coaching philosophy.
    • 4) Indicate why this coach certification is important to you.
    • 5) Explain how you will engage with para-equestrian sport beyond an individual athlete, suchas giving back through apprentice coach development and overall sport awareness.
    • 6) If applicable, state your case for Fast-Tracking as outlined in the Information Booklet.
  • PROFESSIONAL REFERENCE LETTER:
    • 250-500 words, 12 pt font, letter format from a dressage coach/mentor with signature, name,date, and address to be submitted with the application on a separate document. This lettershould include the following information: the applicant’s character, equestrian skills andknowledge, riding and coaching experience and goals, and commitment to the sport.

Send required materials to Laureen Johnson, Director of Para Equestrian, at [email protected].

 

Forms and Publications

Para Coach Certificate Program Booklet

Booklet

Step I - Application - USEF Para Coach Certificate Program - Now Available through USEF membership portal

APPLICATION is available through USEF membership portal, https://members.usef.org, Once signed on, click on Athlete Dashboard, Online Applications, Para-Equestrian, 2024. Please download the criteria for additional application requirements.

Step II.a. Para Coach Certificate Program Syllabus

Syllabus

Step II.b. Readiness Check List

Readiness Check List

Step IV. Reflection Check List

Check List

USEF Para Dressage Coach Continuing Education Form

USEF Para Dressage Coach Continuing Education Form