General
The GW Equestrian Team is an all-encompassing equestrian experience that is new and fun for everyone, no matter what level of riding or discipline you have practiced. Members have the opportunity to compete in intercollegiate horse shows hosted by various schools in the region, including University of Maryland, The College of William and Mary, and University of Richmond as part of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). Riders also have access to fine hunter, and equitation training from head trainer Daphne Boogaard, at the beautiful equestrian facilities of Tulip Pond Farm in Poolesville, MD.
The GW team is a new experience for any equestrian. Riding on a team with peers and friends, and competing is not only a great challenge but a lot of fun! The team stresses a teamwork atmosphere, and focuses on strengthening each rider's individual talents and abilities. Team members participate in other team building events such as fundraising, attending local equestrian events such as the Washington International Horse Show, team bonding events throughout the season, and the great companionship of a dedicated group of equestrians.
If you would like to join the team, contact one of the team members and read through the team information section. Also check out our apparel supplier at Sew Pony and see Medal Maclay for general information on equitation.
The Coaches
The team's coach head is Daphne Boogaard. Daphne has been a professional hunter/jumper/equitation trainer since 1996, and has been an equestrian her whole life. She has experience riding and competing in dressage, as well as hunters and jumpers, and has trained with top trainers such as Joe Fargis and Greg Best. She also rode in the IHSA while she was an undergraduate at University of Maryland. Daphne still participates in IHSA shows, riding in the alumni division. She owns and operates Tulip Pond Farm, maintains a rigorous show schedule, and in 2007 welcomed the GWU Equestrian Team to Tulip Pond Farm.
Shannon Thomas joined Tulip Pond and GWET in 2008. She has extensive teaching experience in hunters and equitation, and participated on Mary Washington's Intercollegiate team as an undergraduate.