By Jan Westmark-Allan
Hunter and jumper trainer John Abbott, the owner of the beautiful Bridlewood Farm in Aiken, South Carolina, has coached students for many years, from short stirrup kids to amateur owner hunters and jumpers. John is wearing a new “coach” hat now – a hat emblazoned with a USC Aiken logo! We caught up with the man who is the coach of the USC Aiken riding team to find out more about coaching a college riding team:
Becoming the coach of the USC Aiken team…
The original coach suggested I interview for the position. It was quite a process with about eight other applicants and after two interviews they picked me to be the USC Aiken coach!
Responsibilities of a coach…
I teach a lot of lessons to prepare for the IHSA shows. The team members have different goals, so I identify their aspirations and assist in their achievement. The rider’s abilities range from no prior equestrian experience, all the way to successful junior careers on the USEF AA show circuit. We attend shows in Zone 5, Region 2 which includes Georgia and
South Carolina. Most of all, I understand college can be stressful so I try to make this an outlet for the students to get away from the campus and enjoy their time with the horses.
USC Aiken Coach John Abbott with members of the riding team. Photo courtesy USC Aiken
Working with a young team…
The USC Aiken team is only three years old! The first year was focused on the western aspect and the emphasis on hunter seat and equitation started when I took over in September 2010. Our goal is to build the team and continue with the show season as it comes up in the spring and fall.
Training at Bridlewood Farm…
I opened my farm two years ago and it’s a beautiful facility with a great location, just 5 miles from downtown Aiken. I have a couple of school horses that I provide for the USC Aiken team and the team members take lessons a minimum of once a week to be able to be on the IHSA team.
The reason he likes coaching…
Mainly because it allows anyone with an interest in riding and being around horses to have a competitive experience, along with the team experience.
The shows are for the beginner to the advanced rider.
Funding a college riding team…
They have a small budget and I provide the experienced horses for them to ride and learn on. Also, the students pay for their lessons at a discounted rate, not by the school. Aiken Saddlery generously donates grain for the school horse program.
Watching his team riders grow…
No matter what their aspirations, I enjoy seeing a rider learn and grow – it’s a great reward to me. One rider, who originally didn’t feel that she was that talented, has developed into a fantastic rider! She has a great feel when jumping and she’s brave
If he could coach another team…
It would probably be tennis because I like wearing shorts! Seriously though, I played in high school through college and enjoyed it a lot. It keeps you in shape!
