S.T.E.E.D (Soldiers Training for Exemplary Equestrian Development)
The Soldiers Training for Exemplary Equestrian Development (S.T.E.E.D.) program welcomes individuals from all walks of life. Situated in a setting that draws inspiration from medieval themes, the program offers a unique blend of historical ambiance with practical and mindful equestrian training, designed to enrich participants' lives with robust skill development and personal growth.
Program Objectives: S.T.E.E.D is dedicated to fostering a comprehensive suite of benefits for participants, emphasizing skill enhancement, personal growth, physical engagement, and a deep sense of community through a structured mentorship program. The primary objectives include:
Skill Enhancement: Cultivating advanced equestrian skills and historical riding disciplines such as jousting and ceremonial drills, in addition to the development of life skills, and traditional knight/noble training.
Personal Growth: Providing enriching experiences that promote psychological resilience and emotional well-being, facilitated through reflective and meditative exercises.
Physical Engagement: Engaging participants in physically demanding activities that improve health and mobility, supported by the therapeutic qualities of horsemanship and equine partnership.
Community and Mentorship: Strengthening interpersonal connections through a structured mentorship system where seasoned participants (Knights) guide newcomers (Squires) in their journey towards knighthood.
Program Structure:
Foundational Training: Participants start with fundamental equine care, training, and basic riding, emphasizing safety and understanding of equine behavior.
Advanced Skills Development: Progressing to specialized disciplines that reinforce the program’s military theme and prepare participants for the knighting ceremony such as archery, dressage, jumping, sword drills, and jousting.
Mentorship Program: Seasoned Knights of S.T.E.E.D have the opportunity to take on a direct role in guiding Squires, sharing knowledge and experiences to foster a continuous learning environment.
Knighting Ceremony: A ceremonial accolade that marks the successful completion of the program, bestowing upon graduates a sword of their choice and the tremendous honor of knighthood within the S.T.E.E.D community.
Facilities, Staff and Volunteers: The facility is complete with a training arena, and acreage tailored for historical equestrian activities. Our staff and volunteers ensure a rich educational and developmental experience. We currently have two experienced nurses, two PhD’s, one Clinical Mental Health Counselor that doubles as a Archery and Fencing Instructor, one certified personal trainer, and one Military Medical Doctor on hand to assist in the operation of the program.
Eligibility and Enrollment: Open to all interested parties over the age of 18, S.T.E.E.D is particularly beneficial for those in service roles seeking a supportive community, prior military, first responders, police or essential worker positions. However, families are welcome, if the guardians are willing to engage in the program overseeing alongside their children or teens who wish to partake in some of the programs activities.
Knighting and Graduation: Participants who complete the necessary competency assessments are knighted in a traditional ceremony, receiving a sword, in addition to the opportunity to guide Pages, and Squires through the program. The ceremony is a significant rite of passage, celebrating the transition from learner to mentor.
Mentorship and Community Integration: Graduates, now Knights of S.T.E.E.D, may assume mentorship roles, taking on Squires and or Pages, guiding them through their own training. This mentorship is considered integral to the program’s ethos, emphasizing the passing of knowledge and traditions from one person to the next.
Contact and Further Information: For additional details about S.T.E.E.D, how to join, or to schedule a session or visit, please click on the Sword below, or click the S.T.E.E.D Signup box in the websites header.
We are eager to welcome new members to our community and introduce them to the fulfilling world of historical equestrian arts.
