As YEDA celebrates its 10th anniversary, we are proud to introduce a new tradition that honors those who have shaped our organization and inspired the next generation of Western riders, the YEDA Hall of Fame.
For the past decade, YEDA has grown from a grassroots idea into a nationwide program empowering youth through Western riding, leadership development, and education. Throughout this journey, certain individuals and horses have made a lasting impact on the YEDA community. The Hall of Fame will honor those influential contributors in four categories:
- Coaches & Leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary mentorship and commitment to youth development.
- Horses that have left a memorable legacy in the arena and helped countless riders grow in skill and confidence.
- Student Riders (Alumni) who began in YEDA and continued on to meaningful accomplishments in the equine industry.
- Community Partners sponsors, organizations, and supporters who have strengthened YEDA’s mission and expanded opportunities for young equestrians.
Nominations will be accepted from current YEDA coaches, board members, and organizational leadership. A specially appointed selection committee, including respected individuals both within and outside of YEDA will review submissions each year.
Hall of Fame inductees will be celebrated and recognized annually during the YEDA National Championship Show, where their legacy can be honored in front of the entire community.
The Hall of Fame is a tribute to YEDA’s past and a promise to its future preserving the stories, spirit, and influential contributions that have helped shape the heart of the program.
Application Overview CLICK HERE & Google Doc Application
Application Overview CLICK HERE & PDF Easy Print Application
Application Submission
Option 1: Online Submission of Google Form. Testimonials can be typed directly into the form or shared as a Google Doc/Drive link. This is also embedded at the bottom of this page. Hall of Fame Nomination GOOGLE Form – Click here to open the Form in a New Tab. = https://forms.gle/gP5YuF9SskY4vyap6
Option 2: Complete the nomination form as a Word, Google, or PDF document and submit it using one of the following methods:
- Email: Send the completed application to Ric Weitzel at rwietzel@showyeda.com
- Mail: Send the completed application packet to:
Ric Weitzel: 11911 Leavitt Rd, Oberlin, OH 44074
Testimonials – Heads Up
You will need 1–3 written testimonials to complete this nomination.
Testimonials can be typed directly into the form or shared as a Google Doc/Drive link.
Questions or Support Contact
Ric Weitzel rwietzel@showyeda.com
Molly Niese mniese@showyeda.com
