UTK WESTERN EQUESTRIAN TEAM
Diamond J Ranch is proud home of the Tennessee Volunteers!
The University of Tennessee has several amazing opportunities for all student equine enthusiasts— whether you’re an accomplished rider wanting to continue in the show ring, have never climbed on a horse before, or are somewhere in between. The IHSA team offers students the chance to ride and compete on the Western Team, Hunt Seat Team, or join as a Horsemanship (non-riding) member. It’s the perfect way for students to meet other like-minded individuals, creating friendships and memories to last a lifetime.
What is IHSA? (Intercollegiate Horse Shows Assoiation)
The IHSA welcomes full-time undergraduate students to participate in both English (hunter seat equitation) and Western (Western horsemanship, ranch riding and reining) disciplines within a format designed for riders at all levels of experience. At IHSA competitions, show hosts provide horses for competing riders, assigning horses via random draw. This format eliminates the expense of owning or transporting a horse and brings intercollegiate equestrian competition within financial reach of over 8,000 college and university students each year in the United States and Canada. IHSA membership is open to all colleges, universities and junior colleges.
Who can join?
The UTK Western Equestrian Team welcomes any enrolled undergraduate student to join!
There is no need to try out for the team, however there are limited riding spots offered due to available lesson horses and priority is given to students who are committed to competing. Students can also join as "Horsemanship" members (non-riding) or compete on the Hunt Seat Team at Willowind Farm.
Students do not need to own a horse or have ever ridden before in order to join. Students interested in joining are encouraged to attend the fall interest meeting and Western Team Orientation on August 22nd, 2026.
2026-27 Western Show Schedule
Fall Semester:
10/17-18/26: Western Kentucky University
11/7-8/26: Murray State University
Spring Semester:
2/6-7/2027: Tennessee Tech University
2/19-20/2027: Middle Tennessee State University
Post Season (Spring Semester):
2/21/2027: Regionals @ Middle Tennessee State University
3/21-22/27: Semi-Finals
5/7-9/27: IHSA Nationals
Commitment & Costs
Students are required to participate in group lessons once a week for 11 weeks (12 weeks for returning students), as well as a 2 hour weekly commitment to barn chores. They must also maintain a GPA of 2.5 of higher as a full-time student in order to show, attend monthly club meetings, and earn one service credit and one fundraising credit per semester. If you do not have a car on campus, we encourage carpooling with teammates for transportation to the barn.
Costs Per Semester:
Returning members (12 weeks): $660
New members (11 weeks): $605
Team dues: $50
Club dues: $175
Show fees: $50/class
*Lodging and transportation for shows is provided, students are responsible for their meals.*
While there are not currently any riding scholarships available through the university, Diamond J Ranch will be offering an opportunity for one highly deserving incoming student to ride for free in lessons their Freshman year in 2027 (more details to be announced).
What You'll Need For Lessons & Showing
Lessons:
- Properly fitted ASTM/SEI Approved Helmet
- Western ball spurs
- Long pants
- Cowboy or paddock boots with a heel (at least 1")
- Signed Hold Harmless waiver (must be signed by a guardian if under 18)
- An open mind, positive attitude, willingness to learn & apply yourself!
Shows:
*Some items may be borrowed/shared at shows for new students*
- Well shaped felt hat (preferably black)
- Fitted button down or zip show shirt with collar
- Black belt with buckle
- Black pants with belt loops
- Fitted full chaps (preferably black suede)
- Black boots with a heel
- Hair net, hair spray, and bobby pins (for low buns & securing hat)
- Ball spurs for levels Rookie B, Level 1, and Level 2. roweled spurs permitted for Open.
- Good sportsmanship, team spirit, and have fun!
Involvement
Diamond J Ranch hosts several onsite events which students are encouraged to be apart of! From team fundraisers, to barrel races, open arena nights, tack swaps, potlucks, and so much more, there are always opportunities for students to be involved in their local equine community without even leaving their home barn. Learn more on our "Events" page!
We are also planning a "Team Building Day" for August 29th, 2026 as a fun and educational way to kick off the new season, and bring the team together.
Student Boarding
We offer full care boarding to students wishing to bring their horse with them to college, and a discounted rate to students whose horses can be apart of lessons during the academic year (September-November and February-April). If you're riding on the team and looking for the ideal place to keep your horse, Diamond J Ranch might be the perfect fit for you!
Discounted rate: $500/month
Regular rate: $875/month
For students interested in boarding and having their horse be apart of the team, please contact Coach Julz and complete this google form:
Earn Your Spurs Achievement
Students who ride on the Western Equestrian Team at Diamond J Ranch for all 4 years of their college experience will receive a custom pair of spurs for their dedication and commitment.
How YOU Can Make A Difference
With the club being almost entirely student funded, both the Western & Hunt Seat teams are always in need of donations-- whether it be funds, safe used tack, show clothing, care items, equipment, or lesson horses. If you have items you'd like to donate, please contact the Western coach, Hunt Seat coach, or club advisor. You can also meet team members & donate at our 4th Annual Tack Swap at Diamond J Ranch on 10/31/26 (more information on our "events" page).
Sponsorship opportunities coming soon!