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Starting an Athletic Equestrian League (AEL) team is a simple and rewarding way to expand your equestrian program, riding school, or horse barn by offering riders a structured competition experience focused on skill development and horsemanship.

AEL provides a unique opportunity for horse trainers, riding instructors, barns, and youth equestrian programs to create a team-based competition experience for riders of all ages and skill levels. With divisions including Minis (1st–3rd grade), Beginner, Advanced Beginner, Novice, Intermediate, Open, and Adult, AEL allows riders to compete at an appropriate level while developing confidence and advancing their riding skills.

How to Start an AEL Team

Getting started with an AEL team begins with a few simple steps:

1. Build Your Team
Identify riders who are interested in participating and determine the appropriate divisions for your athletes. AEL teams can be created through existing lesson programs, private barns, schools, and equestrian organizations.

2. Register Your Team and Coaches
Create your AEL team membership and FREE coaches membership within Ringside Pro. Coaches play an important role in preparing riders, organizing practices, and guiding athletes through the AEL competition process. Once the team membership is established you can direct your team to sign up!

3. Prepare Riders Through Training and Education
AEL competitions are designed to develop well-rounded equestrian athletes. Riders prepare through flatwork, fences or poles, and a practicum knowledge-based test that evaluates their understanding of horse care, riding concepts, and equestrian skills. Don’t worry the fences tests and practicum are provided ahead of time to allow for practice!

4. Enter Competitions
Once your team is established, riders can participate in AEL competitions and starting competing! Unlike traditional horse shows where riders compete directly against one another, AEL evaluates each athlete’s performance based on individual achievement and mastery of the skills required for their level.

A Different Approach to Equestrian Competition

The Athletic Equestrian League uses an innovative scoring format designed to recognize the complete equestrian athlete. Riders receive an overall score based on:

• 40% Flatwork

• 40% Fences or Poles

• 20% Practicum Knowledge-Based Test

This standards-based judging system encourages riders to focus on growth, improvement, and skill development while providing coaches with valuable feedback to help athletes continue progressing.

Whether you are a horse trainer looking to add a competitive team to your barn, a riding school expanding your program, or an equestrian organization seeking a new opportunity for riders, AEL provides the structure, resources, and community to help you get started.

Download the Starting an AEL Team Checklist to guide you through each step of creating your team and bringing AEL to your riding program.