MHC Dressage Team Captain Wins Leadership Award

Posted: September 23, 2005

Nicole Mazzeo '05 warms up Blitz for first-level competition. (photo by Fred LeBlanc)

Mount Holyoke’s dressage team, which has dominated the national scene in recent years, continues to rack up honors, even when not actively competing. This summer, Nicole Mazzeo ’05, a four-year veteran of the team and 2004-2005 team captain, won the United States Dressage Federation’s 2005 Team Leadership Award. The prize was established to recognize outstanding student leaders who are members of USDF intercollegiate/interscholastic member organizations.

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Foundation (USDF) is the country’s preeminent dressage organization.

MHC dressage coach Rebecca Schurink nominated Mazzeo for the award, praising her hard work, dedication, leadership, and ability to motivate others. Other letters of recommendation noted Mazzeo's initiative, leadership, and her status as a role model for others involved in the program. As the winner, Mazzeo will receive a certificate and a five-year participating membership with USDF.

Another MHC team member, Inge Schmidt ’05, who served as both manager and horse master, received honorable mention.

"I am thrilled that Nicole has been honored with such a prestigious award from the USDF and that Inge received honorable mention," Schurink said. "Both these young women worked incredibly hard over the years to make the MHC dressage club the best it could be. Their influence is being felt now by the incoming team and captain, sophomore Ashley Ireland. Due to Nicole and Inge's great initiative, the transition into leading this year’s team has been flawless. All the new officers have been prepared well and remain in touch with Nicole and Inge for guidance and support. We are fortunate to have such remarkably giving and talented women in our programs."

Related Links:

Mount Holyoke’s Dressage Team

United States Dressage Foundation