Dressage judge and scribe watching a horse and rider in the ring

Volunteer

Learn and Give Back

Volunteering is one of the best ways to deepen your understanding of dressage. You’ll gain hands-on experience, build relationships, and make a real contribution to the sport—all while supporting your local community.

When you volunteer, you:

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how dressage shows operate

Connect with fellow riders, organizers, and volunteers

Contribute to a stronger, more supportive dressage community

Are eligible for recognition through the USDF GMO Volunteer Incentive Program

Help keep show costs manageable for everyone

Ensure shows and events run smoothly

Volunteer Roles

We help all new volunteers get started in a beginner-friendly role that you can learn on the day. As you gain experience, you’ll have opportunities to take on more involved positions. Every role, no matter how small, is important and offers you a chance to learn something new.

Explore the roles below to learn more.

Beginner Friendly

Test Runner

Collect test sheets from the judge’s booth and deliver them to the show office. This simple but essential role helps ensure riders get their scores back promptly.

Learn more

Beginner Friendly

Score Poster

Take completed scores from the show office and post them for riders to see. The scoreboard remains a key gathering spot, even with results posted online.

Learn more

Beginner Friendly

Test Scorer

Review each test sheet for completeness and tally scores using a calculator. This role is well-suited for those who are detail-oriented and like working behind the scenes.

Learn more

Beginner Friendly

Ring Steward

Manage warm-up areas, keep competitors informed of their ride times, and perform basic equipment checks after tests. This role keeps the day running smoothly.

Learn more

Beginner Friendly

Scribe

Record the judge’s marks and comments for each movement of the test. This role requires strong focus and prior training, but it offers a unique educational opportunity.

Learn more

Ready to Volunteer?

We would love to have you as a volunteer at our next show. Take a look at our upcoming events, and reach out with your interests and availability.

Volunteer FAQ

Yes! We appreciate your time and effort, and we provide lunch for all full-day event volunteers.

We do not recommend it. Ride times can shift, and it's hard to balance riding and volunteering without added stress. We want you to be fully present for whichever role you're taking on.

If you’ve never scribed before, you’ll need to first participate in a scribing clinic. Subscribe to our newsletter to ensure you’re notified of future clinics.

It's a national recognition program for volunteers who support their local Group Member Organizations (like CDS). You can earn a lapel pin by logging your hours and submitting them to USDF. Learn more about the USDF Group Member Organization Volunteer Incentive Program.