Test Scorer
Test scorers are the quiet engines behind a well-run show. This role involves calculating and recording dressage scores with accuracy and efficiency, ensuring that riders receive timely, correct results. You’ll work in the show office, entering numeric scores from dressage tests and checking totals and percentages. It’s a role that requires focus, organization, and comfort with numbers—plus collaboration with runners, score posters, and awards volunteers.
Why This Role Matters
Ensures scoring is accurate and timely
Keeps test results moving through the system so riders can see their scores
Supports the credibility and professionalism of the competition
Key Responsibilities
Receive completed tests from the test runner and verify rider info
Review each test to ensure it’s complete, signed, and legible
Enter scores accurately into a calculator or computer scoring system
Double-check totals, apply coefficients, subtract errors, and calculate the final percentage
Write the total points and percentage clearly on the test sheet
Flag any problems (missing scores, unclear judge marks, etc.) and resolve them with help from the show office or Technical Delegate (TD)
Keep tests organized by class for easy handoff to score poster and awards
How It Works
Scoring takes place behind the scenes, but it’s one of the most high-stakes roles at the show. You’ll be based in the scoring area—typically a quiet workspace in the show office—where you’ll focus on entering scores quickly and accurately as tests arrive from the rings.
You won’t be managing other volunteers, but you’ll coordinate closely with test runners and score posters throughout the day. You may need to answer questions, clarify your organizational system, or pass along instructions from the show manager. Keeping everyone on the same page helps ensure that scores are entered correctly, posted in a timely way, and sorted properly for awards.
Expect stretches of steady concentration punctuated by bursts of activity when multiple tests arrive at once. You’ll need to stay calm, organized, and methodical—even when the pace picks up. When scoring flows well, everything else does too.
Tips for Success
Stay focused and accurate. Mis-keyed numbers lead to big problems. Take your time, double-check your work, and don’t let the pace rush you.
Keep up with the flow. Riders want to see their scores quickly—do your best to stay on top of the incoming stack of tests.
Be detail-oriented. Confirm that the bridle number, rider name, and class match the schedule. If anything seems off, ask before scoring.
Stay organized. Use class folders or designated stacks to keep things in order—especially if you’re working with multiple classes at once.
Work well with others. You’ll be coordinating with runners, score posters, and awards volunteers to keep everything moving.
Flag any issues. Unclear handwriting, missing judge signatures, or score changes without initials should be brought to the show manager or TD.
Physical Considerations
This role involves light activity:
Sitting at a desk or table for long periods
Typing or entering numbers with consistent focus
Indoor or shaded workspace (but can still get warm or noisy)
Previous Experience
This role requires prior experience as a test runner or score poster so that you’re familiar with how tests move through the show and what accurate, timely scoring means for competitors. You don’t need to be a math expert—but comfort with numbers, focus, and attention to detail are essential.
This role is a great next step for volunteers who are:
Comfortable entering numeric data quickly and accurately
Familiar with dressage test sheets and show day flow
Confident staying focused for long periods in a fast-paced environment
Ready to take on more responsibility behind the scenes
You’ll receive training on how to calculate totals, apply coefficients, and handle edge cases (like scratches or incomplete tests), but a foundation of prior volunteer experience is key.
Important Notes
Please arrive early and check in with show management to get set up.
Bring water, snacks, and whatever you need to stay focused and comfortable throughout the day.
Wear neat, comfortable clothing (no riding attire).