American Made Rodeo Drill Team

Membership Riding Criteria & Try-outs

American Made feels they are a close-knit and cohesive ladies organization.  For this reason a prospective member's name must be presented to the team at a team meeting by a team member for consideration before an invitation to try-out is issued.  Try-out period can only be done during mandatory team ride practice nights which are February through October at The Trails End Arena in Olympia.

Member submitting name for consideration is to inform team of prospective member's riding abilities, experiences and accomplishments.

Prospective members will be given a copy of the team guidelines, including a listing of potential expenses.  Ladies who are interested in trying out for American Made will be required to meet the criteria listed below:

• Members are expected to have a horse to ride (stock type preferred) and a means of transporting their drill horse to team events and practices.
• A prospective member must ride six (6) practices with the team.  This must be accomplished within a two (2) month period.
• A prospective member must be able to carry a flag during maneuvers performed at a fast lope.  This must be accomplished by the end of the fourth (4) ride.
• A prospective member must be able to perform simple test outlined by the Drill Master.
  3 minimum requirements:
  • Member and horse must be able to know how and pick up proper leads
  • Be completely under control while riding with one hand
  • By the end of the try-out period, be able to canter thru the National Anthem drill successfully
• A prospective member must show a willingness to learn, participate as a team player, follow directions and participate in parades.
• Due to the expense involved, a prospective member must feel they will be able to afford to participate fully in all functions.

The prospective member and their horse will be voted on as a unit.

The above must be completed prior to the team voting on membership.  Team members who have observed the prospective member during at least four (4) practices are eligible to vote on membership.

Voting will take place at a meeting.  Team members will be notified a week prior of when the voting will take place by the Captain.

The prospective member will not be present at this meeting.

Membership voting will be done by secret ballot and membership status will be awarded upon a unanimous vote for approval.

The Captain will notify the prospective member within 24 hours of the voting results.

If membership is denied, a letter of explanation may be sent to the prospective member, outlining what, if any, actions may be taken by them to be approved for membership in American Made.

Drill Horse Criteria

• Horse must be hands or taller (Drill Master may make an exception on height).
• Drill horse is preferred to be "stock type horse"
• No stallions or gaited horses.
• Must be shod for all performances and parades.
• Shoes must be in safe, working condition.
• To be ridden Western style in a Western saddle.
• For overall appearance, you may be required to remove your back cinch.
• Horses being used for drill must be current on all shots and deworming.