Coach of the Year

 

Paul Seuren is a highly respected leader in Pony Club coaching, recognized for his unwavering dedication to coaching excellence and his extensive contributions to the equestrian community.

Holding a Level 1 Pony Club Australia qualification, Paul serves as the West Gippsland Zone Chief Instructor and has played a pivotal role in coach education at the state level. His commitment to personal and professional development is evident through his active participation in workshops, online training via the Australian Sports Commission, and mentoring future coaches.

Paul commenced his Pony Club journey in 1982, quickly achieving his D Certificate in 1983, D Star Certificate in 1984, and progressing through the ranks to earn his K Certificate in 1988 and B Certificate in 1992. His deep understanding of equestrian disciplines is demonstrated by his participation in State Show Jumping to B Grade, State Dressage to Grade 1, and State Eventing to Grade 1.

With over three decades of coaching experience since 1990, Paul has been a C Assessor since 1991 and has continuously contributed to the development of coaching standards as a member of the DCI/ZA Panel since 1991. His commitment to education and mentorship is evident in his role as a Zone Examining Secretary from 2013 to 2020 and as a B Assessor from 2019 to the present. He has also been a Coach Mentor and Coach Presenter/Assessor since 2020, where he actively shares his extensive knowledge and experience with aspiring coaches.

In addition to his role as the West Gippsland Zone Chief Instructor since 2020, Paul has been instrumental in establishing the West Gippsland Zone’s ambassador program, providing riding members with opportunities for personal growth and development. His incorporation of Equitation Science principles into his coaching sessions has revolutionized the way riders engage with their horses, fostering a more profound understanding of equestrianism among his students.

Paul’s dedication to the sport extends beyond coaching; he actively trains and mentors coaches and riders for higher certifications, demonstrating his commitment to coaching excellence and personal professional development. He has played a significant role in the implementation of Pony Club Equitation Science since 2019 and serves as an assessor for the China Pony Club Efficiency Test since 2019.

His contributions to the broader equestrian community include judging roles in dressage and show jumping, and his participation as a state coach for PCA Nationals in 2023. Paul is also involved in the PCV Dressage Committee and has volunteered his expertise as an Archery Coach and Gear Check Presenter/Assessor since 2022.

Throughout his coaching career, Paul has provided support and guidance to countless riders, including mentoring young ambassadors and training for higher certifications. He regularly coaches at multiple Pony Clubs, including Loch-Nyora, Woodlands, and Cockatoo, where he is a familiar and encouraging presence. His casual coaching at clubs such as Corner Inlet, Doongala, Kangaroo Ground, and others highlights his willingness to share his expertise wherever needed.

His vibrant personality and encouraging nature inspire riders of all ages, making him a beloved figure in the Pony Club community.