Lexington, KY (Tuesday, July 11, 2006) - The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) announced today that Erin Cooper is the winner of the 2006 Team Leadership Award, established to recognize outstanding student leaders who are members of USDF Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Member Organizations (IMOs). As the winner, Cooper will receive a certificate and a five-year Participating Membership with USDF – a value of $250.

Erin Cooper was nominated for the award by Jackie Dwelle the dressage coach at St. Andrews Presbyterian College who praised Cooper for her hard work, dedication, leadership, and ability to motivate others. Other letters of recommendation noted Cooper's organizational skills, leadership, and her status as a role model for others involved in the program.  In accordance with the award criteria, the judges reviewed Cooper's personal essay, resume, college transcript, and three letters of recommendation.

The Team Leadership Award was developed exclusively for the USDF's Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Membership, a membership category developed to provide students access to USDF educational programs and communication and recognition of achievement to IMOs and their student members. IM membership is available to students who attend IMO schools. Any school from middle school through college that offers an equestrian studies program or student equestrian club can become a USDF IMO school. USDF also works closely with the Intercollegiate Dressage Association to promote dressage interest, participation, and competitions among schools and students.

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, the recognition of achievement, and the promotion of the sport of dressage.

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, email [email protected], or call (859) 971-2277.