AHYA President's Corner

Gearing up for Youth 2008

With Youth Nationals only a month away, I can't help but think about my first time traveling across the country to show in Tingly Coliseum. It was my last year in walk-trot, and it was probably the most overwhelming experience of my life. I was in awe of the huge fairgrounds, caliber of horses, and all the people. Even though I had an incredible time, I felt like I did not belong there simply because all I did was show and hang out with my mom. I watched the Parade of Regions, walked past the ice cream social, and heard about the AHYA Convention but failed to participate. It was so easy to get wrapped up in showing; I missed out all the events which make the Youth National experience complete.

The AHYA Board of Directors has been working diligently on both the national and regional level to make the 2008 show season the most memorable one yet. From the Little Whinny Café and Guitar Hero Tournament to clothing consignment and the Taste of Regions, the additions to Youth Nationals are inventive and exciting. Each region will host a regional youth meeting along with other events to allow everyone a chance to participate in what the AHYA has to offer.

Our board has grown together tremendously the past year. As a result, we have been able to accomplish great things to promote our wonderful breed and make it easy for everyone to participate in our programs. I'd like to recognize and congratulate seven of the board members for graduating from high school: Britney Kaiser, Olivia White, Jennifer Stice, Gloria Onate-Kemnitz, Kaysie Gorczyca, Justine Ameye, and Stephanie Schroeder. I have had the privilege of working with many of these ladies for a couple years. Some of them will be returning to the board next year and others of us will be aging out or focusing on furthering our education. While this will be my last term on the AHYA BOD, I am confident the board will continue to thrive and make incredible improvements. Being on the board for three years has been one of the best decisions I have made thus far. I will never forget the lessons I have learned, the enjoyment I have gotten, and the friends I have made. I urge anyone who is interested the AHYA to talk to your regional Youth Director about becoming a delegate for the 2008 AHYA Convention or a Youth Director for your region. I guarantee it will be worth it!

It is the most wonderful time of the year! Show season is in full swing and the anticipation of Youth Nationals consumes our lives. Now is the time to start planning to make sure you do not miss any of the fun we have in store! Check out the Youth Events page for a complete list of activities. If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to email me.

~ Kim Luebcke
AHYA President

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