Lessons at Grand Slam Equestrian
PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTION
Nina M. Shaffer"At Grand Slam Equestrian, I take great pride in personally overseeing every lesson and training session. Unlike programs that rely on assistant trainers, I am directly involved in the education and development of each rider and horse. This hands-on approach ensures consistent instruction, individualized attention, and a deeper connection with every participant. My commitment to personally guiding each client reflects my dedication to providing a high-quality, personalized equestrian experience where every detail matters."
The Grand Slam lesson program pedagogy stems from Nina's personal experience spanning multiple disciplines which include: Dressage, Eventing, Fox Hunting, Hunters, Hunt Seat Equitation, In-Hand Showing, Jumpers, Sidesaddle, Trail & Western Pleasure.
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This is not your average lesson program- lessons are taught by a PA Department of Education Certified teacher in a safe, supportive environment, with qualified lesson horses. Nina shares her passion of horses with others and has taught individuals with physical and cognitive impairments throughout her professional career. While Grand Slam Equestrian is not considered a therapeutic riding facility, we do work closely with the special needs community daily through special interest instruction.
The main goal of the Grand Slam Equestrian program is to provide skill development, safety, education, personal growth, and a sense of community. "THE GREATEST COMPLIMENT A TEACHER CAN GET IS FOR THEIR STUDENTS TO SURPASS THEIR KNOWLEDGE." -John G. Kemeny
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LONGEVITY
At a time when quality lesson programs are becoming increasingly scarce, Grand Slam Equestrian remains committed to providing accessible, high-caliber instruction to riders of all levels. As many barns shift away from offering lessons to non-horse owners, we recognize the critical role that structured, inclusive programs play in sustaining the future of equestrian sport. By maintaining a well-trained lineup of exceptional horses, Grand Slam Equestrian offers professionally guided instruction without the need to own or lease a horse. This opens the door for more individuals to experience and grow within the sport. Such accessibility is essential not only for nurturing the next generation of riders but also for preserving the longevity and integrity of the equestrian community as a whole.
SAFE HORSES
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For context, in order for horses to be used for lessons in our program, they go through several months of professional training to determine their suitability and safety for lesson students of varying ability levels. We strive to provide well-rounded, show quality horses for clients to learn on which increase rider’s confidence.
Having competed across multiple disciplines themselves, often with different riders, they are limited in their jumping height. This is deliberately done to increase their longevity within our program. Each of our lesson horses have custom built saddles which allow unrestricted movement for optimum performance, safety, and comfort of both horse and rider. They receive personalized care by our qualified team of holistic professionals which includes: equine medical, dental, nutritional, massage, chiropractic and acupuncture care routinely. |
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DEVELOPING A PASSION
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Lesson students, if new to riding, are taught how to groom and tack at Grand Slam Equestrian. This allows riders to not only observe the horse, but build a bond with the horse before they even sit on their back. Riders spend approximately 30 minutes prior to their scheduled lesson time preparing the horses and an additional 30 minutes after the lesson taking care of the horse and equipment. Lessons are only offered in one hour increments.
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Riding is a life-long passion that can follow riders from Elementary School through College, potentially providing scholarships onto collegiate riding teams. These fundamentals, once mastered, bestow enjoyment of horses across the country and around the world.
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INTERNATIONAL INSTRUCTION
Nina has had the privilege of working with international equestrians (Germany, Mexico, Philippines & United Kingdom) who have trained with her while residing in or visiting family in the United States. Her instruction bridges diverse backgrounds, languages, and riding styles, offering a personalized approach for each rider. Grand Slam Equestrian is proud to cultivate a globally-informed and inclusive learning environment that welcomes riders from around the world.
FOSTERING COMMITMENT
Horse ownership is a life-long commitment to that animal. Leasing can be a good option for people to determine if the life-long commitment of ownership is for them. It is also good for children as they progress in their riding careers, age, and grow. Leasing also allows a change of discipline.
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Emphasizing a strong focus on horsemanship, the Grand Slam lesson program requires individuals who are dedicated to learning and being a part of a team. A minimum time commitment of approximately three hours weekly is required from junior riders and their parents.
Many things can be learned without being on the back of a horse. Such horsemanship skills include Basic Handling, Stable Management, Tack Cleaning and Care, Grooming Techniques (which include body clipping and braiding), and First Aid. We encourage students to be detail oriented in communication and applied practices. |
LEVELS OF EXPERIENCE AS DEFINED BY GRAND SLAM EQUESTRIAN
BEGINNER RIDERA beginner rider is defined as one who does NOT have complete control over themselves or the horse at any given time while mounted or unmounted.
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INTERMEDIATE RIDERAn intermediate rider is defined as having complete control of themselves most of the time and complete control of the horse (mounted or unmounted) some of the time.
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ADVANCED RIDERAn advanced rider is defined as a rider who has complete control of themselves and the horse most of the time when mounted or unmounted.
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New lesson students are taught in private lessons, regardless of past experience. Intermediate and Advanced students are taught privately or in small groups of 2-4 riders. Riders must take lessons twice per week, meet a level of proficiency as determined by Grand Slam Equestrian and/or be leasing a horse in order to horse show. If riders are looking to ride more than three days a week or jump a particular height, then leasing or purchasing is a rewarding transition.
TYPES OF INSTRUCTION OFFERED
Grand Slam Equestrian provides instruction that spans multiple disciplines on a daily basis. This is something that makes us unique. We do not limit instruction solely to a particular discipline as defined below.
DRESSAGETraditional Dressage
Western Dressage Dressage is considered the highest level of Equitation. It is the art of riding and training a horse in a manner that develops obedience, flexibility and balance. These foundational concepts allow the horse and rider to perform in unison. |
HUNTERSThe hunter divisions are a branch of horse show competition that is judged on the horse's performance, soundness, conformation, suitability, and manners.
The show hunters emulate the early fox hunters. The jumps are of natural colors and materials such as logs & greenery which would be common in the hunt field. |
EQUITATIONHunt seat equitation is judged on the riders ability to navigate a horse through a course of jumps and on the flat. Horses and riders are asked more technical questions such as tighter turns, riding without stirrups, etc. Depending on the level of competition, the jumps may be of hunter or jumper type.
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JUMPERSThe jumper discipline focuses on speed, accuracy, and agility as a horse and rider navigate colorful, adjustable jumps. The goal is to complete the course with the fastest time and the fewest faults, which can be incurred for knocking down rails, refusing a jump, or exceeding the time limit.
This discipline requires precise riding, quick decision-making, and athleticism from both horse and rider. |
INTRODUCTORY LESSON PRICING
We only offer Private Introductory Lessons to potential clients who are new to our facility and horses. Introductory lessons last 1-1.5 hours and cost $200. To best support our students' progress and horsemanship journey, Grand Slam Equestrian operates as a tuition-based program. We are not currently offering one-time or single lessons, as our schedule is reserved for those enrolled in ongoing instruction. Progress requires practice.
