Be on time. Nothing stresses out a volunteer coordinator more than it being 5 minutes to show start and a volunteer hasn’t checked in for an important position. Most volunteer jobs ask that you report 30 minutes prior to shift start.

Meet up at the designated report spot. Most likely, several volunteers are checking in at the same time. If you go straight to your job location, like ingate, then the chief or coordinator has to chase you down, adding more work to their day.

Listen to the briefing given by your chief or coordinator, even if you are experienced with this position. They may not know you, or you experience level, and they may have certain information pertinent to that particular show, or a routine to follow, like pre-loading in stadium.

Use the radio correctly. Hold the PTT (Push to Talk) button down for a second before speaking to avoid the beginning of your transmission being missed. Do not talk on radio when someone else is transmitting or neither of you get through. Be concise so you don’t tie up the frequency. Try not to make radio calls when the announcer is speaking. 

Be aware of the job requirements. If jump crew, you will have to lift rails, and move standards. If ingate, you will be on your feet most of the day. If scribing, you will have to write legibly for hours. Pick jobs suited to your physical ability.

Bring things with you that you might need. If scribing, bring an extra pen. If cross country jump judging, bring sunscreen, a raincoat and a chair. Some expert volunteers bring their own dry erase board for warm-up.

Work well with others. You could be on a team, like if jump crew. You could be in a coordination role, like warm up steward to ingate, that requires accurate communication. It is also a good idea to know who to call if you have a problem, or need a bathroom break. 

Be friendly. Competitors are often nervous so be patient, and helpful. They spent a lot of time, money, and effort to be at the show. It should be a positive experience for them. There are a ton of volunteers, some experienced and some not, but all there to help, so be appreciative of their contribution, and polite to them.

Submit hours. USEA and MSEDA want to reward volunteers. Submit your hours to qualify for year end awards, and special volunteer awards. Competitors may be the heart of a horse trial, but the back bone is its volunteers. Not one show could happen without the generosity, and the hard work of the volunteers.

Have fun! Competitions are the chance to be with our people. You get to see friends, watch rides, and usually, learn something. We are so lucky to have amazing venues, coaches, and officials in our midst, so enjoy the experience. Lastly, thanks for volunteering!