Tell us a little about yourself (your location, awards/other certifications you hold, etc):
I live in Omaha, Nebraska, and have proudly owned my training barn, Coda Cavallo Dressage for five years. I am a USDF Certified Instructor through Second Level, USDF Bronze Medalist, and most recently, L Graduate with Distinction. I look forward to working my horses up the levels to further my judging and instructor goals!
How long have you been involved in the sport?
I’ve ridden all my life and started dressage lessons at age 7, but I really only feel like I “got it” over the past five years or so. It helps being out of college and owning your own horses, facility, etc.!
How long have you been a USDF member?
I’ve been a USDF member for probably almost 25 years. Fortunately, my mom competed at USDF-recognized shows when I was beginning to ride, so horses, memberships, and competition life were pretty normal from an early age!
What made you decide to participate in the USDF L Education Program?
I had ridden as a demonstration rider several times when our local Group Member Organization (GMO) hosted it, but that was the same year I was getting married and buying the farm. At the time, I loved the information and thought the little tidbits I received as a rider and auditor were fantastic feedback as a competitor and trainer. I was just “too busy” at that time to pursue full participation. My friends in Oklahoma were organizing and participating in the program in 2022-2023, and I figured that life never calms down, so now is my shot! I went through the program VERY pregnant – and then with a newborn – in under two years.
I loved participating, mainly because I got to see my friends so often! We had a fantastic study group session via group text, through which we have stayed in touch over the past two years. Besides that, the education and structure USDF has invested in this program are invaluable for all riders.
How long did it take to complete the program, start to finish?
I completed the program between May 2022 and August 2023, taking just over a year.
Do you plan to further your dressage education and to continue to apply what you learned in the program to become a licensed official?
Yes, as soon as my horses develop, I am anxious to earn the scores needed to go on to my USEF ‘r’ licensing. I also wish to pursue my Instructor Certification through Fourth Level as the opportunity arises.
Do you serve as a judge for schooling shows in your capacity as an L Graduate? If so, on average, how many per year?
Yes, but I have only been an L graduate for a few months, so I have only judged one show so far! I was asked to fill in for the Grand Valley Dressage Society’s October Schooling Show at the very last minute, which was an absolute blast. It was a fun-filled two days to get my first show under my belt. I can’t wait to judge more.
What impact did the program have on your dressage knowledge?
I feel that coaching students at shows has become much easier, as I can explain the essence of test movements with ease and help them truly ride each test effectively to gain as many points as possible, regardless of whether or not they have the fanciest horse.
Name three things you took away from the program that you think every rider should know.
- You have little to no excuses not to nail your halts or reinbacks.
- Compete at a level that is appropriate for you and your horse. Don’t over-face yourself or your horse, as it leads to a loss of confidence.
- Judges REALLY DO want you to succeed! We want to give you good scores. Read your tests and make improvements from there.
Have you served in any other official capacity with USDF (council/committee member, council/committee chair, PM/GM delegate, board member/Regional Director, etc.)? Please describe.
Over my thirty-some years of existence, I have spent over half of my life on the board of my local GMO, the Nebraska Dressage Association (NDA). I’m taking a little break now to focus on professional development and “mom life.” In those years, I have been both a Participating Member (PM) and Group Member (GM) Delegate, NDA President, Vice President, Secretary, Education Chair, fundraiser, volunteer, and more! I also worked for The Dressage Foundation (TDF) as an Administrative Assistant and Director for five years after college. I “blame” (read: credit) TDF for inspiring me to pursue so many of USDF’s educational opportunities.
Tell us about your horse(s).
My horse, Galán, is an eight-year-old Azteca (⅞ Andalusian and ⅛ Quarter Horse). He was a rescue that I have now owned for two years after his life as a mostly feral stallion. It was touch and go the first year, but after we got him under saddle, he was the only horse I trusted to ride during my most pregnant days! He had his first recognized show this past fall, and competed at Training Level. He has a long way to go in his confidence, but we had moments of true brilliance!
Contact Jane:
Email: jfucinaro@gmail.com
Phone: 402-504-8113
Website: www.jfequestrian.com
Facebook: Coda Cavallo Dressage
