Horse Youth Programs

Equestrian Youth Opportunities at the NWSS

The Horse Show strives to support the National Western’s overall mission of supporting youth and education within our agricultural industry. We host several events and programs in a variety of areas for local youth to experience different parts of this premier horse show and earn scholarship money.


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Junior Apprentice Committee
Mentor Matchup

The Junior Apprentice Committee provides professional, hands-on experience to local equestrians and involve them in the networking and educational opportunities of Stock Show while supporting the overall mission and activities. Details and applications will be available beginning August 1st with applications due September 30th.

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2024 Junior Apprentice Committee Specifications - for reference

Applications closed
Youth Ranch Horse Mentor Matchup
Mentor Matchup

Event Date: TBA | Events Center, CINCH Arena

This event provides an opportunity for local equestrian youth to learn and compete during NWSS through relevant hands–on educational activities with their equine partner and top equine professionals. Applications will be available beginning August 1st and be accepted until October 31st.

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2024 Mentor Matchup Specifications - for reference

Applications Closed
Youth Freestyle Reining Showcase
Youth Freestyle Reining

Event Date: TBA | Events Center, CINCH Arena

This event provides local youth within the equine industry an opportunity to showcase their talents in freestyle reining and be recognized during a prestigious event at the National Western Stock Show. Selected youth will perform prior to the RAM Invitational Freestyle Reining. Applications will be available beginning August 1st and be accepted until September 30th.

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2024 Youth Freestyle Reining Specifications - for reference

applications closed

Youth Equestrian Showcase (YES) Scholarship Program
2020 YES winners

The National Western Stock Show Youth Equestrian Showcase (Y.E.S.) scholarship program is intended to recognize and support our local equestrian youth and involve them in the educational opportunities of the NWSS. Applications will be available beginning Augsut 1st and be accepted until September 30th.

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2024 Youth Equestrian Showcase Specifications - for reference

Applications closed
Internship Opportunities
Equine Event Internship

Spring-Summer (June-August)
This internship will provide students an opportunity to be immersed in event planning through various tasks preparing for the annual NWSS Horse Show as well as third-party managed equestrian events hosted at the National Western Complex throughout the year (Complex Events).

Applicants may receive credit through their school, university or institution. This internship is unpaid.

The target date to complete hours is between June 1st to August 30th with flexibility. Read the full description prior to submitting your resume and cover letter. Email both to [email protected] no later than April 15th to be considered.

For more information or to apply for the winter NWSS Internships, check out: Internship Program.

Stock Show College Internship Opportunity

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Western National Roundup

Event Date: January 2025

Western National Roundup provides a place for youth to compete nationally while encouraging teamwork. This national youth development conference hosts 4-H & FFA youth from around North America and offers them workshops, networking, and fun in addition to national competitions. National Western proudly hosts the national horse judging and hippology contests.

Contact the Colorado 4-H State Office for more information.

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