An important factor in the club's success this year was Coach Robin Null, who teaches lessons at the Pleasant Hill Stable where the club practices. The club was able to hire a coach for the first time this year after the Student Associa tion increased its allocation. Gerber, who has been riding with the club for three years, said finding sufficient funding is always difficult. The SA covers transportation to the competitions and show fees. For practice and for home tournaments, the Colonials ride horses at the Pleasant Hill Stable.
Competition allows for various levels of riding, including beginners.
In order to compete, individual riding teams must be a member of the IHSA, Gerber explained. For those who thought that sword-fighting just took place on the silver screen, think again. Binghamton University offers a fencing club for those who want to test their parrying and thrusting skills. The team, composed of about 30 members with an equal number of male and female students, practices 10 to 12 hours a week. With few experienced fencers to draw from, the club welcomes beginners, said senior Alyse Berger, club presi dent.