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SIDELINESMAGAZINE | November/December 2026
S I D E L I N E S • 2 0 2 6 H O R S E P E O P L E O F T H E Y E A R
MADDY SCOTT
Madeleine Scott is truly deserving of the Horsepeople of the Year recognition because she embodies everything that great horsemanship
represents. She is not only an exceptional rider and trainer, but also an outstanding mentor, leader and advocate for both horses and riders. One of
Maddy’s greatest strengths is her unwavering commitment to putting the horse first. Every training decision she makes is centered on the horse’s
physical and mental well-being. She recognizes that every horse is an individual and develops training programs that build confidence, encourage
partnership and allow each horse to reach its full potential without sacrificing welfare for results. Her patience, feel and ability to listen to what a
horse is telling her are qualities that cannot be taught; they are the foundation of true horsemanship.
As a coach, Maddy has an extraordinary ability to bring out the best in every rider, regardless of age or experience. She creates an environment
where riders feel challenged, supported and encouraged to grow. She celebrates successes, learns from setbacks and teaches her students that
resilience, preparation and sportsmanship are just as important as ribbons and titles. She instills confidence in her riders while also holding them
to high standards, helping them become not only better competitors but better horsemen and horsewomen. Maddy also leads by example. She
is one of the hardest-working people in the barn, consistently demonstrating professionalism, integrity and humility. Whether she is preparing
horses, coaching at competitions or helping a nervous student before entering the dressage arena, she gives each person and horse her full
attention. Her dedication extends far beyond competition weekends; she invests countless hours ensuring that every horse receives exceptional
care and that every rider has the tools they need to succeed. Personally, I have watched Maddy transform riders through her thoughtful coaching.
My daughter, Nicole, has flourished under her guidance. Maddy has taught her that success isn’t simply about winning; it is about building a
partnership with your horse, learning from every ride and continually striving to improve. Over the past year and a half, she has helped Nicole
and Stormi develop into a competitive partnership capable of successfully moving up to the Modified level and competing at FEI events. More
importantly, she has helped Nicole grow in confidence, maturity and horsemanship.
What sets Maddy apart is that she genuinely cares. She celebrates every student’s accomplishments as though they were her own,
supports students through disappointments and always prioritizes the welfare of the horses entrusted to her care. Her kindness, work ethic,
professionalism and unwavering dedication make a lasting impact on everyone around her.
Horsepeople of the Year should recognize someone who exemplifies excellence not only through competitive success but through character,
leadership, mentorship and an unwavering commitment to the horse. Madeleine Scott represents all of these qualities every single day. She has
made a profound difference in the lives of countless horses and riders, and there is no one more deserving of this honor.
~Jessica Nair
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SIDELINESMAGAZINE | November/December 2026