Ella Branson
I am pleased to nominate and offer my strongest recommendation for Ella Branson for this year’s East Tennessee Hunter Jumper Association Sportsmanship Award. Throughout the many years that Ella has been my student and participated in ETHJA competitions, she has consistently demonstrated the qualities of integrity, respect, and kindness that define true sportsmanship. Ella stands out not only for her dedication and effort in the ring, but also for her exemplary conduct outside of it. She treats fellow riders, trainers, judges, and volunteers with respect, regardless of outcome. Wins are met with humility, and frustrations and challenges are handled with grace and maturity beyond her 15 years.
Ella is quick to encourage others, congratulate competitors, and offer help when needed—whether that means supporting a nervous rider, assisting around the barn, or showing patience and care toward her horse. Her positive attitude and fairness contribute to a welcoming and supportive show atmosphere, reflecting the very values ETHJA strives to promote. I asked a fellow junior rider in our barn to describe Ella, and this was her response, “Ella Branson has been an inspiration to me since I met her several years ago. She is always so supportive to her teammates and others around her. At shows, I watch her go out of her way to make others feel better, always putting their needs above her own. As her friend and teammate, I have had my own moments where she is the only person who can help me feel better. Ella is kind, empathetic, and everyone’s biggest supporter. I am honored to ride with her, and call her my friend.”
Perhaps most importantly, Ella demonstrates excellent horsemanship. She places the well-being of her horse first, showing responsibility, compassion, and thoughtful decision-making both in training and competition. This respect and love for the horses that make this sport possible serves as a strong example for riders of all ages. I could give example after example of Ella’s hard work, encouraging spirit, and sportsmanship, and anyone who has met and spent any time around Ella can surely add their own stories. I cannot think of another individual who is more deserving of this award, and I encourage you to vote for Ella Branson as this year’s recipient of the East Tennessee Hunter Jumper Association Sportsmanship Award.
Audrina McCall
I would like to nominate Audrina McCall for the 2025 ETHJA Sportsmanship Award.
Audrina is 11 years old and is a truly exceptional young equestrian who consistently demonstrates outstanding sportsmanship both in and out of the ring. She is kind, respectful, and encouraging to her fellow competitors, always cheering others on and celebrating their successes as genuinely as her own. Win or lose, Audrina approaches every experience with a positive attitude, grace, and maturity well beyond her years.
One of the most noticeable things about Audrina is her constant smile. Whether she is warming up, competing, or watching her friends ride, Audrina’s happiness and joy for the sport are always evident and frequently commented on by those around her. Her positive energy lifts everyone and creates a welcoming atmosphere wherever she goes.
Audrina also stands out because she is not part of a large show barn. This has helped her develop independence, humility, and a deep appreciation for every opportunity she is given. She learns to support herself and others, value hard work, and focus on personal growth rather than comparison. This environment has strengthened her character and further shaped the genuine sportsmanship she shows every day.
Equally important is the care and respect she shows for her horse. Audrina always puts her horse’s well-being first and takes pride in being a thoughtful, responsible partner. Her empathy, work ethic, and love for the sport shine through in everything she does.
Audrina truly represents the very best values of horsemanship and sportsmanship and is a wonderful ambassador for our sport. She would be an incredibly deserving recipient of the 2025 ETHJA Sportsmanship Award.
Laila Smith
I am honored to nominate Laila Smith for this year’s ETHJA Sportsmanship Award. Whether she is having a successful day in the show ring or facing challenges, Laila consistently approaches every experience with a positive attitude, a genuine smile, and an evident love for horses and the sport. For Laila, riding is far more than competition — it is a way of life.
Laila willingly rides any horse or pony placed in front of her and gives each one her very best effort. She treats every ride as a learning opportunity, applying feedback and experience to improve each time she enters the ring. Her dedication, adaptability, and work ethic reflect maturity beyond her years and a sincere commitment to becoming a better rider and horsewoman.
Outside of the ring, Laila exemplifies true sportsmanship. She is always eager to help others in the barn, whether assisting a young, new rider or supporting a more experienced teammate. She willingly takes on barn responsibilities — including the less glamorous tasks — and does so with a positive attitude and a smile. Laila is a supportive and dependable presence, contributing to a welcoming and encouraging environment for everyone around her.
Perhaps most importantly, Laila is a strong advocate for her equine partners. She consistently puts the well-being of her horses and ponies first, demonstrating kindness, responsibility, and respect in her daily care and training. Her thoughtful horsemanship and genuine compassion are evident to anyone who observes her, and it is clear that both horses and riders benefit from her presence.
Laila Smith truly embodies the values of sportsmanship, horsemanship, and integrity that this award represents. She is a wonderful ambassador for our sport and highly deserving of recognition through the ETHJA Sportsmanship Award.
Please submit your vote below. Each member is allowed 1 vote. If you have a family membership, please put that in the member name box (Example: John Smith Family) and note the number of votes for each nominee. Thanks for voting!