ITTY GRITTY 2026-27 Curriculum

The ITTY GRITTY curriculum is designed to provide younger athletes with the support, education, and mentorship they need during the early stages of their development. Through age-appropriate programming, athletes build the foundational skills, confidence, and performance habits that support long-term success in sport while fostering a lifelong passion for equestrian. By preparing athletes earlier in their development journey, ITTY GRITTY helps them transition with confidence into future high-performance opportunities, including the GRIT pathway.

In addition to the monthly curriculum, ITTY GRITTY athletes will receive access to a customized Strength & Conditioning (S&C) program developed and overseen by the GRIT Strength & Conditioning Coach.

Annual Athlete Development Curriculum

The ITTY GRITTY curriculum is designed to support athletes aged 10–13 through a balanced combination of virtual education, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences. The program follows the annual calendar and focuses on developing well-rounded athletes.

Curriculum Themes

The curriculum is organized around four key areas of athlete development:

Mindset - Develop confidence, goal-setting skills, and a positive mindset while introducing athletes and families to the expectations of the program.

Horsemanship - Develop horse care knowledge and an understanding of responsible horsemanship while learning from experienced athletes and coaches.

Performance - Introduce age-appropriate concepts in nutrition, physical preparation, and mental performance to establish healthy habits that support long-term athletic development.

Community - Create meaningful connections with peers, GRIT athletes, coaches, and families while fostering sportsmanship, leadership, and a sense of belonging within the Ontario equestrian community.

Overall Program Includes:

• Monthly virtual education sessions
• Two in-person development experiences
• GRIT athlete mentorship opportunities
• Year-round TeamBuildr Strength & Conditioning program
• Parent education and support
• Access to athlete resources and educational materials

2026 Program Launch

September 2026

Program Kick-Off & Orientation (45 min)

• Meet the ITTY GRITTY support staff
• Orientation for athletes, families, and personal coaches
• Reviewing expectations
• Preparation for the Fall Camp

Delivery: Virtual

October 16-18 2026

ITTY GRITTY Launch: Fall Training Camp

• Official program commencement and welcome
• Networking with peers and families
• Mounted and unmounted educational sessions
• Introductory sport science concepts
• Mentorship through GRIT athlete engagement
• Distribution of team apparel and resources

Delivery: In Person (Adena Springs North)

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2027 Curriculum

February

Season Kick-Off & Orientation

• Meet the integrated support team

• Program expectations

• Communication and season overview

Delivery: Virtual (45 min)

March

Goal Setting & Athlete Mindset

• Setting personal goals

• Growth mindset

• Athlete goal tracking

Delivery: Virtual (45 min)

April

Audit the GRIT Spring Training Camp

• Observe elite athletes and coaches

• Guided observation activity

Delivery: In Person

May

Horse Management & Competition Preparation

• Horse wellness

• Grooming and turnout

• Tack checks

• Biosecurity and horse care

Delivery: Virtual (45 min)

June

Fueling Performance

• Nutrition for young athletes

• Hydration

Delivery: Virtual (45 min)

July

Strength & Conditioning Fundamentals

• Movement quality

• Injury prevention

• Age-appropriate exercises athletes can do at home

Delivery: Virtual (45 min)

August

GRIT Athlete Panel & Mentorship Session

• Hear from current GRIT athletes and coaches

• Preparing for Fall Camp

• Questions & answers

Delivery: Virtual (45 min)

September

Mental Performance

• Confidence

• Managing nerves

• Receiving feedback

• Preparing for camp

Delivery: Virtual (45 min)

October

ITTY GRITTY Fall Training Camp

• Mounted and unmounted education

• Education

• Athlete development activities

Delivery: In Person

November

Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Experience

• Observe high-performance competition

• Behind-the-scenes learning opportunities

Delivery: In Person

December

Year-End Celebration & Goal Reflection

• Celebrate achievements

• Reflect on progress

• Set goals for the coming year

Delivery: In Person - Ontario Equestrian Office

Athlete Recognition

Throughout the year, athletes can work toward completing stages of the program while developing new knowledge and skills.

Milestones may include:

• Goal Setter
• Horse Care
• Fueling for Performance 
• Strong Athlete
• Mindset Builder
• Great Teammate
• GRIT Observer
• Fall Camp Graduate