It started with a vision.

Oregon High School Equestrian Teams (OHSET) started with a vision for high school students. This vision saw a competitive outlet for students who loved horses and sought equal recognition to other athletic programs. What founding members didn’t foresee was the impact this program would have on thousands of students lives and communities. OHSET has created a niche for students, some who had never previously participated in school activities, and many did not see themselves as a part of their school community.

The founding father is Glen Litwiller in Southern Oregon. Glen and several others started by bringing Southern Oregon High Schools Equestrian Teams (SOHSET) to life in 1993. Each school was a team, competing in both individual and team events, making points for their school (much like today). In 1995, SOHSET got their first recognition from high schools in their area.

Others around the state began to hear of this great idea. In 1996, the Boettiger and Hansey families began the Pleasant Hill High School Equestrian Team. Shortly after (1997) the Mid Valley District was born.

April 11, 1998 marked the first official State Board Meeting and inception of Oregon High School Equestrian Team. A small regional Southern Oregon program grew to be statewide program with Southern, Mid Valley and Northern districts, 35 schools and 186 riders.

Much has happened since inception. Countless hours and dedication from many have made OHSET the thriving organization it is today. There are now 8 districts, 112 high schools and hundreds of riders participating each year. Above all, the team camaraderie and relationships built are enough to consider this program a massive success. Not to mention the riders that go on to compete at the collegiate level or pursue a career in the equestrian industry.

OHSET is proud of its rich history and we press on towards the same vision: reaching high school riders across the state of Oregon.