Building Riders & Champions at the Minnesota POA Club
A POA community where riders and families grow and compete together.
The Pony of the Americas (POA) is a versatile American pony breed known for its striking Appaloosa coat patterns, athletic ability, and excellent temperament, making it the ideal mount for both youth and adult riders. Established in 1954 in Iowa, the breed originated when a Shetland Pony stallion was crossed with an Appaloosa/Arabian mare, producing the first POA, Black Hand. The goal was to create a mid-sized pony that combined the strength, intelligence, and agility of larger horses with the gentleness and size perfect for children and smaller adults.
Today, POAs excel in various disciplines, including Western and English riding, jumping, trail riding, and driving. They are known for their versatility, making them the perfect equine partners for riders of all ages.
At the Minnesota POA Club, we offer a family-friendly environment where riders of all levels support each other, form lasting friendships, and develop skills that extend far beyond the arena. Whether competing in leadline classes, jumping courses, Western pleasure, or ranch work, POAs remain a beloved choice for young riders and their families. POAs aren't just for kids—adults also participate in events like halter, in-hand trail, longe line, and select riding classes, often passing down their passion for the breed across generations.
Today, POAs excel in various disciplines, including Western and English riding, jumping, trail riding, and driving. They are known for their versatility, making them the perfect equine partners for riders of all ages.
At the Minnesota POA Club, we offer a family-friendly environment where riders of all levels support each other, form lasting friendships, and develop skills that extend far beyond the arena. Whether competing in leadline classes, jumping courses, Western pleasure, or ranch work, POAs remain a beloved choice for young riders and their families. POAs aren't just for kids—adults also participate in events like halter, in-hand trail, longe line, and select riding classes, often passing down their passion for the breed across generations.
Who We Are - Board of Directors
The Minnesota Pony of the Americas Club is driven by a passionate Board of Directors who are committed to promoting youth development, equestrian sports, and the POA breed. Our board members bring a wealth of experience in horsemanship, event organization, and community leadership, ensuring that our club continues to grow and thrive
President: Erin Johnson
Vice President: Melissa Andring
Secretary: Sara Schaefer
Treasurer: Sophie Andring
Directors at Large:
Kya Pulsipher
Heather Kessler
Tanya Dadisman
Vice President: Melissa Andring
Secretary: Sara Schaefer
Treasurer: Sophie Andring
Directors at Large:
Kya Pulsipher
Heather Kessler
Tanya Dadisman
“Try hard, win humbly, lose gracefully, and, if you must … protest with dignity."
Our Mission
The Minnesota POA Club Board is committed to:
✔ Supporting Riders & Families – Creating an inclusive, welcoming environment where riders of all ages can learn, compete, and grow.
✔ Organizing Exciting Events – Planning and executing horse shows, service projects, and family friendly activities to bring members together.
✔ Promoting the POA Breed – Showcasing the versatility, athleticism, and friendly nature of the Pony of the Americas.
✔ Encouraging Leadership & Sportsmanship – Providing opportunities for members to grow in confidence, responsibility, and lifelong friendships.
✔ Strengthening the POA Community - Building a supportive network where all members can learn, connect, and have fun while sharing a love for their ponies.
Have Questions? Want to Get Involved?
Our board is here to help! Whether you’re a new member, a longtime competitor, or just learning about POAs, we’d love to hear from you.
✔ Supporting Riders & Families – Creating an inclusive, welcoming environment where riders of all ages can learn, compete, and grow.
✔ Organizing Exciting Events – Planning and executing horse shows, service projects, and family friendly activities to bring members together.
✔ Promoting the POA Breed – Showcasing the versatility, athleticism, and friendly nature of the Pony of the Americas.
✔ Encouraging Leadership & Sportsmanship – Providing opportunities for members to grow in confidence, responsibility, and lifelong friendships.
✔ Strengthening the POA Community - Building a supportive network where all members can learn, connect, and have fun while sharing a love for their ponies.
Have Questions? Want to Get Involved?
Our board is here to help! Whether you’re a new member, a longtime competitor, or just learning about POAs, we’d love to hear from you.
Minnesota POA Royalty Program
The Minnesota POA Royalty Program recognizes outstanding youth riders who exemplify sportsmanship, leadership, and a love for POA ponies. Our Royalty serves as ambassadors for the club, promoting the POA breed, encouraging new riders, and representing Minnesota POA at shows, events, and community activities. (Pictured is 2024 Royalty)
Why Become POA Royalty?
Develop Leadership Skills – Represent POA at shows, parades, and events
Promote the POA Breed – Encourage new riders and showcase the versatility of POAs
Make Lasting Friendships – Be part of a supportive equestrian community
Gain Confidence – Speak and present at club events and share your POA passion
Why Become POA Royalty?
Develop Leadership Skills – Represent POA at shows, parades, and events
Promote the POA Breed – Encourage new riders and showcase the versatility of POAs
Make Lasting Friendships – Be part of a supportive equestrian community
Gain Confidence – Speak and present at club events and share your POA passion
Meet Our 2025 Minnesota POA Royalty
Emma Kessler
Eleanor Conn
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Sophia Conn
What does riding horses give us? An escape from the world. Exercise in fresh air. Adrenaline rushes. Healing through the bond.
– Unknown |
Quinnley Gronski
Hazel Johnson
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Stay Connected with the MN POAC NewsletterDon’t miss out on the latest news, events, and updates from the Minnesota POA Club!
Our newsletter keeps members informed about upcoming shows, rule changes, special announcements, and member highlights. Whether you’re a longtime POA enthusiast or new to the breed, our newsletter is a great way to stay engaged with the Minnesota POAC community. Be the first to hear about year-end awards, exciting club happenings, and ways to get involved! |
Leading with Heart, Fun, and Community Spirit
Minnesota POA Royalty isn’t just about riding and competition—it’s about giving back, building friendships, and making a positive impact in our community. Each year, our royalty lead initiatives that support local causes while keeping the fun going with creative and engaging events! Our royalty and club members believe in making a difference beyond the arena. Some of our favorite ways to give back include:
🎒 School Supply Drives – Collecting backpacks, notebooks, and classroom essentials to support local students in need.
🐶 Helping Local Animal Shelters – Donating food, toys, blankets, and supplies to help animals at the local humane society.
🛏️ Making Blankets for the Ronald McDonald House – Crafting cozy blankets to provide comfort and warmth to families in need at the local Ronald McDonald House.
💖 Volunteer Projects – Lending a helping hand at community events and supporting causes that matter to our members.
🎒 School Supply Drives – Collecting backpacks, notebooks, and classroom essentials to support local students in need.
🐶 Helping Local Animal Shelters – Donating food, toys, blankets, and supplies to help animals at the local humane society.
🛏️ Making Blankets for the Ronald McDonald House – Crafting cozy blankets to provide comfort and warmth to families in need at the local Ronald McDonald House.
💖 Volunteer Projects – Lending a helping hand at community events and supporting causes that matter to our members.
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