Melody Jacobs
RDA Australia Level 2 Coach and National Assessor
RDA Samford Horse Manager and Senior Coach
Melody
With over 20 years’ experience in the equestrian industry, Melody Jacobs is a respected RDA Level 2 Coach and National Assessor, known for her strong commitment to evidence‑based coaching and inclusive practice. A dedicated coach at Samford RDA for more than 15 years, Melody currently serves as Senior Coach and Horse Manager, overseeing horse welfare, training programs, and coaching standards.
Melody is passionate about helping coaches develop strong fundamentals, with a focus on clear communication, confidence‑building, and well‑structured, engaging lessons for riders of all abilities. She is also a strong advocate for high standards of horse care within riding school environments, recognising the vital link between horse welfare, coach development, and participant experience.
At a broader level, Melody supports the RDA network through centre accreditations, coach training, assessments, and workshops for RDAQ, contributing to the ongoing delivery of safe, sustainable, and high‑quality inclusive equestrian programs.
Session Details
Every rider brings their own story, strengths, and challenges to the arena. This session explores how coaches can confidently and safely support riders with physical and neurological disabilities, using a rider‑centred approach grounded in inclusion, clarity, and good coaching practice.
Melody Jacobs will focus on translating medical and physical understanding into practical coaching strategies that can be applied immediately in sessions and programs. Drawing on extensive experience as a senior coach and assessor, Melody will explore how clear communication, lesson structure, and thoughtful session design support confidence, consistency, and positive learning experiences for riders of all abilities.
Designed to be highly practical, this session will support coaches to refine how they adapt their coaching, strengthen fundamentals, and deliver safe, engaging, and inclusive sessions for truly unique clients.
See Melody
Saturday 25 July
Victoria Pavillion
Session Presenter