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Kendall Crutchfield began her professional equine career as a Breeding Manager for a Maryland based international Friesian facility in 2007. There, she had the opportunity to train and work closely with FEI international trainer and USDF Bronze and Silver Medalist Julio Mendoza (Mendoza Dressage).

Alongside Julio, Kendall developed her training and riding foundation as well as her horsemanship skills by handling stallions, mares and foals, and working with young prospects daily. She participated in preparing stallions and foals/yearlings for inspections and started young horses under saddle.  Kendall relocated to Texas in 2009 to begin teaching privately and train personally with several top hunter and jumper trainers.

Throughout her riding and training career, Kendall has shown on USEF “A” Circuits, successfully competing on both her own young prospects and client horses. In 2011, Kendall launched her own training business and lesson program, Paragon Performance Horses. She specialized primarily in starting young prospects and training beginner to intermediate level students.  Her students have shown successfully on the local and national levels in the Hunt Seat disciplines.

Kendall attended the private military institute Norwich University in Northfield VT, participating in the Army ROTC program for 4 years. Extensive military training and leadership opportunities have benefited her ability to work with children and adults in a schooling environment.  Kendall is committed to teaching riders the value of true horsemanship- both in and out of the saddle. Her students learn everything from basic horse care to the responsibilities of horse ownership and thrive under her tutelage.

Mount Holyoke College is a family affair for Kendall! Her younger sister, Taylor Hedges, is an alum, class of 2012! Kendall has always revered the MHC equestrian programs and is truly honored to now be a member of such a prestigious team. As a professional, a teacher, and as a coach, she is ready to lead the MHC IEA team to victory! 

Kendall was raised not far from the MHC campus, in Longmeadow, MA. She now resides in Chicopee Falls with her 4 year old son Jacob Christopher.