Meet our Instructors
Guided by a strong faith, Karen and Becky express their calling to serve by using their inherent abilities, developed skills, and love of horses and people to serve the community through education and training.
Becky Maticic, Founder & Director
Becky has been an avid horseman since the age of 10. Growing up training horses, galloping at racetracks and operating her own training/boarding facility for over 20 years, has given her a vast insight not only to the nature of horses but the relationship they share with humans. It was only after she became a widow with 2 young boys that she discovered what was most important and found her own purpose in this life. She has since established her new farm, New Leaf Acres, in Keymar, MD, in hopes of inspiring and strengthening others.
“Throw your heart over the fence, and your horse will follow...” ~ Becky Maticic
Karen Bates, Assistant Trainer
Karen has developed a unique and well-rounded perspective through her educational and professional experiences that sets her apart from other horseman, and that's saddle fitting. This, as well as a degree in teaching, gives her the ideal background to not only fit saddles, but to educate her clients on the importance of good fit and how to achieve it. Karen's keen awareness that correct saddle fit can transform the ability of a horse to move freely and the rider to sit in balance has compelled her to become educated in formal saddle fitting techniques as well as a riding coach!