Meadowbrook Riding Academy
Meet Our Incredible Team
Professionals with Extensive Horse Experience
From training World Championship winners, stewarding some of the nation's largest horse shows, to creating memorable experiences through fun shows, camps, barn events, and lessons—our team offers versatile expertise to help accomplish your equestrian dreams, whatever they may be.
Darlene DeBlois
Darlene DeBlois is the Director of the Meadowbrook Riding Academy and Lead Riding Instructor. Darlene grew up on her parents horse farm, Dar-Col Stables, and has been riding since she was 3 years old. She opened her professional horse business, taking over her parents farm in 1983, building a remarkable career spanning more than 40 years. She expanded her contributions in the horse industry by becoming a United States Equestrian Federal Judge and Steward, stewarding the World's Championship American Saddlebred Horse Show in 2024, as well as local, regional, and national horse shows.
Darlene has trained countless riders and horses, earning her first Grand National title in 1985, to her most recent rider earning the Reserve World Championship in 2025. In recognition of her outstanding dedication to teaching, she was honored with the 2019 United Professional Horsemen's Association Riding Instructor of the Year Award. Darlene has won numerous sportsmanship awards, though she is most proud of the riders who have earned sportsmanship awards under her guidance for their dedication to the sport and true love of horses. Several of her former students have even gone on to become professional trainers themselves, a testament to her lasting influence as both instructor and mentor, and lifelong dedication to horses and those that share this passion.
Jessica Verrill
Jessica Verrill is the owner of Verrill Stables Training and Riding Instructor of Meadowbrook Riding Academy. With over 30 years experience, she has created an environment that welcomes horse enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. In 2004, Jessica tried out and made the World Cup Team, bringing her to compete in South Africa. She represented the USA Saddle Seat Five Gaited Team, winning and bringing home the gold. Over the years, she successfully built her horse and rider training program, bringing numerous exhibitors to the World Championships, as well as regional and other national shows. Jessica is most passionate about instilling self-confidence, while helping us understand patience and respect to build a great team with horse and rider.
Samantha Pellerin
Samantha is the Assistant Trainer of Verrill Stables Training and Riding Instructor of Meadowbrook Riding Academy. She began riding at 5 years old and has spent over 20 years training and teaching professionally. Samantha is passionate about creating strong, respectful bonds between horse and rider, while emphasizing safety, confidence, and fun at every stage of learning. Her thoughtful, encouraging approach helps riders grow not only in skill, but in trust and connection with their horses. Samatha takes great pride in the values she portrays: respect, faith, kindness, hard work, and a deep love for animals.
Shaley Bergeron
Shaley is part of the Verrill Stables Training Team and Riding Instructor of Meadowbrook Riding Academy. Shaley has been riding since the age of 10, and has been immersed in the horse industry ever since. She has built her career around teaching and sharing her knowledge with riders of all ages and experience levels. Outside of teaching, she loves spending time with her Hackney pony, Glitter, showing nationally with the team. Shaley enjoys teaching horsemanship, safety, and trust between horse and rider to her students.
