Meet the Staff at Summer Breeze Stables in Milton, PA
Get to Know the Experts Behind Summer Breeze Stables
At Summer Breeze Stables in Milton, PA, our knowledgeable and passionate staff are here to provide exceptional care and guidance for both riders and horses. With years of experience and a commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere, we ensure every visit is a rewarding experience. If you’re learning to ride, boarding your horse, or attending one of our events, you’ll always be met with friendly faces. Contact us online or call us at (570) 412-0771 to learn more about our team and services!
Meet the Staff
Ryan Helmecki: Ryan is the stable manager and one of three instructors/trainers at Summer Breeze. He started at the stables in 2018, pursuing his career in equine care, riding, training, and instructing. Finding his passion and love for horses at a very young age, Ryan chose to turn his passion into a full-time career. Studying equestrian science at DVU and also riding at Summer Breeze with head trainer Jan Phillips, he was able to practice and further his knowledge in jumping hunt-seat equitation and level one-two in dressage. He is currently teaching beginner and amateur riders.
Crystal Devine: Crystal got her start at the age of 14, riding for Jan Phillips as a beginner rider. She has worked part-time and full-time at Summer Breeze over the last 20 years. During her career at the stables, Crystal has shown an exceptional talent in breaking and training horses of all ages and breeds. She has spent her time reading books, attending clinics and riding/competing under Jan with other trainers’ guidance to further her industry knowledge and excel in equine care, riding, training, instructing, and competing. Crystal is currently showing horses and teaching riders of all advancements at Summer Breeze.
Jan Phillips: After graduating from Montoursville Area High School in 1972, Jan traveled to England to train at the renowned Porlock Vale Equestrian Centre. There, she earned her Horse Master’s and became a certified instructor, qualified in equitation, stable management, and minor injury care. After marrying her husband Harry, they moved to Milton, PA, and bought 47 acres of “nothing but cornfield” in 1973. The site would become Summer Breeze Stables in 1976 opening with just four stalls. Over time, they grew the business into a stable with 32 stalls, an outdoor arena, a full-size, lighted indoor arena with a heated viewing lounge, a wash bat, and acres of turnout pastures.
Jan earned a certificate from the United States Hunter Jumper Association in 2015. Jan’s many accomplishments include training numerous A-circuit champion riders and horses, 4-H State Champions, a Grand Junior Hunter Zone II Champion, and multiple grand and reserve champions within the Central Pennsylvania Hunter Circuit.
