Jennifer McGrath Hired as Gamecocks Western Assistant Coach

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina head coach Boo Major has announced the hiring of Jennifer McGrath as the new assistant coach for the Gamecocks’ Western squad.

McGrath comes to Carolina with over 30 years of experience within the equine industry. McGrath not only runs her own business, Jennifer McGrath Performance Horses (since 2008), but has also been heavily involved with both the Texas Quarter Horse Association and the Tennessee Quarter Horse Association.

“I am honored and excited to coach for the University of South Carolina,” McGrath stated. “Coaching a NCEA Equestrian Team has been a long-time goal of mine. Thank you to all those who supported me in this journey. I can’t wait to get started.”

Stepping into the college coaching world, McGrath assisted the Middle Tennessee State University Equine Program. She served as a leader with the team and helped coach the IHSA team at regional and national competitions. McGrath also gained college experience at Northwest College in Powell, Wyo.

“I am extremely happy to welcome Jennifer to our team as our new assistant coach specializing in our western events,” Major said. “She will be in charge of recruiting, practice and all other aspects of the Western program. She is an excellent hire for this position. Jennifer has a solid all-around background and is working toward completing her AQHA judges license in the near future.

“With her vast knowledge of the sport as a rider, a trainer and her connections in the equine industry we are in a win-win situation with our continued success of raising the bar in NCEA equestrian. We are happy to welcome Jennifer to Gamecock country.”

McGrath has seen many successes in the ring over the years, donning a 2017 AQHYA World Champion in Western and an AQHA National Year End High Point – Youth Western. In 2016, McGrath trained a finalist in Western riding, in Hunter Under Saddle, and a top-20 place in Horsemanship at the AQHYA Youth World.

In addition to her time as the general manager of her own business and being a trainer, McGrath is also an AQHA novice judge and a member of the NSBA World Championship Show Staff. On top of everything she does, McGrath still finds time to volunteer at various shows, making herself a constant presence in the equine industry.

Continue to check back with gamecocksonline.com for more updates or follow the team on social media (@GamecockEQ).