NSBYA Spotlight on Intercollegiate Riding

NSBA News

Riding for the Team

By: Kendie Herlocker

Many believe that their riding years are over when they attend college, unless you manage to live close to your barn, or you continue to ride after college. But, there are over 15 division one schools offering an equestrian team. Some schools that have teams include Auburn University, Baylor University, Georgia, Oklahoma State University, University of South Carolina, South Dakota State University, Southern Methodist University in Texas, and Texas A&M.

On the team you can compete in four divisions: Horsemanship, Reining, Equitation On The Flat, and Jumping. You get the perks of every athlete, and you get the benefit of being on a team with people you share a common love for horses. Throughout the year, you compete at different colleges, and then compete in the school’s own conference, and then compete at nationals that’s held in Waco, Texas.

If being on a team interests you, the best way to get coaches’ attention is to email them and send videos. Some colleges also hold camps you can go ride at. Once you get to junior year is when coaches start recruiting, and you can verbally commit. Usually, you verbally commit your junior year, and then you can’t officially sign until your senior year. If college riding is something you think you would like, I encourage you to look into it, because it lets you continue riding and gives you a great experience.

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