The Auburn equestrian team received four Southeastern Conference Rider of the Year honors and had nine student-athletes recognized by the league, according to an announcement on Apr. 9.
These awards highlight individual achievements within the Auburn program during the season. Head coach Jessica Braswell said, “I’m really proud of these conference recognitions earned by our student-athletes. We have had some outstanding individual seasons that have really contributed to our success so far.”
Auburn’s recognitions included two Rider of the Year awards and two Freshman Rider of the Year accolades. In total, nine athletes combined for 14 All-SEC and SEC All-Freshman team honors. Braswell said, “Having all four Jumping Seat Rider of the Year honors and all these All-SEC selections is a testament to the hard work this team has put in.”
Braswell was named SEC Coach of the Year for her second time in three years with Auburn. She said, “It’s an absolute honor to receive this award and be recognized by my peers. This is a testament to our staff and how hard they all work for the success of this program.” Under her leadership, Auburn enters the national championship as No. 1 seed with a 9-3 overall record.
Freshman Caroline Olsen earned Co-Fences Rider of the Year, Freshman Fences Rider of the Year, and Freshman Flat Rider of the Year honors after achieving a strong record in both events throughout regular season play against conference opponents.
Other honorees include junior Avery Glynn as SEC Flat Rider of the Year; sophomore Ariana Marnell on All-SEC for Fences; senior Alexia Tordoff earning All-SEC in Horsemanship and Reining; seniors Caroline Fredenburg (Horsemanship) and Caroline Buchanan (Reining); junior Brooke Jolstad (Horsemanship); freshman Emily Jurnovoy (Fences); and freshman Sofia Tieche (Reining).
The awards recognize both experienced athletes finishing their collegiate careers as well as freshmen making significant contributions in their first year.
