Auburn Equestrian Opens 2025–26 Season October 4 with Championship Aspirations

October 2, 2025 - AUBURN, AL. - The Auburn University Equestrian team will open its 2025–26 season on Saturday, October 4, with a home meet against UC Davis at the Auburn University Equestrian Center. After finishing last season ranked No. 3 nationally, the Tigers enter the new campaign with high expectations and a roster stacked with returning talent and promising newcomers.

🔹 A Legacy of Excellence

Under head coach Jessica Braswell, Auburn has become a perennial powerhouse in collegiate equestrian. The program boasts four national championships (2011, 2016, 2018, 2019) and consistently ranks among the top teams in the National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA).

Braswell, entering her third season as head coach, emphasized the team's focus on consistency and mental toughness:

"We've got the talent. Now it's about execution, preparation, and riding with confidence every time we enter the ring."

🔹 Key Riders to Watch

• Maddie Buchanan (Horsemanship): A senior leader known for precision and poise, Buchanan posted a 9–3 record last season and earned All-American honors.

• Emma Kurtz (Equitation Over Fences): The junior standout returns after a breakout season, including multiple MOP (Most Outstanding Performer) awards.

• Sydney Smith (Reining): A rising sophomore who impressed in postseason competition and is expected to anchor the reining squad.

The Tigers will rely on a deep bench and strong recruiting class to maintain their competitive edge across all four disciplines: Horsemanship, Reining, Equitation on the Flat, and Equitation Over Fences.

🔹 Season Outlook

Auburn's schedule includes matchups against SEC rivals Georgia and Texas A&M, as well as national contenders like Oklahoma State and SMU. The team will also host the SEC Championship in March 2026, giving Alabama fans a chance to see elite collegiate equestrian competition on home soil.

🔹 Community Engagement

The October 4 opener will feature fan-friendly events, including rider meet-and-greets, barn tours, and educational booths for youth and families interested in equestrian sports. Admission is free, and gates open at 9:00 AM.

Braswell added: "We want the Auburn community and the state of Alabama to feel connected to this team. These athletes represent the best of college sports-discipline, teamwork, and heart."