Nova Southeastern University’s (NSU) Equestrian Team competed in its first competition as part of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). Eight members of the team traveled to the University of North Florida to compete against IHSA Hunt Seat teams from UM, FAU, UF, FSU, UCF, UNF, USF, UWF, FGCU, Stetson, Rollins, and Ave Maria University. Courtney Steiger, junior, led the team to a second place finish in the Novice Fences. Senior and Co-Captain Nicole Alvarez finished 3rd in the novice fences. Andrea Ojeda, sophomore, was 5th in the Novice flat. Captain Nina Argibay, senior, was 5th in Walk-Trot-Canter. Vice-President Danielle Pierce, sophomore, was 5th in the Walk-Trot. All in all, NSU came home with seven overall ribbons…an impressive showing for the first-time team, under the leadership of Coaches Jackie George and Kirstin Marzbanian of 4Gs Equestrian Center in Coconut Creek.
Founded in September 2015 by Fischer College of Education Associate Professor and IHSA alum, Dr. Maryann Tobin, NSU Equestrian is a growing club that allows members to participate in horse-related social activities, philanthropy, and equestrian competitions through the IHSA. IHSA is an national organization of over 350 college and universities riding teams that promote intercollegiate riding for equestrians of all levels, and owning a horse is not required. NSU Equestrian will compete again at Savannah College of Art and Design and at IHSA Regionals at the University of Florida in March.
NSU Equestrian will accept new members at any time and they are hoping to expand to include a Western team next year. Membership is open to all students, regardless of riding level, however riding is not required to be a member of the club. Undergraduate students and graduate students who are IHSA alums are eligible to compete with IHSA.
For more information about NSU Equestrian, please email nsuequestrian@gmail.com, follow them on Instagram (nsuequestrian) or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NSUEquestrian/?fref=ts), or contact Maryann Tobin, PH.D. at 954-262-8774 or mt745@nova.edu.