It's time to meet the Auburn equestrian freshman class as we bring you Q&As with the newcomers. Ellie Ferrigno kicks off the week for us!
Hometown: Newtown, Conn.
Major: Psychology
Prior to Auburn: Won the Junior Hunt Seat Medal Finals and was the High Point Junior Rider at the 2020 New England Equitation Champion … Third place at the 2020 WIHS Junior Equitation Finals … Top 25 showing at the 2020 National Horse Show … 2020 ASPCA Maclay winner at the Kentucky Summer Horse Show … 2019 USEF Talent Search Finals East Winner … 2019 US Junior Hunter Finals East Coast Grand Champion … 2019 ASPCA Maclay Region 4 Champion … 10th place at the 2019 USEF Medal Finals … 2018 US Junior Hunter Finals East Coast Younger Large Junior Hunter Champion.
Q: Why did you chose Auburn?
A: I chose Auburn for a bunch of reasons. I love that the campus is small, and the town feels safe. I also felt comfortable with the girls on the team here and the coaches here are better than anywhere else. I just knew it was right when I visited.
How long have you been riding and what is the name of the first pony you rode?
I've been riding since before I can even remember! My first pony's name was Nighty Night (I named him at 2) and he was a black Mini.
You've had a lot of success in the equestrian world throughout your career. What has made your time riding so successful and what has been one of your greatest accomplishments so far?
I think what made me so successful was my work ethic and attitude. I am a very positive person and that helps a lot. I also owe it all to my team that trained me. I wouldn't be where I am today without the opportunities they gave me. My biggest accomplishments so far were winning the 2019 USEF Talent Search Finals and the 2019 ASPCA Maclay Regionals.
What is your favorite dessert and why?
I LOVE eclairs. It's something about the pastry with the filling inside. Just the superior desert. No debate.
Hot or cold weather? Why?
I don't really have a weather preference. I'm from Connecticut and we have a moderate climate. I do like when it's a little cool in the summer though.
If you're stranded on a deserted island, what three teammates do you bring with and why?
I have not been here very long, and I don't know anyone that well, but if I was stranded on a deserted island I would hope I was with Madison Parduhn. She's been my best friend since I've been here. I'd have my roommate Jacqueline Frimodt since we really get along and I feel like we are similar. My other one would be Meghan Knapic. I have known her forever and she is so funny and positive, and I feel like even on a deserted island she would figure out how to have fun.
What is your favorite thing about being from the Northeast corner of the country?
My favorite thing about the Northeast is snow. I absolutely love snow and I love to ski.
What is your major and what do you plan on doing with it?
My major is psychology because I find it interesting, but I am going to go pro and try to go to the Olympics after college.
Do you have any pre-meet rituals or superstitions? If so, what are they?
I am very superstitious Haha. I always have my nails painted sparkly blue and I have a special blue belt I wear for important meets or competition.
What movie could you watch on repeat and why?
I don't really watch movies, but a show I could watch over and over again is New Girl. The characters are dorky and weird, but still fun and like to have a good time. It reminds me of me and my friends.
How would your friends and family describe you in three words?
I'm not really sure how to answer this one. Haha. I guess they would probably say fun, meticulous, and competitive.
What is your favorite home cooked meal?
My dad makes the best burgers ever. My friends from home all come to my house on burger night just to have these, so I'd have to say that's my favorite home cooked meal.
If you had the opportunity to do any other sport, what would it be and why?
If I could do any other sport, I would ski race. When I was about eight, I got super into racing and actually had to choose between riding and skiing.
What are some of your academic goals while being at Auburn?
I really just hope to get good grades and be proud of my work!
What are some of your athletic goals while being at Auburn?
My athletic goals are Auburn are pretty big. I want to win SECs and nationals every year and maybe some undefeated rings as well! I want a ring for every finger.