It's time to meet the newcomers to the 2021-22 Auburn equestrian team!
Up next is a freshman from Battle Ground, Washington…Kaitlyn Ferguson! Kaitlyn joined Auburn's Horsemanship crew as a three-time APHA National Champion. She was also the 2020 APHA Reserve World Champion and finished APHA Top 5 Novice Youth in 2019.
Q: What drew you to Auburn?
"The main thing that drew me to Auburn was how much the university genuinely cares for their students. There are so many support systems and opportunities that set up to help you succeed and feel at home."
How old were you when you started riding? Do you remember your favorite youth coach or any special influencers?
"I was seven years old when I first started riding. My mom grew up riding, so she wanted me to experience that too. Because of that, I'd say my mom has had the most influence on my riding career. She has quite literally been with me every step of the way."
How would your friends and family describe you in three words, and why?
"Open minded – I'm super go with the flow and am good with change. Honest – I believe honesty is the best policy no matter what. Outgoing – I will talk to literally anyone. I love meeting new people."
What is your major and what do you plan to do with it?
"I'm an exercise science major. I plan on becoming a chiropractor in the future and working on both people and animals."
What is your relationship with your teammates like? With the coaches and staff?
"I love everyone involved with this team because they feel like family. We all push each other to be better people every day."
Do you have a favorite study spot on campus?
"My favorite place to study is the Student Athlete Development Center. Being able to get together with other athletes to work makes it much more enjoyable."
Coming from Washington, has it been hard to adjust to Auburn?
"My transition to Auburn has been completely seamless. I immediately felt like this is where I belong. Having amazing teammates made it easy. Plus, the weather is way nicer than back at home."
What's your favorite Auburn sport to watch besides Equestrian and why?
"Basketball is, hands down, my favorite Auburn sport. I love how fast paced the game is. I'm super excited to see our team play this year."
What are your goals for this season? What are your goals for the team?
"My personal goals for this season are to work hard and try my best to support my teammates whenever they need it. My goal for the team is to continue Auburn Equestrian's success. This is a record-breaking team and I'd love to see us to continue to do so."
If you could travel anywhere for 24 hours, where would you go and why?
"If I could travel anywhere right now, I would probably go home. I would love to see my friends and family in Washington."
If you could give one message to the Auburn Family, what would it be?
"I would like to thank the Auburn Family for their support of Auburn athletics, especially equestrian. I truly feel appreciated here."
What does "War Eagle" mean to you, and why?
"To me, 'War Eagle' embodies what it means to be a part of the Auburn Family. It means you're a part of something bigger than yourself. That you believe in Auburn and love it."
Name one thing you are excited about this season, and why?
"I'm super excited to travel to the World Equestrian Center for the NCEA Championship this year. The facility looks amazing, and I can't wait to cheer on my girls."
