Lauren Rice
University of Scranton

From my very first show in 2016 to the unexpectedly heartbreaking last show of my senior year in 2020, I cannot thank this organization enough for connecting the two things I love most – horses and friends. And for quite frankly merging them into so much more – family.

I want to take the time now to give a huge shoutout to the Scranton Equestrian Team and the teams of Zone 3 Region 4 who have been a staple in my college career, whether it was a supportive “we’ve got this” glance while awaiting our horse draws or a pat on the back from a competitor of another school who readily gave advice even when their round did not go as planned. I could not be the team leader I am today without this guidance.

Lauren and teammates celebrating success and friendship. Photos courtesy of Lauren Rice

In a minute or less spent in the arena, on an unfamiliar horse, I had the opportunity to challenge myself and learn lessons along the way. Most times resulting in exiting the ring with a huge smile on my face while patting the neck of the horse who I was happy to call my new buddy, followed by cheers from the team that always has my back no matter the ride.

To my current team, I want to thank you for your unrelenting training, dedication, sportsmanship and passion for the team as we each experienced our highs and lows. Being a team captain has been an absolute honor. I was proud to see each person on my team grow in unique and beautiful ways. I made lasting friendships with captains throughout the region who we could lean on each other for support.

University of Scranton Equestrian Team. Photo courtesy of Lauren Rice

As a daring and passionate equestrian from the age of four, all I ever knew was the strength and relationship between myself and my horse. Within these last four years, I discovered through the IHSA that equestrians stand stronger as a team rather than as one. But more importantly, we are the strongest when we come together as a region and community.