The Missouri State University Equestrian Team has earned its place among the state’s most celebrated athletic programs.   

This March, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame inducted the team as a 2026 honoree for decades of competitive excellence and significant contributions to sports in Missouri.  

Natalie Mook, instructor in the School of Agricultural Sciences and Conversation, refers to the team as a hidden gem.  

“We’ve been a constant presence within the Darr College of Agriculture and on campus, but not many people know Missouri State has an equestrian team,” she said.   

“It’s great the team is finally getting this recognition and support from the community.” 

A legacy of excellence

The equestrian team was formed in 1980 and began competing after joining the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association in 1989. Since then, a total of about 325 students have been part of the team. It currently has 25 members who compete in Western and Hunter disciplines from beginner to advanced levels.  

Over the years, the team has built an impressive record of achievement across the Midwest and nationwide. From multiple riders competing at regional finals to strong performances at national championships, its members have consistently demonstrated excellence.  

Last year, the Western team won High-Point Rider of the region and High-Point Regional Team, and the Hunter seat team claimed Reserve High-Point Regional Team. At the recent nationals in Tryon, North Carolina, this year, animal science senior Bridgette Smith won Reserve Champion in the beginner division, while psychology sophomore Hope Cabral and ag communications sophomore Bella McCutchan secured top 10 finishes in both level one and rookie divisions, respectively.

More than a competition 

What sets the Mo State team apart is not just its competitive success, but its strong sense of community and commitment to student growth.  

Students get the chance to connect with peers who share similar interests, build lasting friendships and gain experiences that extend beyond the classroom. For many of them, the team becomes a defining part of their college journey.  

“Being on the team has provided me with a social group that I belong and can relate to,” Smith said. “Since joining the team, I feel a sense of accomplishment after each day that I get to ride, and I feel less tense in my school life.” 

For Cabral, the team offers a welcome break from academics and a chance to remain active. 

“It’s been nice having something to do outside of my classwork and gets me out of my apartment,” she said. “The team has also been a strong support system.”  

Mook’s passion for coaching the team alongside her teaching duties is about more than trophies.  

“I find joy in mentoring students both in and out of the arena,” she said. “I want to have the same positive impact on future generations that so many coaches and fellow horse people have had on my life.” 

The work before the walk 

Continuous success over the years demands consistent dedication and rigorous preparation.  

“We prepare for the nationals throughout the year. Every practice and regular season show hones our skills for that moment,” Mook said. 

Training takes place at the Darr Agricultural Center, where students practice with university-owned horses. Competitions follow a random draw format, where riders are assigned a horse they may have never ridden before and must compete without a warm-up. Students are therefore trained to adapt to different types of horses. 

Depending on their discipline, riders focus on different exercises and drills. Horsemanship riders practice patterns, while jumpers work on courses and grid exercises. All riders build gait consistency, strengthen position and ride without stirrups, developing the skills and control needed to perform well on any horse. 

A journey still in motion 

With more riders qualifying for regional and national competitions, the future looks bright. The vision is to qualify for national competitions as a full team in both western and hunt seat disciplines. The team also seeks to build greater awareness and support across campus and the community. 

The Hall of Fame induction marks a major milestone — but for the Missouri State Equestrian Team, it is just one step in an ongoing journey defined by passion, perseverance and pride.

Learn more about equine science