On December 8, 2016, Smith College
announced the decision to transition its equestrian program from a team sport to a club sport, effective fall 2017, and to no longer operate an on-campus barn. Since the announcement, we have received questions from alumnae who rode at Smith and from parents of current riders. We are pleased to have the opportunity to address those questions here:
How and why was the decision made?
The decision was made over the course of two years with a great deal of consideration. The complexities of animal care, barn management, working with outside vendors and managing liability, along with declining interest in riding among current and prospective students, all factored into the decision. The decision was strategic, not financial.
Will Smith students still ride and compete?
Absolutely. We are committed to maintaining a high quality riding and competition experience for Smith students. Continuing a longstanding tradition, students will receive professional coaching, enter and compete in all the same equestrian shows they do now, and maintain a competitive schedule.
Where will students ride?
We are actively negotiating for a new barn that will be a safe, productive and convenient place for the students to train. Students on the team are involved in the process and have been kept informed. Athletic Director Kristin Hughes is leading the barn selection process, and looks forward to introducing students to a new barn in the fall. Transportation will be provided, as it is for any of our club or varsity teams whose home base is off campus.
How do we know that competing as a club is a successful model?
Amherst, Bates, Bowdoin, Middlebury, Wellesley, and Williams colleges, as well as Colgate, Duke, and Johns Hopkins universities and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst are examples of institutions that offer equestrian as a club sports, with professional coaching and successful results. In addition, Smith is host to a number of successful club sports, including rugby, squash and others. We are confident that equestrian competition will continue to be a high quality experience informed by strong student engagement and leadership.
How will the club be funded?
The Dean of the College will continue to fund the team until it is chartered and funded by the Student Government Association.
What happens to gifts Smith received for the equestrian program?
Smith takes seriously its commitment to donors and to the appropriate stewardship of gifts to the college. Endowed gifts made in support of the equestrian program will continue to support the club team and riders. Commemorative items from the barn, including those recognizing donors, will be relocated to an area where they can be appreciated by our student equestrians, athletes, and alumnae.
What are the plans for the current riding facility?
The college has no plans for the barn or site at this time.
Updated June 2, 2017
