For The Argo by Kristin Schreiber and Marion Fopeano

The Equestrian Team has celebrated 10 years of membership on Stockton’s campus, currently with a total of 70 members and many achievements. The team gathers at Split Elm Equestrian Center located in Mays Landing, a quick 10-minute drive from campus making it super accessible for all of the team’s riders. When they are not training with the horses at Split Elm you can find them at monthly meetings on campus in room B005 at 4:30 PM. Member state that they are super excited to spread the word about their club in their new apparel, as Gianna Schiattarella said, “hopefully seeing members wearing their gear on campus will show more students that Stockton does indeed have an Equestrian Club.” Gianna added that they are always excited to welcome new members to the team.

Many Stockton students know the Equestrian team for bringing Split Elm’s mini pony, Eddie to the involvement fair each year. Members love bringing him to campus to get their name out there, but this club is well trained with all types of horses. The team competes in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Associate (IHSA) team, where they draw a name of a random horse to ride from the host barn. Within hours they meet a random horse and begin competing with them, as Gianna stated this will “help bring any rider to the next level.”At their most recent competition at Villanova University, they took home the reserve team title. Earlier this season, they also won first overall right here in Mays Landing. Stockton also competes with the University of Pennsylvania, University of Delaware, Drexel University, Temple University, and Salsbury University. 

Gianna Schiattarella would like to thank their head trainer for their support. “Special thanks to Steph Morrongiello, our head trainer and owner of Split Elm. She has been so helpful for the success of our club for many years and we would not be able to have this club without her,” Gianna stated. “Also, our former captain, Anna Sucar who is now our IHSA coach. She puts in long hours at shows and team practices.”

There are many benefits to joining the Equestrian club. They give discounted lessons to every active member with 10 lessons throughout the semester where you can also ride alone or with a friend. They also have a free riding clinic on precepting days throughout the year. Gianna Schiattarella said, “these are great because the barn is buzzing with excitement, and we are all able to be together and enjoy a great day.”