A Member of the Western Team

Written by Sarah Murvin for Equine Business Management class. 

Last weekend the St. Andrews Western team competed at Campbell University. The team finished the weekend with Reserve High Point team on Saturday and High Point team on Sunday. The scores allowed St. Andrews to maintain a region lead of 12 points heading into the final show of the competitive season that will be hosted by Liberty University on February 28. 

This team has thrived in the IHSA region for many years. They have been the Regional Champion team from 2005-2014; and have qualified 7 of those years for the National Championship show as a team.

As a Western team member, you experience the benefits of being a part of a team and you are constantly building friendships. Each member makes an important effort to improve their equestrian skills. Their experience begins before entering the show ring and extends long after the end of the show. Coach Carla Wennberg always has something inspiring to say about her team: “You know I am always in awe of my teams each year. It seems my great leaders of the upperclassmen really teach the freshmen early on how to be great citizens, help each other, share, and do what is right. The lessons we learn are because of the horse and responsibility and competition.” Coach Carla is an immense asset to this team, as well as Assistant Coach Lindsey Agaliotis. They both offer great insight and they help this team come together as a family. 

Due to personal reasons I wasn’t able to be a member of the team this semester; but as a member for 2 years I created many relationships with this team. I have built many friendships and still feel connected to the team. Carla is a very understanding coach and she is willing to work with you to help you feel more confident as a rider. When I first came to this school I had never ridden a Quarter horse, or even competed on a riding team. Carla knew exactly how to shape me into a western rider. Riding with Carla for three years has benefited me in ways I couldn’t imagine. Being a part of this western team is more than an experience it’s a privilege; and it’s worth being involved in.