The National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) recently released its preseason coaches poll, and the University of Tennessee at Martin’s (UT Martin) equestrian team has made an impressive debut at No. 9. This marks an incredible milestone, as the Skyhawks have now made the top ten consistently for 43 consecutive seasons, demonstrating the program’s enduring excellence and commitment to the sport.
In the preseason rankings, the Skyhawks find themselves in distinguished company. Topping the list is the reigning national champion, the University of Georgia, followed by Southern Methodist University (SMU) at No. 2, Auburn at No. 3, South Carolina at No. 4, and Texas A&M at No. 5. Also making the top ten are Oklahoma State at No. 6, Texas Christian University (TCU) at No. 7, and Baylor at No. 8. These rankings reflect not only the competitive nature of collegiate equestrian but also the parade of talented athletes and luxurious equine partners that contribute to each program’s success.
A notable shift in the structure of the NCEA is the introduction of a weekly coaches poll for the 2025-26 season. This feature will allow coaches to evaluate team performances more dynamically, keeping rankings current throughout the fall season. The coaches will publish their opinions weekly, with the final installment being revealed on November 25. After that, the NCEA Selection Committee will assume control of the rankings, which will continue until the final regular season standings are released on March 17.
For the Skyhawks, the excitement of being ranked No. 9 comes on the heels of a record-setting season. Last year, the team achieved a historic milestone by capturing its first Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) championship since the 2012-13 season. This triumph not only secured UT Martin an at-large berth in the prestigious NCEA Championships but also tied the school record for the most wins in a single season, with a total of eight victories. The culmination of their efforts placed them at No. 8 in the last NCEA poll, which represented the highest end-of-season ranking in the program’s history.
Under the exceptional leadership of four-time ECAC Coach of the Year Kim Leiter-Janes, the Skyhawks are anticipated to maintain their competitive momentum this season. She is set to return 24 riders from last season, including five crucial starters who played pivotal roles in the team’s previous success. Moreover, the program will see an influx of talent with the addition of 13 newcomers, aiming to inject fresh energy and skill into the existing roster.
To kick off the exciting 2025-26 campaign, UT Martin is setting the stage for its Blue and Orange Scrimmage slated for September 26 and 27. This event will feature various equestrian disciplines, such as horsemanship, flat events, fences, and reining, allowing fans and followers to witness the skills and potential of the returning and incoming riders. The official season opener for the Skyhawks is set for October 3-4, where they will face South Dakota State and Minnesota-Crookston in Brookings, SD.
As the Skyhawks prepare for their upcoming season, anticipation mounts among fans and supporters. Maintaining a top-10 ranking requires not only talent and preparation but also a strong strategy and adaptability to the ever-evolving landscape of collegiate equestrian. The program’s achievements under Coach Kim Leiter-Janes are a testament to effective coaching, athlete discipline, and an unwavering commitment to high performance.
The intensity of competition in collegiate equestrian continues to escalate, as programs strive to develop their athletes and elevate their standings within the NCEA rankings. Evaluating the performances of the Skyhawks and their competitors requires meticulous attention to detail, as every ride, and every point matters. Equestrian sports are as much about the relationship between horse and rider as they are about point scoring, making the sport unique in its blend of athletic prowess and equine partnership.
As UT Martin embarks on this new chapter in their journey, staying focused on goals while managing expectations will be crucial. The stakes are high, with not only a ranking to defend but also the legacy of a program that has consistently showcased its prowess in the arena. The latest announcements and the coaches poll serve as reminders of the rich tradition and promising future of the Skyhawks.
In the coming months, observers will be keenly watching how UT Martin’s roster develops and adapts to the embraced challenges of both new competitors and returning rivals. The excitement of the season ahead is palpable, as their success will not only reflect on the athletic department but also on the entire university community.
In conclusion, the University of Tennessee at Martin’s equestrian program is set to embark on what promises to be another thrilling season. With the release of the preseason coaches poll ranking them at No. 9, the groundwork for success has been laid, the athletes are primed, and the coaching staff is committed to navigating the challenges that lie ahead. As the Skyhawks rally to outpace their rivals, their performance will not only be about winning but will also encapsulate the spirit of dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship that defines collegiate equestrian.
Overall, the Skyhawks’ rank signifies pride and ambition, continuing their journey in a sport that intertwines athleticism, strategy, and a deep bond with horses. The road ahead may have its obstacles, but UT Martin is battle-tested and ready to compete at the highest level.
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