Oklahoma State University Athletics
Cowgirl Equestrian Celebrates Season
May 01, 2021 | Cowgirl Equestrian
STILLWATER, OKLA. -Â Oklahoma State equestrian celebrated the 2020-21 season at the team's annual banquet held at Karsten Creek Golf Club earlier this week.
OSU's successful 2020-21 season included a 7-2 record and saw the Cowgirls win the program's seventh Big 12 Conference championship and reach the semifinals of the NCEA National Championship.Â
OSU head coach Larry Sanchez and staff honored those who earned academic and athletic achievements throughout the year, with the following awards presented.Â
CAPTAINS CHOICE AWARD, AS SELECTED BY CAPTAINS
This award is for the person in each discipline who the captains feel best represents sportsmanship, reliability and attitude.
Jumping Seat – Elizabeth Carter
Western – Stephanie Gripp
IRON COWGIRL AWARD, AS SELECTED BY STRENGTH COACH
This award is given to a team member who constantly gives 100% in the weight room and pushes herself to reach new limits and is chosen by Mallory Fowlkes.
Stephanie Helsen
PERSEVERANCE, AS SELECTED BY COACHES
This award is given to a team member for having the vision to push herself and her teammates to a greater goal. This perseverance allowed for the growth and success of the team despite any unexpected circumstances.
JUMPING SEAT – Amanda Atkins
WESTERN – Lizzie Meerman
SPIRIT AWARD, AS SELECTED BY COACHES
This award is given to a team member who helps keep the energy within the team throughout the year. This member continues to motivate others despite the circumstances.
JUMPING SEAT – Josie Elliott
WESTERN – Claire McDowall
SPORTSMANSHIP, AS SELECTED BY COACHES
This award is given to a teammate who always puts others before themselves, they selflessly serve the team and are an inspiration to all.
JUMPING SEAT – Hope King
WESTERN – Cassidy Watters
UNSUNG HERO, AS SELECTED BY COACHES
This award is given to those who work diligently behind the scenes and are critical to making competition days run smoothly. Emphasis goes to those who step up to the plate to get the essential work done, whether they are instructed to or take the lead.
JUMPING SEAT – Lauren Jost
WESTERN – Lois Op het Veld
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR, AS SELECTED BY COACHES
This award is given to a first-year rider in each discipline who exceled in the arena.
JUMPING SEAT – Paige Jones
WESTERN – Maddie Fussell
MOST IMPROVED, AS SELECTED BY COACHES
This award is given to a team member of each event who worked hard all year and made the most improvement in the arena.
FENCES – Sydnie Ziegler
HORSEMANSHIP – Caroline Nielson
FLAT – Katie Pelzel
REININING –  Kelly Harper
HORSEMEN OF THE YEAR, AS SELECTED BY COACHES
This award is given to the riders in each discipline who go the extra mile to care for our horses inside and outside of the area. This rider dedicates time to make each horse progress in training and well-being outside the arena.
