About UWET

What does the team do?

The University of Wisconsin Equestrian Team competes nationally through the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). The team rides and competes in hunt seat equitation both on the flat and over fences. Each year the team competes at different horse shows within our region in which both the team and the individual may gain points towards competing at Regionals or Zone Finals. UWET is coached by Mark Aplin and has been very successful over the years, winning several Regional and Zone Championships. At IHSA Nationals, the team has consistently placed in the top ten and has had several individual riders win or place in their classes. With UWET's competency at the national level, we have been one of only a few Midwestern teams invited to the Tournament of Champions horse show series where our show team has ridden successfully against some of the best collegiate riders in the nation. Please see our History for a complete season record throughout the years. For more information on how IHSA competition works, please see the IHSA's official website.

Who are we?

UWET is made up of a team of 25-30 riders from all backgrounds and disciplines. Experience levels range from those who have never had the chance to take up riding but still have a love of horses and competition, to those who have successfully competed in upper level equitation and jumpers. Although we ride and compete in an industry competitive hunt seat equitation style (see Hunter Seat Equitation, by George H. Morris), ALL disciplines are welcome and encouraged to join. Each member gets an average of three hours of riding time per week, and if more is desired, extra lessons can always be scheduled with our coach or with the Riding Club. UWET uses the horses and facility of the Hoofer Equestrian Center, located about half an hour from campus in Belleville, WI. It is not necessary to have a car in order to join the team; carpools are organized for every event including lessons, practices, socials, work days, and horse shows. The team provides a great social network as our season spans the entire school year, rather than just a semester. UWET also plans several social events throughout the year so everyone may get to know each other and create a bond of friendship and team competition.