Naval Academy Equestrian Team Opportunities

I've been riding horses for a while and am curious about the equestrian team at the Naval Academy. How competitive is it to join, and what kind of commitments should I expect if I become a part of it?

While the Naval Academy doesn't have an official NCAA equestrian team, they do have an Equestrian Club which operates as a student-led organization. This club is structured to provide opportunities for riders of all skill levels, including those who are new to horseback riding or those who have been riding competitively for years, so you won't necessarily need to be a highly skilled rider to participate.

However, membership does require commitment. Regular participation in club activities such as practice sessions, competitions, and fundraising events is expected. Since the club is student-run, there are often leadership opportunities available, and seeking one of these positions could require an even greater time commitment.

As with all sports and club activities at the Naval Academy, it's important to remember that your academics and military training should be your priority, and those commitments will always come first. Balancing your equestrian pursuits with your other commitments at the academy can be challenging, but many students successfully manage it and find that participating in the equestrian club adds a rewarding dimension to their academy experience.

Keep in mind that the structure of an equestrian team or club can vary from one military academy to another and even from one year to the next as students graduate and turnover occurs in club leadership. I would highly recommend reaching out to the Naval Academy directly for the most current and accurate information.