Schmitz signs LOI for equestrian at SDSU

HCHS Senior Katy Schmitz will be heading off to South Dakota State University for horseback riding.

“I’m really excited and really grateful,” Schmitz said. “It took a lot of work to get to this point. I’ve been competitively showing for 10 years now, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”

With multiple choices in front of her, Schmitz talked about what led to her choosing SDSU.

“I really like the environment and I got to visit there,” she said. “I really liked the team. They were all super kind. The campus is beautiful and it just felt like home.”

The Equestrian team at SDSU currently sits at 2-4 on the season, with wins against UC Davis and Minnesota Crookston. The roster currently has 34 athletes, a vast majority being underclassmen.

Schmitz plans to major in pre-chiropractic’s during her time at SDSU, along with some goals she has for her time in college.

“I hope to do well academically and athletically,” Schmitz said. “I can’t wait for more opportunities and I can’t wait to learn.”

Even though her high school days have yet to conclude, Schmitz is grateful for her time at HCHS.

“I’ve made a whole bunch of friends and they have helped support me through my journey,” she said.

During the signing, Schmitz’s brother and sister, Ethan and Clara, along with her mom, Jana, and her dad, Jeff, were there to show their support.

“I travel a lot when I show,” Schmitz added. “My family has definitely helped pick up the slack at home. Mainly my mom, she’ll drop everything and she’ll help me travel. She’s my number one supporter, so I’m very grateful for her.”