Date of Graduation

Spring 2025

Degree

Master of Science in Agriculture

Department

School of Agricultural Science & Conservation

Committee Chair

Elizabeth Walker

Abstract

Collegiate equine teams (including horse judging, equestrian, ranch horse teams) have been recognized for their contributions to students' personal and professional development for post- graduation success. Teams have been used to provide opportunities, a sense of belonging and allow for experiences students may not have elsewhere. However, there is a notable gap in knowledge as to where funding comes from and how much teams may be able to budget for expenditures. Recruitment tactical knowledge provides other teams with knowledge of potential areas they may be lacking or unaware of. I used an online survey to understand current ranges of support and expenditures, as well as anticipated change of support and expenditure amounts. This descriptive study utilized frequencies and cross tabulations to identify relationships between equine team support, expenditures, structural and demographic characteristics. The target population consisted of collegiate head coaches/advisors for ranch horse, horse judging and Zone 7 IHSA equestrian teams. Findings from this survey indicate there may be some support sources that do not provide support for these teams. Also, some support may be more available based off how much of the coach's job is dedicated to coaching. As past research has shown how these teams positively impact students it is a necessity to assess how these teams are being supported and to provide an idea of what budget they need.

Keywords

equine industry, collegiate teams, student involvement, co-curricular activities, higher education spending

Subject Categories

Agricultural Economics | Agricultural Education | Agriculture | Animal Sciences

Copyright

© Sydni Marie Nilles

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