April 19, 2004

Columbia,S.C. – The University of South Carolina equestrian team held its annual end of the year banquet over the weekend. The team was recognized by the CARES group as the Gamecock team that had the most volunteer hours in 2004. The team averaged 21 hours per person and participated in such projects as the Harvest Hope Food Drive and volunteering at horse competitions to benefit children’s chance of Columbia.

Academic as well as athletic awards were handed out at the banquet. Among those receiving academic awards were Lisa Boykin, Lindsey Weathers, Amy Strong and Rachel Sternoff. Sternoff was also named MVP of Western along with her academic recognition

Co-Captain junior Tara Brothers was named MVP of Huntseat and was named for outstanding leadership and service. The Bend, Ore. native has qualified for Nationals to be held in May. Brothers has been one of USC’s most consistent riders this year. Sophomore Laura Pipkin was named the all around MVP along with being cited for outstanding leadership and service. Pipkin was also named most dedicated over the weekend. Sophomore Chelsea Koornick was named the most improved rider at this weekend’s banquet.

The 2004 senior class was recognized for their contributions to the team. Included in the group were Lindsey Wilson, Kyra Hufford, Lisa Boykin, Michelle Jenkins, Caroline Blumberg and Alexis Pospischil.

The team will compete this weekend in the Varsity Equestrian Championships in Conyers, Ga. The competition will be co-hosted with Auburn and Georgia.