Writer: Olivia Norton
Front left, Michelle Glover and Paige Linne will lead the 2015-2016 Stock Horse Team, back left, Lane Birkenfeld, Kylie Reis, Kyla Kalinowski, Madison Crum, Annisa Cevera, Ellen Black, Rachel Sembera, Morgan Merino and Sarah Savage. Not pictured: Haley Birkenfeld
COLLEGE STATION — The Texas A&M Stock Horse Team is preparing for the 2015-2016 season under new leadership. Michelle Glover and Paige Linne, both graduate students in the Department of Animal Science, took over the reins as head coach and assistant coach, respectively, this summer.
Michelle Glover, head coach, completed her bachelor’s degree in animal science in May 2013 and continued her education as an animal science graduate student in the fall of 2013. Glover is no stranger to the rigor of participating on a competitive team as she was an active member of the Texas A&M Stock Horse Team for several years including the 2014-2015 Reserve National Champion Team.
“In addition to being a member of the Stock Horse Team, Michelle’s prior experience with barrel racing and roping events give her a well-rounded approach when advising the team,” said Dr. Martha Vogelsang, team faculty coordinator.
Paige Linne, assistant coach, received a bachelor’s degree in animal science in May 2015 and is currently a member of the first class of students pursuing a master of equine industry management degree in the Department of Animal science. During her undergraduate career, Linne competed as a member of the Texas A&M Equestrian Team specializing in reining.
“Linne brings with her a diversified background, having competed in numerous western events including cutting, horsemanship and ranch sorting,” said Vogelsang.
Team tryouts were held in August, and Glover and Linne were encouraged by the interest demonstrated by the number of students actively seeking a position on the highly successful team. Selected to this year’s team are Haley Birkenfeld, Lane Birkenfeld, Sarah Savage, Morgan Merino, Rachel Sembera, Kyla Kalinowski, Madison Crum, Ellen Black, Anissa Cervera and Kylie Reis.
The Stock Horse Team grew out of a course that was started in 2006, Stock Horse Advanced Training, and has since evolved into a highly competitive and successful group of young horsemen and women.
The Stock Horse Team kicks off its competition season at the Stock Horse of Texas Show (SHOT) in Bryan on Sept. 26, followed by the SHOT Show in Stephenville on Oct. 9-11, and SHOT Collegiate World Championship in Abilene on Oct. 30-Nov. 1.
-30-
For more information regarding news from the Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, please contact Courtney Coufal at cacoufal@tamu.edu or (979) 845-1542.