Freshman Rachel Hoopman owns the distinction of being the only representative on the Auburn roster from Idaho. Hailing from the beautiful Coeur d'Alene, Hoopman hopes to remain in the horse industry following her time on the Plains.
Q: Do you have any pre-meet superstitions?
A: I have a lucky pair of socks with corgis on them that I've worn all throughout my youth career.
Q: What is the best vacation you've ever been on?
A: I went to Kauai [Hawaii] a few years ago and got to ride horses to a hidden waterfall. I even got to swim with some sea turtles.
Q: What is your favorite dessert?
A: I could always go for a good slice of strawberry cheesecake.
Q: If you could no longer ride a horse at your meets, what animal would you choose and why?
A: I would ride a giraffe for sure. Doing an extended lope circle on a giraffe would the coolest (and bumpiest) thing ever!
Q: What is your go-to salad dressing?
A: I actually prefer to eat my salad dry. I've never been a fan of salad dressing; people make fun of me for it all the time, but I think it makes me more unique.
Q: Are you currently watching anything on Netflix?
A: I've been watching a lot of Criminal Minds lately. The Office is another staple that never gets old.
Q: What is your favorite Auburn sport other than equestrian?
A: I don't think I have a favorite. I like getting to watch all my friends play in their respective sports!
Q: If you're stranded on a deserted island, what three teammates do you bring with you and why?
A: I would bring Boo Kammerer, Kayla Shelnutt, and Maddie Spak. Boo would be the comedic relief, Kayla is really good at fixing things, and Maddie would be in charge of fighting off any feral animals that we come across.
Q: What is your favorite fruit and your least favorite vegetable?
A: My favorite fruit is frozen green grapes. I'm not sure if tomatoes are a fruit or vegetable, but I despise them.
Q: What is your favorite Auburn tradition?
A: My favorite Auburn tradition is rolling Toomer's Corner. I feel bad for wasting paper, but man, it's fun!
Q: Do you believe in supernatural creatures like aliens or Bigfoot?
A: I don't believe in aliens or Bigfoot, but I definitely believe chupacabras are real. I'm pretty sure I saw one in the flesh a few years ago.
Q: If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?
A: If I could have any superpower it would be the ability to teleport. I would save so much on gas money.
Q: Why did you choose Auburn for equestrian?
A: I chose Auburn for its opportunities in the classroom and the arena. I loved how close-knit Auburn's community is, it reminds me a lot of home.
Q: If you could ask your pet three questions, what would they be?
A: I would ask my horse Chaz these questions:
What's your favorite food?
If you could be another animal what would you be?
How would you rate me as a pet owner on a scale of 1-10? (Hopefully he'd give me a 10)
Q: What is your major and what do you plan to do with it?
A: I am currently a Business Marketing major. I hope to pursue a career within the horse industry that allows me to be creative and entrepreneurial.
Q: If you could say one thing to the Auburn Family what would it be?
A: Thank you for being supportive of all of the athletes and for making this school a place that is safe and enjoyable for everyone!