AUBURN, Ala. – The 2023 postseason is just around the corner and Auburn equestrian would like to take this time to catch up with its 2023 senior class!
Today we're featuring Emma Kurtz! From Hudson, Ohio, Emma will finish her career as one of Auburn's all-time bests in Jumping Seat competition. Emma is a seven-time All-American, has multiple All-SEC selections and was the 2022 Southeastern Conference Fences Rider of the Year.
Emma is a three-time NCEA First Team All-Academic honoree and graduated with her degree in finance. She is currently working on her master's in business administration.
Q: How is this season different knowing it's your last year on the Plains?
A: "Knowing that it's my last season competing for Auburn has really made me focus on soaking everything in. It's crazy to think that every day I may be experiencing something for the last time, so I've been very mindful about soaking in every experience this season."
Q: How has your experience prepared you for life beyond college?
A: "Being on the team for five years has prepared me for life beyond college more than I ever thought it would. It has helped me develop teamwork and leadership skills and has helped me truly value the meaning of hard work."
Q: What would you like to say to the fans and the rest of the Auburn Family?
A: "We have the best fans in the country without a doubt. I would like to say thank you to our fans and the Auburn Family for continually showing up and cheering us on -- their support really does make a big difference for us when we compete."
Q: If you had one piece of advice to give your younger self, what would it be?
A: "One piece of advice I would give my younger self would be to not take the little moments for granted. It can be very easy when you know you have one, two, or three years left on the team to overlook some of the small moments that are often the most special."
Q: Looking back on all the big moments you've been a part of, what is one that stands out the most?
A: "Our SEC Championship win last year in front of a massive Auburn crowd is the moment that stands out the most to me. I felt like as a team, we were operating on a different level that weekend. And to have such a dominant win in front of our home crowd was the cherry on top."
Q: What is your favorite Auburn tradition and why?
A: "My favorite Auburn tradition is the pep rally at the four corners before a home football game."
Q: Who is/was your favorite horse at Auburn and why?
A: "I have too many favorites to pick just one, but over the years Rex has been a consistent favorite of mine."
Q: Best Greg Williams quote?
A: "Plant a seed for a tree you'll never shade under."