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!
Up next is Maddie Spak! The Waukesha, Wisconsin native has had an outstanding career on the Plains, competing in Horsemanship all throughout her time with the Tigers. The All-American will finish her time with the program in the top 10 in all-time wins in the event and has a career high 78.5 to her name. This season, Maddie has had her best year yet, winning multiple Rider of the Month honors in Horsemanship for the Tigers.
She is a multiple NCEA First Team All-Academic honoree and is a three-time SEC Academic Honor Roll member. Maddie recently graduated with her degree in psychology.
Q: How is this season different knowing it's your last year on the Plains?
A: "It's a very bittersweet feeling. I am incredibly grateful for the time I have had on the Plains, but I can't wait to see what this staff and group of girls accomplishes when my time here is done."
Q: How has your experience prepared you for life beyond college?
A: "My experience has set me up to have a successful career beyond college in many ways. I have made lifelong connections and have learned countless lessons on both the personal and professional level that have made me grow in my time here."
Q: What would you like to say to the fans and the rest of the Auburn Family?
A: "THANK YOU! I cannot put into words how grateful I am to have been supported by the best fans in college athletics. The Auburn Family will always hold a special place in my heart."
Q: If you had one piece of advice to give your younger self, what would it be?
A: "Set high goals but have an even higher work ethic."
Q: What is your major and what is the next step for you after Auburn?
A: "I graduated with my undergraduate degree in psychology in Spring of 2022 and will be finished with my master's degree in industrial/organizational psychology this summer. I am currently working remotely for the Milwaukee Bucks and will be moving back to the Milwaukee area following this semester."
Q: What is your favorite Auburn tradition and why?
A: "The eagle flight would probably be my favorite Auburn tradition. The overall atmosphere around Jordan-Hare on game day is incredible, but I've never seen anything like the eagle flight anywhere else."
Q: Who is/was your favorite horse at Auburn and why?
A: "We've had some great horses come through our program in my time on the team, but I'd have to say Tina is the horse I am the most grateful for. She was the first horse I drew at home and when she was here, she helped me learn so much about the collegiate side of equestrian and what it takes to be successful in this format."
Q: Best Greg Williams quote?
A: "I would have to say one of my favorite Coach Williams quotes would be to 'never give anyone a reason to doubt you.' This is a quote that has resonated with me in and out of the arena since my freshman year and is a testament to the hard work that everyone in our program puts in to make us the team that we are.
