AUBURN, Ala. – We're at the midseason break and it's time to get to know Auburn equestrian's newcomers! Today we're featuring Callie Hogg!
Hometown: Bakersfield, California
Discipline: Western
Prior to Auburn: Two-time NSBA champion in 2022 ... 2022 AQHYA Showmanship Champion ... 2020 NSBA Reserve World Champion … APHA Ranch Riding Horse of the Year … Four-time APHA World Champion and APHA Reserve World Champion … 2021 PCQHYA All Around Youth … 2021 PCHYA Horse of the Year.
Q: Why Auburn?
A: "I chose Auburn because while it is far away from California, I believed it fit me. When I first visited Auburn, I thought it was incredible - how pretty it is, how welcoming every single person was, and how Auburn has so many resources that assist you with your needs. The equestrian team also had girls with such drive and determination. I loved that about them and that I could be a part of such an amazing team and school all in one."
Q: What is your major, and what do you hope to do with it after college?
A: "I am a kinesiology major and am leaning towards the exercise performance and health side. After college, I intend on becoming a fitness trainer and train kids to adults of any skill."
Q: What is your favorite Auburn tradition?
A: "My favorite tradition here at Auburn is football game days. Experiencing Tiger Walk, the eagle flight, and the energy in Jordan-Hare is impeccable. Game days are truly not one to miss."
Q: What are you most excited about looking ahead to the spring season?
A: "Going into the spring season, I'm looking forward to the big meets we have. The equestrian team is fierce and has so much drive, so I think this coming spring is going to be great for us."
Q: How are you managing being on the team and your class load?
A: "Being a student-athlete has definitely been an adjustment for me, changing from online classes to mostly in person. With the help of our academic advisor, Carly, we have help creating a schedule that is balanced between school and team events. She is also there as guidance if say we are having trouble with a class or just need her there as a friend. She is always around to assist us with anything. Having the SADC is also great because it provides us with a place to study and get our schoolwork done. We are also provided tutors if we need extra help through a class."
Q: What is your favorite thing to do in Auburn?
A: "My favorite thing to do in Auburn is shop at all the cute boutiques by Toomer's. My favorite store is Behind the Glass. Toomer's is also a fun store, and they have the best lemonade!"
Q: Favorite memory with the team so far?
A: "My favorite memory with the team so far was our pre-season trip. I thought we all bonded over the trip and made this season a good one for us."
Q: When and why did you start riding horses?
A: "I started riding when I was about eight years old. I have always had a love for horses since I was young. I went to a horse camp with a friend and fell in love instantly and begged my parents to let me start taking lessons."
Q: What are your goals for the rest of the season both individually and with the team?
A: "Individually, I hope to continue riding strong in practices and pushing myself during workouts. With the team, I hope we can win SECs another year in a row. The whole team is talented and has the ability to win. We just have to keep our positive momentum going forward."
Q: Coming from California, what has been the biggest adjustment so far coming to Auburn?
A: "The biggest adjustment coming from California was how far I was from my family, but this team feels like another family to me, and I wouldn't want to have it any other way."
Q: What has been the best piece of advice you've received and who was it from?
A: "The biggest piece of advice I've received was from my dad and he told me that true grit and perseverance will allow the touchdowns in life. My dad has always been one to motivate me and always there to give me another lesson on life. He is passionate about seeing his children succeed and Auburn has brought that for me."
Q: What is your favorite home-cooked meal?
A: "My favorite home cooked meal is my mom's lattice top chicken!"