AUBURN, Ala. – It's Alumni Week for the Auburn equestrian team as the Tigers will be welcoming alums from all over the country back to the Plains this weekend.
'Going Pro' will feature alums throughout this week as well as throughout the school year, showcasing many past Tigers now finding success away from Auburn.
Our next graduate is Deanna Green Willis! The Western rider was an incredibly accomplished student-athlete for the Tigers, helping Auburn win a Southeastern Conference championship every year while on campus. In addition, Green helped the program win back-to-back national titles in 2018 and 2019.
Green finished her time on the Plains as a five-time NCEA All-American and a four-time All-SEC performer. She was the 2020 NCEA And SEC Horsemanship Rider of the Year. Green finished with 47 career wins in Horsemanship as well as 31 wins in Reining for the Tigers.
Years Competed: 2017-2022
Major: Exercise Science
What are you currently doing?
"Currently, I am still showing. I have three show horses for the Congress in October and then I have one for the AQHA World Show. Those will be our last shows of the year.
"For work, I am working as a professional makeup artist that specializes in bridal and am a licensed esthetician with a focus on skincare."
Why did you choose this career path?
"I chose this because I have a love for beauty and skincare."
How did Auburn prepare you to be successful away from the Plains?
"Riding horses taught me discipline and hard work, while Auburn taught me about working with a team and never being afraid to ask for help. I was taught to learn something from everyone and keep trying to get better."
Favorite moment or memory from your time on the team?
"I have many amazing memories from the team, and most would think my favorites would be from championships won. Although those were incredible memories, my favorite ones were the times at the barn with the girls, my teammates, riding horses and just having a good time. We were always working hard but we all loved it and were so passionate about it, that it made it so much fun."
What does the Auburn Family mean to you?
"The Auburn Family means forever getting a 'War Eagle' in the airport no matter where you are in the country."
Advice to current and future Auburn riders?
"My advice to those on the team now is to enjoy it. It goes by so fast. Learn from each other, appreciate each other. Never be too good to work harder."