Get To Know: Sofia Tieche

AUBURN, Ala. – The No. 3 Auburn equestrian team is kicking off the 2025-26 season in October and welcomed nine fresh faces to the squad—let’s get to know them!|

Today’s feature is Sofia Tieche!

Class: Freshman
Hometown: Ocala, Fla.
Discipline: Western
Prior to Auburn: Top finishes at SFRHA, FRHA, TRHA, Congress and other futurities.

Q: What made you want to go to Auburn?
A: “The main things that drew me to Auburn were the happy feelings you get from the small-town atmosphere, the old traditions and the genuinely kind people. On top of that, the outstanding academics stood out to me—especially the aviation program, along with all the other programs that carry such credibility. Finally, the equestrian team was a huge part of my decision. I knew this team had the grit, class and family environment I wanted to be a part of.”

Q: How long have you been riding horses? What was the name of your first horse?
A: “I’ve been around horses my whole life and I loved them from a very young age. I started showing reining horses in early 2020. My first horse’s name was Tinsel—he was sweet, short, a little chubby, and honestly, the perfect starter horse for me.”

Q: What’s the biggest lesson horseback riding has taught you about yourself?
A: “Riding has taught me that I can do anything. Through tough challenges, setbacks, wins, meeting new people, and traveling on my own, I’ve really grown into myself and become a strong, independent woman. The confidence and resilience I’ve gained through riding remind me every day that I am unstoppable.”

Q: What is the most challenging part about balancing academics and being a student-athlete?
A: “The biggest challenge is definitely time management. Most days start with an early team workout, then it’s straight to class, followed by time at the barn, and then studying at night. There’s no time for laziness or procrastination—you really have to stay disciplined and organized to succeed.”

Q: What are some hobbies and activities you enjoy doing outside of riding?
A: “Outside of riding, I love flying airplanes, taking naps with my Frenchie, Luna, and spending time with my family.”

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give younger riders who want to compete in college?
A: “My advice would be to understand that riding on a team takes maturity, teamwork, and communication. Building relationships—with coaches, teammates, horses, and all the people who help along the way—is such an important part of the journey. Being friendly, open, and coachable will take you a long way.”

Q: Describe the Auburn equestrian team in one word.
A: “Powerful.”

Q: If you could ride anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
A: “Honestly, I’d love to ride on my own farm one day in the future. My dream is to have all my retired horses in my backyard, with my young children and future husband by my side. That’s my ultimate vision of happiness.”

Q: Who or what inspires you most when you ride?
A: “I’m inspired most by “little Sofia”—the younger version of myself from about 13 years ago. Back then, I dreamed of being a cowgirl, owning a horse, showing, and being part of an equestrian team. Every time I ride or accomplish something, I think about how amazed little Sofia would be, and that motivates me to keep going.”

Q: What’s one thing about Auburn equestrian that most people don’t know?
A: “One thing people don’t always realize is just how much hard work every girl on this team puts in. In my time here, I haven’t seen a single person not pull their weight. Every teammate goes the extra mile, helps one another, and genuinely loves this team. That kind of dedication and family bond is really special.”