The Sweet Briar College Riding Program has reorganized its coaching staff within the NCEA and IHSA teams. Lizzie Fisch shifts from head coach of IHSA to NCEA jumping seat coach and co-coach of the show team. Sarah Miller steps up as head coach for the IHSA program and co-coach for the show team. Shannon Ferguson joins as the new assistant IHSA coach, bringing over 20 years of equestrian experience. Director Merrilee Wroten emphasizes the advantage of having four skilled coaches with significant industry expertise.

By the Numbers
  • Fisch led the Vixens to 6 Region Championships and 2 Zone Reserve Championships in 14 seasons.
  • Miller contributed to three Region Championships as a student-athlete and coached to a third-place finish at the 2022 IHSA Nationals.
State of Play
  • Fisch was named Zone 4 Region 4 Coach of the Year in both 2023 and 2025.
  • The coaching staff includes experienced professionals, enhancing the program's competitive edge.
What's Next

The newly restructured coaching team is expected to elevate the performance of Sweet Briar's equestrian teams in upcoming competitions. Plans to foster talent development and preserve the program's competitive stature are likely to be prioritized.

Bottom Line

The realignment of the coaching staff at Sweet Briar College strategically positions the program for continued success in equestrian competitions, leveraging the coaches' rich experience and skills to develop future talent.