Conner Smith tabbed as new Midway University Equestrian Western coach

Midway University Vice President of Admissions and Athletics, Rusty Kennedy, has announced the hiring of Conner Smith at the new head coach of the Equestrian Western team. “We are excited to welcome Conner to Midway University,” noted Kennedy. “He will no doubt help build upon our rich tradition of success we have enjoyed with our Western program over the years.” Smith comes to Midway after serving as the Assistant Trainer at Carrie Grose Quarter Horses – an organization that specializes in the All-Around events for both the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) and the American Paint Horse Association (APHA). “I am so honored to be the western coach at Midway University,” said Smith. “Together we will also become better for our industry.” Prior to getting his start in coaching and judging at various 4-H events, Smith enjoyed a very successful riding career at St. Andrews University in Laurinburg, North Carolina. There, he graduated in May 2018 with a Bachelors of Arts in Equine Business Management. Smith won the IHSA National Championship in open horsemanship in 2018 where he competed against the top open horsemanship riders from across the country.