LAKE HUNTINGTON – Sullivan West senior Ryann McElroy was all smiles, surrounded by family and friends. This fall, McElroy will attend Alfred University to participate in their intercollegiate athletics equestrian program. 

Ryann is a multi-sport athlete, participating in equine, including the Hunt Seat Team with the Interscholastic Equestrian Association, NYS National Horse Judging Team, Sullivan County 4-H Horse Show, high school soccer, basketball, golf, indoor track and other extracurricular activities such as the Sullivan West Student Council, Diehl Us In 4-H Club and Sullivan West FFA just to name a few. 

Ryann is pursuing Business Administration as her major and will minor in Equine Studies. “I have always loved horses; this way I can have a steady job while doing something I love,” she shared. In the future, she hopes to have her own horse farm where she can pass on her knowledge to the next generation. Justin McElroy, Ryann’s dad, shared his thoughts. “We’re very proud. There were a couple of choices, and we’re very, very happy she chose Alfred University. 

I think academically, it’s a fantastic school. The equestrian team is a younger team and they’re building every year. It’s also only three hours from home, but we think it’s a fantastic decision and we look forward to watching her compete up there.”Coaches and friends who were unable to attend the signing shared their thoughts about Ryann through written letters. “Ryann has been a member of the golf team for the last two years. She has been a mentor to our younger players. She is well respected by her teammates and her teachers,” Coach Pat Donovan. Soccer coaches Brockner and Cummings said, “We wish Ryann the best of luck in her future endeavors and know that she will be successful in anything she sets her mind to do.”

Megan Diehl Blumenthal, Ryann’s equestrian coach and trainer, said, “I’m so excited about Ryann and her future, she is one of the most hard working and persistent horseback riding athletes I have ever had. I’ve had the privilege to see her from her first walk-trot lesson to jumping 3 feet. It’s been an awesome experience to share that with her and make her dreams come true.”

Afterwards, Ryann’s family, friends, and teammates gathered for refreshments. Theresa Lounsberry, MEd Hunt Seat Instructor/Trainer, IHSA Head Hunt Seat Coach from the Alfred University Coaching Staff attended virtually.