News release from Texas A&M Athletics:
BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION – The Texas A&M equestrian team added highly accomplished equine mentor Ruth Sorrel to the staff as director of operations and assistant coach, head coach Tana McKay announced Monday.
“We are so excited to bring Ruth’s expertise and talent to Texas A&M,” McKay said. “She will be helping in the operations as well as recruiting and coaching. I am even more thrilled that our athletes will get a chance to learn from her and receive her mentoring. Ruth will be a huge asset to our program and will fit right in with our amazing staff.”
An industry leader for nearly two decades, Sorrel enjoyed a successful 14-year stint mentoring the western riders at South Carolina (2005-19), including the last eight seasons as associate head coach.
During her time in Columbia, Sorrel instructed 14 All-Americans and 22 All-SEC riders. She also coached three SEC Riders of the Year. Sorrel mentored the Gamecocks’ western team to three consecutive SEC Championship crowns from 2012-14 as well as NCEA national titles in 2007 and 2015.
“I am incredibly excited to join the Texas A&M equestrian staff,” Sorrell said. “My previous coaching experiences have equipped me with valuable skills and insights that I am eager to bring to this esteemed program. As an Aggie, I feel a deep sense of pride and enthusiasm in contributing to the team’s legacy and supporting the athletes in reaching their fullest potential. I look forward to collaborating with a great staff and fostering a positive and competitive environment where we can achieve great things together.”
Since departing South Carolina, she has served as owner and consultant of Sorrel Equestrian Consulting helping riders in the college recruiting process.
Sorrel started her coaching career with one-year stops as an assistant at Auburn and Fresno State.
A graduate of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in insurance and risk management, she lettered two years for the Gamecocks and served as captain for the 1999-2000 season.
Sorrel earned the NCEA Distinguished Alumni recognition in the Equine/Trainer/Coach category in 2017 for her significant contributions. She has been extremely active in the NCEA serving stints on numerous committees, including finance, championship, sponsorship and sports advancement.