Haley Zimmerman is first up in SMU Equestrian's 2020 Senior Spotlight series. Zimmerman came to SMU from Carmel, Ind. and competes in the jumping seat disciple on the flat. This season, she has won three of her five matchups, earning wins versus Baylor, at TCU and at Auburn. She was named the MOP for Flat competition at Auburn after winning with a 79. In her first three years at SMU, Zimmerman earned three MOP honors, was named a First Team Academic All-American in 2018 and Second Team in 2019 and has earned multiple conference and NCEA honors.

Do you have any superstitions or pre-meet rituals?
I always wear the same show coat. Everyone else alternates show coats, but Vivian and I wear the same ones every time.
 
What's your go-to pump up song?
"Starships" by Nicki Minaj
 
Fun Fact
I played the violin for 15 years.
 
How did you get into equestrian?
My grandmother's neighbor's daughter took me and my sister riding one day because we were at my grandparents' house while my parents were gone. It was very random and out of the blue but it was fun!
 
Which SMU horse is your favorite and why?
Punch – everyone knows! He's my go-to guy and he always has been.
 
What's your favorite memory from SMU?
We usually take a bus to UT Martin it's so much fun! We fit too many people on there, but it's a blast because we all get to spend so much time together and we play games and just hang out.
 
What are your plans after graduation?
I'm moving to Cincinnati, Ohio. I'll be working for PNC Bank doing asset management.
 
What's one thing you want to say to the SMU family?
Thank you for everything! I've had the time of my life being part of this team and it's been so fun.