DALLAS (SMU) -- Maggie Nealon has been named Assistant Jumping Seat Coach by SMU Equestrian Head Coach Brad Kearns in an announcement on Friday. 

Nealon comes to the Hilltop from Texas A&M, where she was a student-athlete for five seasons followed by being a student coach for one. In her inaugural coaching season, she assisted the team to an SEC Championship and an NCEA National Championship runner-up spot, where Jumping Seat dominated, 7-3. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Maggie Nealon to the SMU Equestrian family," stated Kearns. "Maggie brings tremendous enthusiasm, a wealth of knowledge, and valuable experience from her time competing and student coaching at Texas A&M. Her passion for developing student-athletes and her commitment to excellence make her a fantastic addition to our program."

While a student-athlete, she completed her career with nine total Most Outstanding Performer (MOP) awards. Nealon was named a 2024 NCEA All-America, Texas A&M Equestrian Program Record Holder for Flat at an SEC Championship meet (89.33), program record holder in Flat at 96.0, and was Texas A&M Most Outstanding Player from 2022-25. 

"I am incredibly excited to join the SMU family and can't wait to get started," says Maggie Nealon. "My experiences as both a student-athlete and student-coach have equipped me with valuable perspective, while preparing me for this opportunity. I'm looking forward to contributing to the continued success of this program and helping our student-athletes compete for championships and bring rings back to the Hilltop. Pony Up!"  

"We are excited for the positive impact she will have on our team and look forward to the energy and expertise she will bring to SMU," Kearns added.

The Mustangs will return to action later this fall.