LAS CRUCES, N.M. – New Mexico State equestrian head coach Robin Morris-Walters has announced the appointment of Shannon Dooley as the assistant coach for the squad. 
 
"I'm really excited that Shannon is joining the coaching ranks here at New Mexico State," said head coach Morris-Walters. "She was a great competitor for us. With her experience and the energy she brings to the team, she is a great addition to the staff. Shannon is an Aggie through and through and will elevate the level of this team."
 
"I'm thrilled to be stepping up into the assistant coaching position here at New Mexico State" said Dooley. "I treasured my time competing on the equestrian team here and I'm excited to continue to help promote the team. With my competitive spirit and positive outlook, I believe we can improve on an already successful team."
 
Dooley competed for the Aggies for four years before spending the 2015-16 season as a student coach. During her time in the Crimson and White, she was a starter in both equitation on the flat and equitation over fences for the squad.
 
Dooley has over 16 years of experience in riding, training and competing in equitation, hunters and jumpers. While competing for NM State, she was named the Most Improved Player in hunter seat in 2015 and was then selected for the Most Outstanding Player award in hunter seat in 2015.
 
In addition to her time competing, Dooley has worked as a barn worker and groom where she cared for over 30 clients and lesson horses on a daily basis and during competitions. In addition, Dooley was a working student at Castlemar Farms, Ink, a prestigious world class equestrian training and sales facility.
 
The Aggies open their season on Saturday as they hold the Crimson and White Scrimmage at 10 a.m. MT in the New Mexico State Equestrian Center. Admission is free.
 
For more information on NM State equestrian, visit www.nmstatesports.com and follow the team on Twitter @nmsuequestrian.