FAIRFIELD, Conn. – After 15 years of dedicated leadership, Sacred Heart University equestrian head coach
Tiffany Hajdasz has announced her retirement. Since taking over the program in 2010, Hajdasz has built SHU into a perennial powerhouse in collegiate equestrian, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, mentorship, and competitive achievement.
"I am incredibly grateful for the dedicated student-athletes that have been a part of our program and for the amazing horses that we have had the opportunity to learn from," said Hajdasz. "I have many fond memories that I will always hold dear to my heart. I look forward to watching the continued success of the program under Coach Lloyd and I am excited for the future of SHU Equestrian."
Under Hajdasz's guidance, the Pioneers reached unprecedented heights. Most recently, SHU secured back-to-back IHSA Reserve National Championships in 2024 and 2025, establishing the program as one of the nation's elite. The 2023 season was especially historic, as Sacred Heart was the only Division I program to qualify for both the IHSA and NCEA National Championships.
Throughout her tenure, Hajdasz led her teams to multiple regional and zone titles, including:
- IHSA Zone I Reserve Champion finishes in 2018–19 and 2022–23
- IHSA Zone II Reserve Champion and Zone II Region IV Champion titles in 2024–25
- 10 IHSA Region Championships
In addition to team success, her student-athletes shined individually. Four Pioneers earned the opportunity to compete in the prestigious Cacchione Cup at the IHSA National Championship, and her program produced 5 All-Americans, 11 All-ECAC honorees, and 38 All-Academic selections. Over the course of her career, Hajdasz amassed more than 100 wins and was a respected contributor to the sport, serving on multiple National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) committees.
"Tiffany has left a lasting imprint on SHU Equestrian," said Judy Ann Riccio, Executive Director of Athletics. "Her passion for the sport, commitment to her athletes, and drive for excellence have elevated the program to new heights. We are incredibly grateful for all she has done."
