FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Sacred Heart University Athletics has announced that Hanna Lloyd will take over as head coach of the equestrian program, following the retirement of longtime head coach Tiffany Hajdasz. Lloyd, who has served as the program's assistant coach since September 2023, steps into the leadership role after an accomplished career as both a student-athlete and coach.

 "It's an honor to step into the role of Head Coach for the Sacred Heart Equestrian Team," said Lloyd. "I am excited to lead this passionate and hardworking group of student-athletes as we build on our program's strong foundation, push for excellence in and out of the ring, and continue to grow as a team."

Lloyd returns to the program she once helped lead as an undergraduate competitor. A standout for the Pioneers, she competed in both the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) and National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) formats during her collegiate career. In 2023, she played a pivotal role in SHU's eighth-place team finish at the IHSA National Finals, where she also secured a fifth-place individual finish in Open Flat. That same season, she helped guide the Pioneers to a second-place showing at the IHSA Zone I Championship, while also competing at the ECAC Conference Finals and NCEA Nationals in Ocala, Florida.

Outside of collegiate competition, Lloyd brings a wealth of experience from the junior, amateur, and professional ranks. She has trained under top professionals in New York and Florida, earning top ribbons at prestigious events such as the Marshall and Sterling Finals, USHJA Zone 2 Finals, and the National PHA Finals. Her junior accomplishments include a top-25 placement at the Capital Challenge Horse Show in the USHJA Jumping Seat Medal Flat Phase and a top-five overall finish at the Junior Hunter Finals.

Lloyd earned her degree in finance and management from Sacred Heart in 2023. Her familiarity with the SHU equestrian program, coupled with her extensive riding background, positions her well to continue the team's upward trajectory.

"We are thrilled to welcome Hanna Lloyd as the next head coach of our equestrian program," said Executive Director of Athletics Judy Ann Riccio. "As a proud SHU alumna and a talented young coach, Hanna brings both a deep understanding of our program's culture and a strong vision for its continued success. Her passion, competitive experience, and connection to our student-athletes make her the ideal leader to carry on the momentum built under Coach Hajdasz."