Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is proud to welcome JoBeth Scarlett to the equestrian program as the Head Hunt Seat Coach and Assistant Western Coach for the 2025 season. Scarlett brings a dynamic blend of coaching experience, competitive success, and academic achievement to the Pomeroy team, making her a valuable addition to the SMWC coaching staff.
Scarlett joins SMWC from Middle Tennessee State University, where she most recently served as an Assistant Hunt Seat Coach while pursuing her M.S. in Horse Science. During her time at MTSU, she helped coach both the Hunt Seat and Western teams to remarkable accomplishments, including back-to-back IHSA National Championships in 2023 and 2024. Her riders earned individual accolades at the regional, semifinal, zone, and national levels, underscoring her ability to develop talent across disciplines.
A standout collegiate competitor herself, Scarlett competed in both Hunt Seat and Stock Horse events throughout her undergraduate career at MTSU, where she earned her B.S. in Animal Science. She was a multiple-time IHSA Nationals qualifier and a dedicated leader, serving as President and Manager of the MTSU Equestrian Team, as well as Vice President of the Stock Horse Team. Her leadership extended beyond the arena as she mentored underclassmen, coordinated team operations, and contributed to program recruitment and community engagement.
In addition to her collegiate experience, Scarlett has an extensive background in the show pen, competing successfully in AQHA, TNSHA, NRHA, NRSHA, and ARHA events. She has earned multiple year-end high point awards, circuit championships, and AQHA World Show Top Tens, including a Level 2 Bronze Championship in Hunter Hack in 2024 on a personally trained horse.
Scarlett has also worked in the industry as a groom, show assistant, and exercise rider for several reputable programs, including The Jaeckle Center and Jerrell Performance Horses. Her expertise in show grooming, young horse development, rehabilitation, and facility management adds depth to her coaching approach.
JoBeth is currently completing her M.S. in Horse Science at MTSU, where her graduate research focuses on video-based education in collegiate equestrian programs. Her work includes developing educational resources for the IHSA, hosting youth outreach nights, and coordinating horsemanship clinics across Tennessee.
Scarlett holds certifications in IACUC and IRB, and is an active member of several professional associations, including the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association, American Quarter Horse Association, Tennessee Stock Horse Association, and United States Hunter Jumper Association.
Her passion for education, competitive excellence, and student development makes her an exceptional fit for the mission and values of SMWC. She looks forward to continuing the program’s tradition of excellence while building strong, confident riders both in the ring and in life.
