Fresno State Athletics
Senior spotlight: Allie Tamouzian
3/15/2016 12:00:00 AM | Equestrian
By: Kimberly Fisher
kimfisher@csufresno.edu
GoBulldogs.com
FRESNO, Calif. - Hunt Seat rider Allie Tamouzian is a Central Valley native who transferred from the College of the Sequoias as a junior and will graduate from Fresno State with an animal science degree this spring.
Tamouzian's dedication in the classroom was recognized after earning La Hacienda Academic Honor Roll in 2015. Over the last two seasons, she has competed in the pen in a scrimmage with USC at home (Jan. 31, 2015) as the Bulldogs defeated the Trojans 6-4 and additionally helped her team to a 5-1 victory after earning her respective point (67.5-63) in the annual Red vs. Blue Scrimmage on Sept. 26, 2015.
The No. 9 Fresno State equestrian team hosts a tri-meet with No. 4 Baylor and United Equestrian Conference (UEC) foe South Dakota State starting this Friday, March 18 at the Student Horse Center on campus.
Q: Why did you choose Fresno State?
Tamouzian: I am actually a third generation Bulldog, both my dad and grandmother are proud Fresno State alumni. I had been to Fresno State on a few occasions throughout high school, and it just felt like home. I knew I wanted to be a part of something bigger, and belong to a university with so much support and such strong, tight-knit school spirit. Fresno State also offers many great opportunities, like an outstanding program in my field of study, and the only NCAA Division I equestrian team in California.
Q: What has competing at Fresno State taught you the most?
Tamouzian: I could fill a book with what I've learned by being a part of this team. Every day I learn something new about myself, life, and the equestrian sport. But overall, to challenge myself and always strive to be better each and every day.
Q: Who has had the most influence on your athletic career and why?
Tamouzian: My dad Mike, my mom Pam and my brother Clayton. They are my number one fans, my support system and they believe in me even more than I believe in myself. I wouldn't be where I am today without them. Also, coach Kimberly HewsonBudnik and coach Eric Hubbard, for providing me with the ultimate opportunity for advancement in my athletic career by selecting me to be a part of the Fresno State equestrian team. I am very blessed and grateful.
Q: What pre-meet superstitions or rituals do you have, if any?
Tamouzian: I have actually worn the same pair of socks, with ponies and flowers on them, every show day since my freshman year of college.
Q: What is your most memorable moment as a Bulldog?
Tamouzian: Drawing and riding my favorite Fresno State equestrian horse, Cole, against USC my first season. In addition to that day, there are too many awesome memories to count with the great friends I've made and the amazing horses I've gotten to ride.
Q: What/who ignited your riding career?
Tamouzian: Oddly enough, no one in my family rides but it was something I knew I wanted to do from a very young age. A passion for horses is definitely a part of any equestrians' DNA. From day one, my dad, mom and my grandparents have made my dreams come true, and have been the backbone to my riding career. Additionally my riding instructor Ann Herrmann, who gave me the best foundation as a young rider, and my first collegiate coaches, Kim Pitigliano and team assistant Andria Fike, who had mass amounts of confidence in me and pushed me to great feats in college.
Q: What is something that most people don't know about you?
Tamouzian: That I'm a gamer. Although it's been awhile since I've gotten to play, I love old school PlayStation and playing with my family.
Q: How would your teammates describe you?
Tamouzian: They would describe me as Kim Kardashian. This is their long-time nickname for me, and it really stuck. And as much as it embarrasses me and I am always caught between laughing and asking them stop it, I may or may-not secretly love that they do it and thoroughly enjoy the inside jokes and laughter it creates. It's pretty great.
Q: Favorite genre of music or song to listen to before competing?
Tamouzian: Justin Bieber. Any song, anytime, anywhere.
Q: Which college courses did you enjoy the most at Fresno State and why?
Tamouzian: Animal anatomy and physiology with Dr. O'Bannon. Nothing is more exciting than learning inside and out about what interests you most. Also, the new industry tours class with Mrs. Henson, because we get to travel the state and immerse ourselves in some of the biggest, most influential agriculture and animal science based businesses in California and throughout the world.
Q: What are your favorite hobbies outside of riding?
Tamouzian: Concerts and traveling are definitely two of my favorite things and of course with the company of my family and friends, because you can't beat doing the things you love with the people you love.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
Tamouzian: I do not have a set direction, there is so much I want to do and see. I plan to complete an educational internship, most likely in the animal science industry. Which will allow me to explore the different opportunities of my field and gain some actual experience, while continuing to learn and build my resume. I can't wait for the next adventure.
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