University of Georgia Athletics
Getting to Know Charley Thiel
October 15, 2014 | Equestrian
ATHENS, Ga.- While it is only her second year on the Georgia equestrian team, sophomore Charley Thiel has already made quite the impact. In her debut season with the Bulldogs, Thiel competed in 12 meets including the SEC and NCEA Championships. She was also named as the SEC Freshman of the Year in Reining, earned a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team and was selected as the team’s Western Rookie of the Year by Georgia’s coaches. The Dublin, Ohio native answered a few questions so we could get to know her outside of the arena.
Why did you choose the University of Georgia?
I chose UGA for many reasons, some very small and insignificant, but mainly because I fell in love with the coaches and staff, the girls, the campus, the facilities, and the overall positive atmosphere of the Bulldog Nation. I like that Athens is the perfect blend between the city life and the country life. There is always something fun to do. I love music and Athens is full of all kinds of it!
Who has had the most influence on your athletic career? Why?
My sister Madison has had the most influence on my athletic career as a whole. While she may be younger than me, we have grown up competing together for as long as I can remember. We are always pushing each other to do better and finding new ways to challenge ourselves in the arena. She helps me mentally prepare for meets and always has some words of advise when I need her.
Your most memorable moment in sports is?
Watching Lauren Tieche show against Oklahoma State at the 2014 NCEA Championships to secure the win for our team. It literally gave me goose bumps. I probably shouldn’t have been screaming as loud as I was atop a horse I didn’t know… but I just couldn’t help it. I have never seen college equestrian like that, and may never see it again.
Do you have a nickname on team?
Charles, Chuck, Char, Chi Chi, Princess Charles, Thiel.
What pre-meet superstitions or rituals do you have?
Music, music, music. It gets me pumped and calms me down. I also pray every time before I go in the arena.
Do you have a favorite type of music you listen to?
Country, with an occasional rap song.
What song best represents you?
Ice Ice Baby, Vanilla Ice. I can rap the entire thing.
Charley Thiel and the equestrian team return to action this Friday, Oct. 17 when they host an exhibition competition against Alabama and Berry College. The competition is set to begin at 3:30 p.m. Parking and Admission are free.
