The Illini equestrian western team will face off against rivals St. Mary's of the Woods College in Terre Haute, Ind., Sunday.

Sophomore western team treasurer Pam Domash said that St. Mary's is a school that specializes in the sport and any fields that are relevant to it. Students can earn degrees in veterinary science, riding programs are offered as classes, barns are located on campus and their equestrian teams are varsity level.

"St. Mary's is an equestrian college. Horses is what they do," said senior western historian Amy Bender. "They have a lot of facilities that we do not have."

Bender said that because they have the advantage of owning facilities and horses, they are a powerhouse. They are a very competitive and impressive team. However the riders are not intimidating.

"Everyone knows you have to go and do your best. The general feeling for a horse show is a little bit nervous and little bit excited," said Domash. "But we are pretty prepared for it."

At the Oct. 26 show against St. Mary's the Illini performed very well, said Domash. They defeated their competitor in areas including rail work and walking. They were crowned high point champion and reserve high point champion.

To ensure that they will win again, the team will not only be ambitious but they will also focus on their rival's presentations and the behavior of the horses said Domash. They will concentrate on what the judges will be critiquing — riding position and the attitude of the riders.

Domash said that to help them train, coach Cat Roberts gives individual attention to each of the teammates.

"Cat knows what our weaknesses are," said Domash. "She will remind riders of what their weak points are, so we will remember to do better in the show."

Also, during practice at Stanton Stables in Urbana, some of the riders are videotaped, said Domash. They study their performance and think of ways to improve their riding abilities.

"It is a very helpful tool," said Domash. "It is one we have been using more this year."

Bender said the competition Sunday will be important for the team and for the individual riders. Everyone must earn a certain amount of points to get to regionals, which will be March 28 at Purdue in West LaFayette, Ind.