Equestrian is traditionally associated with grace and manners.

Sunday, the University’s riders reached out and showed solidarity to their visiting opponent, Delaware State University.

On Friday, Delaware State suffered from a school shooting.

At their opening match at the Animal Science Complex, University riders wore ribbons sporting Delaware State’s school colors of blue and red.

Coach Meghan Boenig told some members of the team about the shooting Friday at their respective practices.

Riders Melinda Drury, Amy Klebesadel, Lauren Love and Andrea Turnbull, without instruction, spent nearly $20 and two hours Saturday night making more ribbons and armbands.

“What happened on Friday was really tragic, and they still came down here,” Drury said. “We knew what was going on and we wanted them to know that we were here for them. It was not about riding – it was about students coming together.”

The small gesture was noticed by the Hornets.

“The coach from Delaware State (Jennifer Ridgely) came up to us and thanked us. She said it was very thoughtful,” said sophomore Leah Pharr.