South Dakota State University has appointed a former Jackrabbit standout to lead its equestrian program. The hiring, announced on January 22, 2026, follows the recent indictment of the previous head coach, Kamerra Brown, on felony grand theft charges. A supporter has launched a GoFundMe to aid Brown's legal defense amid the controversy.
South Dakota State University athletics announced on January 22, 2026, at 4:55 p.m., the hiring of Werkhoven as the new head coach for the equestrian team. Described as a former Jackrabbit standout, Werkhoven steps in to lead the program at a time of transition.
This development comes shortly after the indictment of Kamerra Brown, who served as SDSU's equestrian head coach. Brown faces a felony count of grand theft, accused of using university resources for personal purposes. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley stated in a January 8 press release that Brown allegedly used taxpayer resources to cover veterinary bills for her horses and to board personal horses for about a year.
Leigh Raymer, who served as SDSU's interim equestrian coach from 2010 to 2011, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support Brown's legal fees. As of January 22 at 5 p.m., the fundraiser had raised over $5,000 toward a $7,500 goal. Raymer, a former student athlete on the University of Georgia's equestrian team and founder of Delaware State's program, described the charges as unfair.
"I’m sure they won’t get a response, but I want this to be in their radar and I want them to look at it closer because I don’t think that this is something that should be a felony," Raymer said. She noted that it is standard for equestrian coaches to use personal horses in programs, with boarding and care covered similarly to leased animals.
Raymer recruited Brown, then a graduate student at SDSU, to be an assistant coach at Delaware State from 2014 to 2016. Brown allowed the team to use her personal horses, expecting coverage consistent with SDSU's policies for leased horses, according to the GoFundMe description.
SDSU spokesperson Mike Lockrem stated, "The university does not comment on pending investigations or litigation, nor can we comment on personal matters." Brown's next court date is February 23. Raymer expressed concern that the case could harm relationships with equestrian alumni, praising Brown's character as an honest and dedicated horsewoman.
