Two Hillsdale College shooting teams, Olympic-Style Rifle and Pistol, are now accepting applications from students looking to join the competitive team for its upcoming shooting season.
Bart Spieth, rangemaster of the John Anthony Halter Shooting Sports Center, who led the college’s shotgun team to its first national championship in 2012, said now is an advantageous time to join one of the shooting teams, due to its recent partnership with USA Shooting.
“Our growing partnership with the USA Shooting Team will offer many opportunities to shoot side-by-side with our nation’s best,” Spieth said.
Mary Kate Brox, a junior and the captain of the rifle and pistol team, has been involved with the team since freshman year and recently placed fifth in an air rifle competition at the 2021 Western Intercollegiate Rifle Conference (WIRC) Championships at Akron University.
Brox said there are many different routes that students take when considering whether to join a shooting team. While most join after taking the college’s introductory shooting class, the class is not a requirement for joining.
“Most athletes simply commit to coming to practices and competing in the various local and national competitions we attend each year,” Brox said.
Andrew Traciak, coach of the rifle and pistol team and instructor of the introductory rifle and pistol classes, added that students interested in becoming more involved with Hillsdale shooting sports need not participate in competitions.
“Students who are simply looking to improve their individual skills do not have to shoot competitively to receive coaching and shoot with the team,” Traciak said.
No matter their skill level, there are opportunities for all students interested in becoming more involved with shooting sports, according to Traciak.
“If you are not sure what area of the shooting sports fits you best, or if you want a fun one-credit class, I highly recommend checking out one of the credited classes offered at the Halter Center,” Traciak said.
Brox said that she has appreciated the opportunity to join the shooting team and improve her skills.
“Being on a team helps you experience that sense of community at home and at matches in a very different way,” Brox said. “It is also wonderful to practice with young individuals who can look over your position and help you make adjustments and become a better athlete.”
Senior Barrett Moore, a member of the shotgun team who walked on sophomore year, said his experience shooting competitively for Hillsdale has taught him many life lessons.
“Being able to shoot at Hillsdale has been a surprise and blessing,” Moore said. “Every practice has been a highlight. I am grateful.”