In a highly anticipated match, the No. 3-ranked Kentucky rifle team claimed victory over No. 16 Army with a score of 4732-4690. Making an impressive return after the holiday break, the Wildcats improved their season record to 7-1. This win sets the stage for their next competition against No. 7-ranked Nebraska, which will take place at the Tronsrue Center on Sunday at 9 a.m.
Starting the match with a comfortable 20-point lead in smallbore, Kentucky held on to their advantage and also emerged victorious in the air rifle event. Their aggregate score of 4732 is the second-highest team score of the season. Leading the way for the Wildcats, Sofia Ceccarello secured top spot in smallbore with a score of 591 and clinched the aggregate honors with a total score of 1188. Emmie Sellers showcased her skills by achieving a career-high-tying score of 598 in the air rifle event.
Several other Wildcats had personal bests in this competition – Martin Voss achieved a 595 in air rifle, Jaden Thompson equaled her personal best in smallbore with a score of 588, and Emily Marne secured a career-high 563 in smallbore, tying her career aggregate at 1135.
Following a 54-day break between competitions, Coach Harry Mullins expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance. He praised their efforts, stating, “I was proud of the effort, a good day’s work for the first day back. Sofia had a good day and Braden had a solid day on both guns. Emmie, Martin, AJ, and Jaden all had career highs.” Mullins also noted that there were areas for improvement and looked forward to making necessary adjustments before their next match.
Sunday’s opponents, Nebraska, have an average score of 2333.33 in smallbore and 2375.17 in air rifle, resulting in an aggregate average of 4708.50. Cecelia Ossi leads the team with an average score of 585.667 in smallbore and 594.833 in air rifle. The Cornhuskers currently hold a 4-5 record for the season.
Overall, Kentucky’s impressive performance against Army sets the stage for an exciting showdown against Nebraska as they aim to continue their successful season.
