East Coweta rifle team seeks to defend their title

By MICHAEL BOYLAN
mboylan@thecitizennews.com

The East Coweta High School state champion rifle team began their season right where they left off last year, by defeating their first two opponents. The Indians defeated Woodward 1119-1087 and Westlake 1140-1050.

This year's team is comprised of two returnees: senior Doug Foster(captain) and junior Amber Crist. Joining the team for the first time are sophomore Bowen Behenna and freshmen Brandon Hobby and Thomas Nelson.

Since the majority of the team is new, the challenges of a successful season will depend on the accomplishments of these first-year shooters.

So far, so good.

Their dedication and work ethic have enabled these young athletes to achieve success that is rarely seen by such inexperienced shooters. Though only in the second week of the season, the team has qualified three individual athletes for the state championship Crist (290), Foster (285) and Behenna (285). The minimum qualifying score is 285.

The Indians' team average is best in Area 5 with 1129.50 out of a possible 1200 points. Close behind are Creekside at 1120.00, Henry County at 1115.50, Heritage at 1111.00 and Woodward at 1103.50.

Each shooter competes in three positions: prone, standing and kneeling. The maximum score in each position is 100 points. There is the possibility of 300 points per shooter and the team adds up the top four shooters score.

Area 5 is comprised of thirteen teams. Eight have scored over 1100 points, a noteworthy accomplishment. The top four teams earn the right to compete at the 16 Sectionals. Winners will compete at the state rifle championship.

"Many challenges lie ahead for our team, as coach, I know their will be ups and downs," said Coach John Skinner. "The true mark of a team is how they will face the challanges. Surrounded by youth and inexperience the excitement is evident, we look forward to a good season."

The Indians have had an excellent history in the sport. In 1997, the team was the runner-up in the area competition and placed fifth in the state. In 1998 and 1999, East Coweta won the area meet and finsihed second in the state. Last year, the squad won the area meet and the state meet.

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