Trinity’s rifle team is on a roll this year after achieving second place at the WPIAL Championships last season, and they have no intention of letting up.
For 50 years, the rifle team has been an integral part of Trinity athletics because of their constant drive to succeed. Led by coaches John Husk, Katie Krocsko and Michael Krocsko, the team has been on fire with their placement in WPIALS over the last two years. They are hoping to achieve first place this year at WPIALS and eventually make it to States with their record of seven wins and two losses so far.
This year, the captains are Seniors Elizabeth Engle, Addison Zipko and Ava Montgomery, all of whom have been playing for the Varsity team since freshman year. The seniors on the team include Engle, Zipko, Montgomery, Ian Hadlock, Lilly Batson, Alexas Skariot, Emma Ledger, Aaron Rugg and Caleb Emerick.
The season began in September with weekly Monday-Thursday practices. The team members refine their skills at practice by choosing a relay to shoot at, followed by grabbing a jacket, sling, gun, glove and a target. Each student sets up their target and has 15 minutes to shoot.
The team consistently improves their skill through the drive to beat their biggest rival, Butler. In a constant battle for the top team, the Trinity rifle team is always on their toes with their competition.
As for the team collectively, morale is at an all-time high, and the members feel as though rifle has created a family of like-minded people. Through the sport, a reliable support system of students and coaches has formed.
“The team is like another family for me, and having that team to fall back on if I’m having a hard time or a bad match is just a wonderful support system. And we always give each other tips and tricks and know that we can always learn from our experiences,” Engle comments.
To the students and coaches, rifle is more than a hobby. It is an outlet that facilitates personal growth and self-fulfillment.
Coach Katie Krocsko furthers this, saying, “Coaching is so much more than teaching the basics of the sport. It’s being a steady and positive influence on the young people that are involved. I am honored to be a part of so many lives over the past two decades!”
As new students are introduced to the team, they are met with open arms and experienced coaches to explore the sport. Engle appreciates the guidance she was given by upperclassmen when she was a new member and hopes that she, as a captain, will offer the same support to her fellow teammates.
Hadlock reflects upon his time with the rifle team, adding, “I wouldn’t be who I am today if I was never a part of this team. You learn a lot about yourself and you are constantly competing against yourself to become better. I will forever be grateful for the chance to experience this sport and be a part of this family I have grown to love.”
Those who are interested in joining the team can contact any of the coaches.
