New trapshooting program a welcome addition to outdoor education options
We’re very supportive of a new extra-curricular opportunity being offered to students in Ely, Babbitt and Tower. Trapshooting, the newest sport in Minnesota, has made its way to our neck of the woods.
On December 6, 2012 the Minnesota State High School League board of directors approved a presenting partnership with the clay target league for the 2014 State Tournament that was held on June 13, 2014. Trapshooting individuals and teams were recognized as high school sport champions like all other high school sports in Minnesota.
Graduates of Ely high school from years back fondly remember learning gun safety right in the classroom. Volunteers taught the classes in the evening and students would learn to shoot at the range in the basement of the Washington Building.
Those classes are still offered today but taught outside the school district with the field training done at the Rod & Gun Club in Winton.
The new trapshooting program requires students to have their gun safety certificate and basically expands from it. Students will be able to shoot clay targets at the range in Babbitt for a very reasonable fee.
For a $150 participation fee, students will receive two cases of shotgun shells, a shooting vest, a uniform and be able to shoot clay pigeons for two months at the Babbitt trap club. Shooting will take place on Sunday afternoons to not interfere with other extra-curricular activities.
The late Rep. David Dill was a huge proponent of this program and helped make it part of the State High School League. He would be proud to know students here will now be able to participate.
Trapshooting is a lifetime sport that can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to sharpening one’s hunting skills. We’re lucky to have both a range in Babbitt and one out at Winton as well.
There’s still time for students to sign up for the trapshooting program. Student registration is open until March 1. Contact head coach Chad Loewen at 218-827-2633 for more information.
