Impressive Showing for Wildcat Shotgun Team

SPARTA, IL- The Bethel Wildcat Shotgun Team competed recently at the 2026 Collegiate Spring Central Midwest Conference Championships, delivering an impressive performance against strong conference competition.

Team Success

Despite the challenging wind conditions and frigid weather on the final day of competition, the Wildcats rose to the occasion. Through determination, focus, and consistency across all events, the team secured third place in Team HOA (high overall).

Every teammate contributed to the overall score, proving that even a tight-knit team of just eight athletes can achieve big results when they work together. Their resilience and unity were on full display throughout the competition.

Individual Highlights

Two Wildcats earned individual honors, both juniors who played a huge role in the team's podium finish.

Dalton Berry

Dalton Berry delivered a dominant all-around performance, earning top finishes across multiple disciplines and helping power the Wildcats to their third-place team finish.

Men's HOA

- 1st Place - Men's Sporting Clays

- 2nd Place - Men's Double Skeet

- 2nd Place - Men's Doubles Trap

- 3rd Place - Men's Super Sporting

Cody Hinton

Cody Hinton demonstrated precision and composure in the trap events, capturing a first-place finish and adding crucial targets to the team's overall trap score.

- 1st Place - Men's Double Trap

- 2nd Place - Men's Trap

 Looking Ahead

In just two weeks, the Wildcats will travel to San Antonio, Texas to compete in the 2026 Collegiate Clay Target Championships. The team is eager to build on this momentum as they prepare these next few weeks to represent Bethel on the national stage.

The Wildcats' performance at the conference championship reflects their dedication, preparation, and commitment to excellence. Congratulations to the team on a strong showing and best of luck as they head to nationals.

Coach's Perspective

Head Coach Steve Thomas shared his thoughts on the weekend:

"I'm really proud of this team's performance this weekend, we had some adverse weather conditions, and they didn't let it affect their drive and passion for the sport."

Assistant Coach Clay Cherry added:

"It was great to get back into competition and identify a few things we can improve on before we compete at Nationals. This group of athletes and families is what makes Bethel a special place to coach."