The Emmanuel Clay Target team is recognized as a top tier program in NCAA DII. However, for years, the team only dreamed of having a home shooting range. Three years ago, the owner of a local gun club proposed a management agreement with Emmanuel College to use and manage his gun club. This agreement allowed the team the opportunity to experience the responsibilities necessary to manage and keep a gun club running. In addition the team was able to shoot regularly and utilize the first class facility.
This semester that all changed as the owners, Randal and Ann King, decided to give the facility to Emmanuel College and the Lions Shooting Team. This exciting news allows the Lions to find a permanent home at the Bowman Gun Club just a few miles from campus.
The contribution includes:
- 40 acres of land
- 7 shooting stations, including skeet and trap machines
- 2400 square foot clubhouse
- 480 square foot shop
- 6 camper and RV hookups
Mr. King sees the contribution as an opportunity to expand the sport he loves among young people in our local community and the Northeast Georgia and Upper South Carolina region.
“I want to see young people experience the disciplines and excitement the shooting sports offer.”
As for the team, the Lions are excited to have a place to call home.
“I think it’s a big thing to have a practice facility close to the school,” said Clay Target Assistant Coach, Gina Shealy. “It’s beneficial to the students and the community. It will build a lot of unity and community within our team. We are so grateful to Mr. and Mrs. King for doing this for us, the school, and the Northeast Georgia area.”
What does it mean to have a home range?
“We’ve worked hard on the fields and gun club here,” said sophomore, Jami Giarrizzo. “We did a deep clean in the fall, took everything out and mopped the floors. Those little things mean so much, and now, it’s hard to believe it’s really ours. We are so proud of it. I’m very excited about it.”
Emmanuel President Dr. Ron White sees the addition as an exciting opportunity to grow the program and get more students excited about Clay Target Shooting. “We are so appreciative to Randal and Ann King for their generosity and for making this possible! Many young people will benefit from this gift for years to come.”
Go Lions!
