Bantam Rifle - Spring 2025 Recap

The USC Union Bantam Rifle Team returned from the Collegiate Club National Championships in Fort Wayne, IN, where freshman Mekayla Baker placed 3rd overall in air rifle. Baker, from Lewisville, NC, also earned 1st Team All-Star honors, while teammate Keagan Dean was named to the 2nd Team All-Star in air rifle. Both athletes were further recognized in the Western Intercollegiate Rifle Conference, with Baker earning 1st Team All-Conference and Dean receiving 2nd Team honors in both air rifle and smallbore. This season, the Bantams added smallbore rifle to their program, marking the first time both shooters competed in the event after transitioning from high school air rifle competition. The team's season included 13 matches, qualification for the National Junior Olympic Championships, and the challenge of adapting to heavier rifles and specialized gear. Looking ahead, Dean will graduate and join Wofford's NCAA rifle team, while USCU will welcome new recruit Dawson Hyatt as the program continues to grow.