In just their second year as a team, the Haywood Homeschool Sportsman's Club has already made a powerful statement on the state stage, securing a third-place finish at the state meet. Competing against 232 teams at the start of the season, only 30 advanced to the championship—making this podium finish an impressive feat.

"For our second year as a team and our second year at state, we were happy with that third overall," said Coach Roger Thomas. The team also placed third in the hunter skills test, showcasing their all-around ability in a demanding competition.

But the finish was bittersweet. Just nine points separated them from second place, and Thomas noted that a single extra clay hit in shotgun, one more correct answer in the skills test, or a slightly better rifle performance could have moved them up. "As sweet as third was, it was kind of bittersweet, because we knew we could have taken second relatively easily," he explained.

While the podium spot is a major achievement, the team's greatest pride came from earning the Fred Rorrer Sportsmanship Award. "We're almost more proud of that," Thomas said, emphasizing that the team has focused on competing with integrity all year. "Whether we win or whether we lose, we're going to do it in the right way."

Experience played a key role in this year's success. Unlike last year, when the team went in blind and struggled with the meet's demands, this season they knew what to expect. "They weren't as nervous," Thomas said. That confidence translated into a stronger performance and a hunger for more. "I think for the kids that are coming back next year, it's like, 'Man, it was right there in our grasp.' It does give them a hunger to come back and do better next year."

Local rivals Pisgah and Tuscola also competed, with Pisgah finishing 16th. Coach Nathan Edwards acknowledged the challenge, noting, "We fell short a little bit. They put a lot of time and effort." Still, standout performances like Hunter Edwards' perfect score in shotgun—which led to a shoot-off—highlight the depth of talent in the region.

For the Haywood Homeschool Sportsman's Club, this season is more than a bronze finish—it's a foundation for future success, built on skill, sportsmanship, and a relentless drive to improve.