Sept. 15, 2003

Ft. Benning, GA - The Citadel rifle team was defeated in its first match-up of the season against North Carolina State at the 2003 USAMU Invitational in Ft. Benning, GA last weekend.

The Bulldogs men's team scored 1468 behind the Wolfpack's 1507 to finish in second place, followed by The Citadel women's team who finished with 1434 to take third place ahead of Wofford's 1042 at the NCAA match-up. "NC State had three weeks of practice that we didn't and they finished first. Wofford had no practice and finished last. That's just how things happen," Coach Bill Smith said.

Once The Citadel gets further into the season Smith said things will be looking good for the Bulldogs, especially the women's team. "We've got a strong team and I honestly think that the guys are going to have a tough time beating the girls by the end of the season," Smith said. "Four of the girls will easily be shooting in the 370s, which is tough to beat."

Senior shooter Keith Kamar has already caught the eyes of many, including Army members of the upcoming US Olympic rifle team who were working the match. Kamar, the top shooter in the match and the finals, shot a score of 10.39 in the finals. Smith said when Kamar was shooting, those working the match stopped to watch what they described as a world-class performance.

The Citadel Rifle Team will be traveling next to Dahlonega, GA for the NGSU SEARC 1 match-up on October 4.

USAMU Invitational

The Citadel Men

A. Atella 351

J. Dickinson 365

K. Kacmar 386

E. Rishel 366

Total 1468

The Citadel Women

C. Ratcliffe 348

K. Keating 367

S. Deuschle 358

V. Swan 361

Total 1434