Pictured: Aiden Yell, one of the Lakers newest team members, taking his turn.

The Minnewaska Trap Team is heading into the season looking pretty sharp. The team recently  banked their reserve week scores, and over half of the team has an average of 20 or higher. 

“This is a great place to be at this point in the season. If we can get a few breaks with the weather, this should be a great season for us,” stated coach Jennie Stone.

The Lakers are set to compete on Monday the 18th, but because of weather, things may get postponed for the third time this season. They have already had to postpone two practices because of excessive winds over 25 mph, and Monday does not look much better.  

“We really need to get some practice in to work on those fundamentals that are usually kind of rusty in the spring and we just have not had the opportunity,” coach Stone added. “We are really looking forward to some decent weather so the kids can do that.”

The team only has two seniors this year, with the majority of the team between eighth and tenth grade. 

Levi Schultz crushed the team’s first 25-straight on his way to high gun for the week, with a 47×50.  Dylan VanZee, Isaac Hennen, August Reichmann, John Jenson and Ty Koubsky have also been carding some great scores, putting up at least one 24 each week.  

“We are getting lots and lots of 22s and 23s this spring, which is a great thing. Now we need to nudge those into 24s and 25s,” coach Stone remarked.

Most improved shooter for the week was Chase Wacker, who added 10 to his target count over last week. There are five girls on the co-ed team this season and Makayla Hagen is starting out very strong. 

“Makayla is carrying a 21 average already this season, with only one round under 20. She could definitely be a force in conference if she keeps progressing,” Stone observed.

This year the team is in Class 3A Conference 5 and will compete each week against Ashby, Frazee-Vergas, Lester Prairie, Mayer Lutheran, Mora, Pelican Rapids, Proctor and Red Lake Falls. Their shooting day at the state tournament in Alexandria will be Wednesday, June 15. If the Lakers place in the top 40 teams in the state, they would move on to the championship in Prior Lake the following week.