Huskers Drop NCAA Qualifier at West Virginia

Despite Janine Dutton's career-best 593 in air rifle, the Nebraska rifle team was defeated by No. 1-ranked West Virginia on Saturday in its NCAA Qualifier, 4,659-4,612.

The Huskers, who were ranked eighth nationally coming into the qualifying match, now must wait to find out their NCAA Championship fate. The NCAA will announce at a later date the eight teams and the individuals who advance to the championship, March 12-13, in Ft. Worth, Texas.

Amanda Jeffries and Christine Costello led the Huskers in smallbore with 573s apiece. Ryann McGough and Dutton shot 570 and 568, respectively. Costello contributed a 584 in air rifle and Sheena Mahloch recorded a career-best 583 as an individual.

The Huskers will compete at the GARC Championship, Feb. 20-21, in Oxford, Miss.