Huskers Defeat Bulldogs in Season Opener

Charleston, S.C.- The No. 11 Nebraska rifle team won its first match of the season against the No. 19 Citadel Bulldogs on Saturday, behind a record performance by freshman Emma Rhode. The final score was 4,703-4,624.

Four Huskers placed in the top five overall, led by Rhode, who placed first with a score of 1,187. She was followed by freshman Vittoria Watts in second (1,178), junior Madelynn Erickson in third (1,176) and freshman Camilla Johannessen in fourth (1,162). 

"The team did an excellent job," said Head Coach Mindy Miles. "There are points to pick up for everyone for tomorrow, but they know what they need to be mindful of tomorrow. Emma Rhode had an outstanding debut- a 590 smallbore and 597 air is absolutely phenomenal, and we are very proud of her. Tori also had a great aggregate. Maddie took off right where she left off last season with a 587 smallbore. It is a great match when the team comes within a couple points of the school record on the first match. I can't wait to see what this season holds for these amazing student-athletes."

In the smallbore, Rhode led the Huskers in first place (590). She was joined in the top five by Erickson (second, 587) and Watts (third, 584).

Rhode also placed first in the air rifle with a score of 597. This score ties the Nebraska air rifle record that is also held by Rachel Martin, Hannah Virga, Elena Flake, Emily Cheramie and Cecelia Ossi. Watts followed in second place (594) and Erickson (589) and Johannessen (588) rounded them out in fourth and fifth, respectively. 

Nebraska will face No 17. Georgia Southern tomorrow at 12 p.m. central.