Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Luke Scott donated $5,000 to club sports, specifically for the Stetson Shooting Club. Scott (pictured at right signing check) is the first charter contributor for the club’s endowment.

The donation will become the foundation for the endowment goals of the Shooting Club, as it works to raise $100,000 over the next five years. At that level the funds will act as a financial platform, generating enough money in interest to cover operational costs of the club. Without the endowment, the club has to apply for grants.

While visiting Stetson last November, Scott gained a personal interest in the Shooting Club. He met with the club’s advisor Richard Libby; Wendy Libby, president of Stetson; Richard George, trustee; Ryan Stanford, Shooting Club president; and Terry Williams, a long-time friend of Scott’s and resident of DeLand. Together they discussed the future of the club, the importance of continuing education for firearms, and the goals set for the club. Scott, believing in the success and importance of the Shooting Club, decided to become the club’s first charter contributor.

The Stetson University Shooting Club was founded in 2009 by Lanny ‘Trey’ Moore with the help of Richard Libby as the University Mentor. Since 2009, the club has grown exponentially with a total of 18 active members in the club today.

“In the future I would like to see consistent growth, both in terms of number of members but also in new initiatives such as community service, education, and traditions,” said Stanford. “The Shooting Club is not simply about gaining the opportunity to fire a shotgun. It provides the opportunity to connect and work with terrific members of Stetson faculty, city officials, and engaged community members. The Shooting Club is surrounded by experienced people who support and help you grow into a leader.” Stanford said he takes pride in the club and the hard work all its members have done to make the organization grow.

The Shooting Club meets every other Monday at 4 p.m. in LBC 135. Club members practice at the Volusia County Skeet and Trap Club, on Friday or Saturday from 1-4 p.m. They compete 2-3 times per year in skeet, trap and wobble trap. If you are interested in joining the club, contact Reba Larose at [email protected] for more information.

by Lauren Robbins