FOR MAKENZIE CAMPBELL, TRAP SHOOTING IS NOT JUST A FUN AND CHALLENGING SPORT. IT’S THERAPEUTIC.
“When I see a clay target break, it’s like all the stress is crumbling off my shoulders,” said Campbell, the 2020 Washington State High School Clay Target League Spring Special Conference High Overall Average Female.
While continuing to shoot in college, the Sequim, Washington native aims to give back by coaching her old high school team and welcoming new student athletes to the sport she loves.
PullUSA: How did you get into trap?
Mackenzie Campbell: Since I could remember, I was out shooting with my family. Then in eighth grade I remember having the high school trap team coming in and there was only one girl. I wanted to change that. I wanted to be a role model for other girls who wanted to join the team.
PullUSA: Who was your biggest influence?
Campbell: My dad has taught me the most. He taught me that it’s OK to feel defeated in competition as long as I always get back on my feet and do my best. And that it’s OK to be different than other people.
PullUSA: What’s the best part of the League?
Campbell: It’s a group of kids and young adults who can all connect on one thing in such a time that people feel disconnected.
PullUSA: What other activities have you taken part in outside of the League?
Campbell: I like to hang out with friends, go camping, driving around in the woods, and basically anything outdoors is what I love to do.
PullUSA: Will you continue competing after high school?
Campbell: I definitely plan on continuing to shoot trap, and I hope to help coach and motivate the incoming kids to the team.
PullUSA: How can we convince more students to join the League?
Campbell: It’s a great group to be a part of. It gives you a sense of confidence I can’t even explain. To me, shooting is peaceful. When I see a clay break it’s like all the stress crumbling off my shoulders. And to me my team is like a family. We always motivate each other and are side by side. It is truly an amazing group to be a part of.
PullUSA: What are your college plans?
Campbell: I am going to Peninsula College right now and after two years I will be transferring to Central Washington University. I am studying criminal justice to become a police officer.
