That’s the shot
Riverina Leader, Page: 50, Wednesday, 18 March, 2009
In a sport traditionally dominated by their older male counterparts, two teenage girls are emerging as potential hot shots.
Maddi Zuliani and Stephanie Wade are only 14 but have already stamped their class in the junior rimfire category at the Wagga Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (SSAA).
The pair admit they stand out from their peers when discussing their hobby.
“It is a bit unusual for girls our age to be competing in these events, but we have a lot of fun,” Maddi said.
Maddi and Stephanie were introduced to the sport by their fathers Carlo and David respectively.
“I went to an SSAA open day and won the competition at my first go, which really got me interested,” said Maddi, a year 9 student at Mater Dci Catholic College.
“Consistency is a big factor ... it comes with experience.” For Stephanie, it’s a family affair.
Her father and sister Samantha, who is in year 12, shoot competitively and another sibling Alexandra will gain her minor’s permit later in 2009 when she turns 12.
“Dad gives me a few tips and I feel I’m improving all the time,” the Mount Austin High student said. “It also helps having Maddi there.” The club runs a monthly competition from February to November in each of rimfire group and score, centrefire group and score, military rifle, field rifle and shotgun.
Last year Maddi finished 11th in a field of 60 at the open club championship, while Stephanie was 14th. 2008 highlights Maddi first junior rimfire benchrest third open rimfire benchrest junior club champion 11th place open club championship Stephanie second junior rimfire benchrest fifth place open rimfire benchrest second club championship 14th place open club championship.
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