Oct. 24, 2009

MURRAY, Ky. — After falling in its first regular-season loss in 359 days, the Kentucky rifle team rebounded with a 4674-4604 win over state rival Murray State, the best team score recorded in the NCAA this season, on Saturday at the Pat Spurgin Rifle Range.

Kentucky notched the highest team score recorded in the nation this season in just its fourth match of the year. UK was led by senior Ashley Jackson, who finished with a school-record 595 in air rifle and a team-best 582 in smallbore.

“I was pleased with the effort our team put forth today,” UK head coach Harry Mullins said. “Both guns are starting to come together a little more consistently. With what I saw today, I think that we showed ourselves that we have the diversity in the team makeup to bring the numbers up to where we want.”

Freshman Katie Fretts finished with a 590 in air rifle and a 575 in smallbore. Senior Tom Csenge totaled a 586 in air rifle and a 577 in smallbore, while sophomore Ethan Settlemires finished with a 587 in air rifle and a 581 in smallbore.

“Ashley tied the school record in air rifle and Katie broke 590 for the second time in three matches. I am real proud of both of them, along with the rest of the team. Heather and Ethan also each had solid days. If the team keeps working hard we will continue to see good things.”

UK will return to action Saturday, Oct. 31, hosting Jacksonville State at UK’s Barker Hall.

“Breaking 4670 made the bus ride home a lot more fun than the flight last week,” Mullins said. “We just need to remember that we need to stay focused on our goals and stay the course with the plan. We will enjoy the weekend, but then get back to work Monday.”