The Ware County Gators Rifle Team delivered another impressive performance on Monday, March 2, 2026, hosting Wheeler High School at the Ware County Shooting Complex in the GHSA State Semifinals.
Competing in the 3x10 Air Rifle course of fire, the Gators’ varsity squad (Ware A) claimed the top spot of the day with a commanding team aggregate score of 1161-66, outpacing Wheeler High A (1121-48) and securing their position at the top of the standings.
Ware A Leads the Way
Ware A showed remarkable consistency across all three positions:
Kneeling: 390-21
Prone: 399-32
Standing: 372-13
Total: 1161-66
Leading the charge individually was Angel Hernandez, who posted a team best 292-17 aggregate, highlighted by a perfect 100 in the prone position.
Strong supporting performances included:
Autumn Buskirk - 290-18
Gabbie Howard - 290-14
Camdyn Thornton - 289-17
Mason Briggs - 277-10
The Gators were especially dominant in the prone position, nearly flawless as a team and setting the tone early in the semifinal matchup.
Wheeler High Finishes Second
Wheeler High A delivered a competitive performance with an aggregate score of 1121-48. Rylan Forest led Wheeler with a 286-12, while Natalie Kirshner added a 284-14 effort. Despite a strong prone showing, Wheeler was unable to close the gap in kneeling and standing.
Depth Across the Program
Ware County’s depth was also on display:
Ware B placed third overall with an aggregate of 1102-38, led by Ben Dean (281-10) and Grant Johnson (278-7).
Ware C finished fourth with a total of 708-12.
Ware 4-H placed fifth with a 556-20 aggregate, highlighted by Greyson Christmas’ 282-13.
Wheeler also had an individual competitor, William Petty, who recorded a 256-7.
Up Next
The Ware County Gator Rifle Team will now prepare to host the GHSA State Rifle Championships on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Ware County Shooting Range. Competition is set to begin at 9:00 AM, as the Gators look to carry their semifinal momentum into the state finals.
Spectator Information
All spectators are reminded that normal parental supervision policies will be enforced at the event. Students must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.
Additionally, the clear bag policy will be in effect. Only approved clear bags will be permitted inside the venue to ensure the safety and security of all participants and guests.
The Gators look forward to competing on their home range once again as they aim to finish the season strong in front of their community.
For more results, please click the link below.
3/2/2026: Ware Vs. Wheeler High School (GHSA Semi Finals)
For more photos, please click the link below.
3/2/2026: Ware Vs. Wheeler High School (GHSA Semi Finals) Photos
