Both SHS, SA see progress of teams

Both archery coaches at Starkville High School and Starkville Academy have noticed improvements with their teams as the season hits the stretch.

The Yellow Jackets defeated the Volunteers 3,287-2,902 in the second meeting between the neighboring schools on Tuesday, but there was an encouraging sign of where they are headed in the future.

With the North State qualifying meet next, Starkville Academy coach Tate Fischer likes where his team stands.

“We’ve been pretty consistent,” Fischer said. “We’ve been taking baby steps and getting better, better and better. Hopefully next year we’ll be able to host a couple of meets in our gym. The kids are really having a good time doing it.”

Jackson Walters was the highest scoring male for the

Vols with a 262, while Colton Smith was second at 260. Senior Austin Tucker was the highest finishing female at 257.

For SHS, Hayden Johnson was the highest finishing male with 289, while Joey Forrester was second with 286 on his senior night. Kylie Headley was the highest finishing Lady Jacket

with 283 on her senior night and Jenna Holder was the next highest female at 276.

SHS coach Bubba Forrester said there will be a void left without the seniors, but believes he has capable replacements waiting in the wings.

“I’m going to miss them a lot when they are gone, but someone else will step up,” coach Forrester said.

The Jackets have only lost one meet this season and that was to Amory. The two teams face off in a rematch on Saturday.

“Hopefully, I can get my revenge,” coach Forrester said with a grin.

Starkville High School’s Cassin Gant focuses on the target during Tuesday night’s archery meet against Starkville Academy. (Photo by Chris Mcmillen, SDN)

Members of the Starkville Academy archery team shoot during one of their rounds against Starkville High School on Tuesday night. (Photo by Chris Mcmillen, SDN)