In Redwood County, conservation isn’t just about land—it’s about people. It’s about fostering a connection to the outdoors, building lifelong skills, and creating opportunities for youth to grow. One of the most meaningful ways Redwood County Pheasants Forever (RCPF) supports this mission is through an annual donation of a case of trap ammo for every student athlete participating in high school trap shooting.
This program directly supports four local teams—Wabasso, Redwood Valley, Red Rock Central, and Cedar Mountain—and helps ensure that cost doesn’t stand in the way of participation. It’s a point of pride for the chapter, standing alongside their broader work in habitat restoration, hunting heritage events, and youth conservation.
Let’s take a look at how that support made an impact this season.
Red Rock Central Trap Team
- Participants: 15 athletes (11 boys, 4 girls), grades 7–12
- Coach: Shane Nepperman
Coach Nepperman shares that the ammo donation “is a huge deal to our kids. It saves each family around $100, and covers every competition round for the season.” With this burden lifted, athletes can stay focused on improving their skills and enjoying the sport.
Season Highlights:
Senior Ethan Willhite shot a remarkable 49 out of 50 in the final week to win top shooter in the conference. Another inspiring moment came from a first-year shooter who started the season without hitting a single target, but finished with scores in the upper teens.
“Trap teaches mental toughness, focus, and responsibility,” says Nepperman. “You can’t let one bad round affect the next. And there’s no shortcut—you have to show up and put in the work.”
Redwood Valley Trap Team
- Participants: 34 athletes, grades 6–12
- Coach: Ron Matthews
Redwood Valley is experiencing record participation. “This year we’re taking our largest group ever to the state shoot, including our biggest varsity squad,” says Coach Matthews.
He emphasizes the financial and developmental impact of the ammo donation: “It helps keep things affordable, and the kids give back by helping at Pheasants Forever events, building public interaction skills.”
Season Highlights:
The team’s growth is a testament to trap shooting’s popularity and inclusivity.
“Trap is for everyone—young, old, boys and girls. And in Minnesota, more kids shoot trap than play hockey.”
Wabasso Trap Team
- Participants: 32 athletes
- Coach: Neil Cole
Coach Cole doesn’t mince words when it comes to the importance of Pheasants Forever’s support: “Ammo is the kids' biggest concern. The donation is huge.”
Season Highlights:
“Watching the improvement from start to finish is always the best part,” says Cole. That growth is fueled by safe firearms training, a competitive atmosphere, and community backing.
Cole also notes the kids’ gratitude:
“They all really enjoy the sport and appreciate the support they receive.
Cedar Mountain Trap Team
- Participants: 29 athletes (5 girls, 24 boys)
- Coach: Adam Kerkhoff
At Cedar Mountain, the donation made a noticeable difference. “It cuts the cost way down, so more kids can be a part of the program,” says the coach.
Season Highlights:
With no weather delays this year, practice was consistent and results followed. “The kids shot very, very well.”
More than just a sport, trap provides a sense of belonging.
“A lot of our shooters aren’t in other sports. Trap gives them a place to connect, build friendships, and grow in confidence.”
The team extends heartfelt thanks to the community:
“Your donations and support are what keep this program going.”
Looking Ahead
Redwood County Pheasants Forever is proud to back these young athletes—not just with ammunition, but with belief. These programs teach focus, perseverance, safe firearm handling, and respect for the outdoors.
As the sport continues to grow, so too does the impact of this community. Whether you’re a donor, volunteer, coach, or simply a fan of youth shooting sports—thank you. You’re helping these kids aim high and hit their mark, both on and off the range.