Xavier’s Caitlin Dvorak is most relaxed on shooting range

CEDAR RAPIDS — Merriam-Webster defines feeling “at home” as “relaxed and comfortable; at ease.”

This is the feeling senior Caitlin Dvorak feels while trapshooting.

Dvorak is the only senior on the Xavier trapshooting team this season. Her love for the sport was fostered at a young age through her family and it has continued to evolve over the years.

“When I was 10, I would always go to the shooting range with my dad and uncle,” Dvorak said. “As soon as I heard that there was a trapshooting team at Xavier, it immediately sparked my interest.”

Caitlin’s father, Craig, is proud of her growth in the sport and her courage to try something new.

“I have seen Caitlin venture into something I had no idea she would enjoy,” Craig said. “She has done very well with it and I am very proud of her.”

Caitlin’s leadership and passion is visible and something Coach Chad Dummermuth has noticed since she started.

“Caitlin has become more independent and confident since our first encounter,” Dummermuth said. “Her maturity and mental process of how she approaches the sport has grown dramatically. She has always been willing to do what is needed for the team without hesitation or a question and has been a great leader for the team.”

Dvorak hopes more people will consider going out for trapshooting and do something outside their comfort zone.

“Trapshooting for me is oddly kind of peaceful,” Caitlin said. “It is always fun to try something new and the coaches have been very nice and extremely helpful.

“My advice is to just relax and not be uptight. Just breathe and have fun. It is a great and unique experience.”

Dummermuth hopes the inclusive team environment will spark kids’ interest in trapshooting, as well.

“Trapshooting is a sport that everyone gets to participate in at every practice and meet,” Dummermuth said. “Everyone shoots no matter what their grade or capability is. It is also a sport that you can do for the rest of your life once you learn the basics.”

Xavier will host a home meet May 8 at Otter Creek Sportsman Club.