On behalf of De La Salle, Sportsmen’s Club moderator Mr. Mike Jolly recently accepted a check for $550 from the local chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). 

Jolly said the funds will be used to support the clay target program, helping to offset entrance fees for competitions. 

Several years ago, the local group, known as the “Beards and Spurs” chapter of the NWTF, partnered with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to help fund the “Archery in the Schools” program, an effort to get students interested in outdoor activities. 

The group’s initial donation of $3,000 during the 2005-2006 school year was used to purchase full sets of archery equipment.

In addition to Archery and the Clay Target program, the Sportsmen’s Club also offers students opportunities to participate in other outdoor activities. Currently faculty member Mr. John Berlin moderates the Kayak/Canoe group, and Mr. Joe Gerardi moderates the Ski/Snowboard Club. 

“Depending on student interest - and having moderators, we have offered fishing, paintball, fencing, rowing, and sailing,” Jolly said. 

He noted that alumni have earned college scholarships in fencing and rowing, and says the University of Michigan has a competitive fishing team.

On hand for the check presentation were students representing each grade level.

Pictured below are James Walter '23, Joe Olejniczak '24, Mike Jolly, Graham Gill '24, Anthony Cooper '25, and Curtis Yaek '26.