STALZER STEPS DOWN AS HEAD SHOTGUN COACH

In a significant shift for the Indian Hills Shotgun Sports program, Coach Jake Stalzer has announced his resignation, marking the end of an era in which he played a pivotal role in developing the team. For nine years, Stalzer has been the face of the program and its only head coach since its inception. His leadership and commitment have been instrumental in shaping what is now a competitive and respected collegiate shooting program. "I cannot thank Indian Hills enough for all the opportunities it has provided me," stated Stalzer, reflecting on his long tenure at the institution. His journey began as a student-athlete at Indian Hills and included various roles, underlining his deep connection with the program and the community. Stalzer took the helm in October 2016, just 23 years old, amidst the program's establishment and has since guided it to new heights, including being recognized as the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference (ICCAC) Coach of the Year for the 2024-25 season. Under Stalzers guidance, the Indian Hills Shotgun Sports team has experienced unparalleled growth. Athletic Director Kelsi Weeks praised him as the foundation of the program, highlighting how he fostered a culture of competitiveness, integrity, and a familial atmosphere. His departure is marked not only by achievements on the field but also by the lasting impact he has had on the athletes he coached. The standards he set will resonate long after he steps down. Stalzer's tenure has been characterized by numerous successful seasons, and one of his key contributions has been advocating for the sport at the collegiate level. His efforts contributed to the introduction of postseason awards and All-Region teams, giving athletes more recognition. In the 2024-25 season alone, 10 athletes earned postseason honors, a testament to the program he built. The Warriors, during Stalzer's leadership, consistently competed at high levels nationally, even capturing national runner-up titles at the ACUI/SCTP National Championships in San Antonio, TX, during the 2023-24 season. Their success extended beyond the competition range, with many athletes earning Academic All-Region honors as well, culminating in a significant milestone when the team celebrated their first Academic All-American award in junior college sports shooting in 2023-24. Stalzer's decision to step down was not taken lightly. "This was a very difficult decision for myself and my wife, who I also met here at Hills, however, it is time for a new chapter and I am looking forward to what the future holds," he said. His departure signals a transition for both him and the program, a moment for reflection on what has been accomplished and what lies ahead for Indian Hills Shotgun Sports. As he steps away, Stalzer expresses deep gratitude to his predecessors and colleagues for their support over the years. He acknowledges their vision in recognizing the potential for such a program and their faith in him to lead it. His heartfelt message to the students he coached illustrates the profound connection he formed with them, stating, "You are the reason why I came to work each and every day excited to do great things." The landscape of collegiate shotgun sports may change, but the legacy of Coach Stalzer will certainly inspire future generations of athletes. With the foundations he laid, the Indian Hills Shotgun Sports program is poised to continue its legacy of excellence. The future of this program remains promising, and as Stalzer moves on to new ventures, the community stands ready to support the next chapter in the Warriors story.