NW Illinois News

Senator Andrew Chesney, a Republican representing Illinois' 45th Senate District, recently awarded a $500 scholarship to the Scales Mound High School Trap Team. The funds are intended to support the school’s trap shooting program and were provided through the Illinois Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus.

Chesney highlighted the significance of the caucus, stating, "The Illinois Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus plays an important role in advancing policies that protect and promote hunting, fishing, trapping, and wildlife management in Illinois." He added, "As a member, I was proud to once again support these efforts by awarding a $500 scholarship to a local school. Trap shooting takes dedication and skill, and I was pleased to help the Scales Mound High School Trap Team offset costs associated with their program."

The Illinois Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus is noted as both one of the largest and oldest caucuses in the General Assembly. It includes members from both legislative chambers. In relation to trap shooting, approximately 500,000 recreational shooters participate in Illinois. The sport is accessible to individuals of all ages.

Scales Mound Trap Coach Jeremy Williams expressed gratitude for the contribution: "We participate in the Illinois State High School Clay Target League through USA High School Clay Target League. The support we receive from Senator Chesney does not go unnoticed nor does the support from our community. All these athletes work hard to accomplish goals during every spring and fall trap shooting season. Thank you very much to Senator Andrew Chesney and the Illinois Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus for this $500.00 grant."

The Scales Mound Hornets Trap Team regularly competes at local, regional, and state competitions.

Chesney was elected to represent Illinois’ 45th Senate District in 2023 after replacing Brian Stewart as state senator.