05/16/2026
We were honored with a visit from Matthew Kimball and his dad, Steven, while Matthew is home from college for a visit. Matthew is a former standout Grant Parish Shooting Sports Rifle competitor. He is now at the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio where he is a lead competitive shooter in air rifle and smallbore for the Akron Zips Rifle team. He is a leader for his NCAA rifle team where he sits in the top tier and travels with the team to competitions. As an incoming freshman, travelling to every competition in a season is quite an accomplishment. It takes a level of discipline and mental focus some are not willing to give to make it to this collegiate level.
We are proud that it all started in Grant Parish, Louisiana, for Matthew! What a joy to see one of our very own continuing to excel, lead and represent our parish with dedication, humility, and class. Matthewβs sportsmanship, discipline, and hard work have carried him far as he competes all over the country with his collegiate team. Once a 4-H shooter, always a part of our family. As alumni of the Grant Parish 4-H Rifle team who now competes on a NCAA collegiate level, it was refreshing to hear how it all began for him with humble beginnings. Our coaches started him with the fundamentals and his passion for the sport grew into a commitment where he spends hours daily honing his craft.
Not only does he excel on the range but the connections he has made at the University of Akron make us proud. Matthewβs visit reminded us why we do what we do. It makes it worth it for our volunteers and coaches within the parish 4-H program who invest in the youth. Matthew is a role model for younger youth. Matthewβs true 4-H grit and Louisiana roots are shining in Ohio and we are cheering him on.
Matthew is the son of Steven and Kyla Kimball and is a computer engineering major. In addition to his sport, he is committed to his academics. He just completed his freshman year at Akron and is now a sophomore. Thank you Matthew and Mr. Steven for stopping by! We look forward to keeping up with your shooting career and future endeavors.
