In Episode 158 of Trap Talk, Zach Nannini and Richard Marshall Jr. sit down with Kooper D Freston — a young shooter who refused to quit when life hit him hardest. Kooper’s path in trap shooting started early, but everything changed after a devastating eye injury that threatened not just his shooting career, but his confidence and daily life.
Instead of folding, Kooper rebuilt himself — mentally, emotionally, and technically. He talks openly about the hardest moments, the support that carried him, and the adjustments he made to continue competing at a high level. His Autumn Grand Handicap win stands as proof that grit and discipline still matter in this sport.
This episode digs into:
• how a serious injury reshaped his approach
• the mental battles that come with loss and recovery
• the role family and friends play in keeping a young shooter going
• adapting technique and equipment after trauma
• safety and eye protection lessons every shooter should hear
• his push toward the All-American team again
Kooper’s story is a reminder to the next generation: setbacks don’t define you — how you rise does.
If you’re part of the trapshooting community, a parent, a coach, or a young shooter yourself, this one will hit home.
Watch, learn, and share — someone out there needs this story.
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