In Statesboro, Georgia, the Shooting Sports Education Center (SSEC) at Georgia Southern University is marking a significant milestone as it celebrates a decade of operations this week.

According to Matt Horst, the Director of the SSEC, the facility spans 30,000 square feet, dedicated entirely to the shooting sports. “We house an archery center alongside a firearms range,” Horst explained, underscoring the center’s comprehensive offerings.

The SSEC is not just a hub for local enthusiasts; it also hosts a variety of programs and teams. It serves as a multifaceted venue, functioning as a classroom, a public range, and a space for practice and competitions.

Horst emphasized the center’s inclusive nature. “We aim to provide an opportunity for people from all walks of life to learn about shooting sports,” he stated. “Our classes range from beginner to advanced levels, ensuring a family-friendly environment where individuals can learn to shoot safely, whether they are interested in archery or firearms.”

“The shooting center here is providing an opportunity for folks to learn the shooting sports,” he said. “We teach [classes] from the beginning to the advanced. We have a family-friendly environment in which we want folks to have the opportunity to learn how to shoot safely, whether that’s on the archery side or the firearm side.”

He added, “We’re here to help, and so we want folks to understand that it’s an opportunity for anyone that would like to learn how to shoot.”

Horst detailed the journey of the SSEC, going from an idea to a decade of operation.

“It was about a 15-year journey,” he said. “15 years of planning, but obviously 10 years being open, so it’s been a fun ride.  We have seen a lot of folks come through this facility, both from the firearm side and shooting, as well as on the archery side. One of the neatest things is we’ve been able to host local, regional, state and national tournaments.” 

This week, patrons can utilize discounts or participate in challenges to celebrate the anniversary.

Horst said the celebration is meant to honor all of those who have worked to make the SSEC a success.

“The intent of the week is to basically celebrate those that have supported us,” he said. “We want to show an appreciation for the folks that we have become members and utilize our programs and services, as well as the accomplishments of the staff, because we have had student staff over the years, as well as full-time staff that have contributed and left their mark with us.”

The week will even include an anniversary party, open to the public, which is set for 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 29.

The party will include cake and the unveiling of a new addition to the building.