Targeting a New Future

Growing up, Messer wasn’t exposed to firearms, her mother having reservations about guns due to negative past experiences. However, her story is not just about picking up a firearm for the first time but about how that moment transformed her life and reshaped her family’s perspective.

Messer’s first introduction to firearms came at a local National Wild Turkey Federation event. It was at this event where her experience made a lasting impact, and her journey in shooting sports began. Her first experience holding a firearm felt strange at first, but Messer didn’t take long to realize she had found something special.

 “My thoughts about guns were pretty neutral,” Messer said. “I didn’t really grow up around them, but I’m so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone to try something new. The first time I held a gun, it felt weird, but I thought, ‘This is something I could get used to.’ From then on, I loved every bit of it.”

Although her own curiosity was piqued, she faced the challenge of addressing her mother’s concerns.

“I knew talking to my mom about firearms wouldn’t be easy, but her reaction surprised me,” Messer said. “She trusted my coaches because they were aware of her concerns and made sure I was safe.”

Messer joined her high school shooting team, and with the guidance of her coaches —Michael Ford, Jason Watkins and Jeff Holcombe— her skill and confidence grew. As she progressed, her mother’s perspective began to change, and she soon found joy in watching her daughter thrive in a sport she had never imagined being a part of their lives.

The pivotal moment in Messer’s journey came when her talent caught the attention of Steve Long, coach of The University of Montevallo's shooting sports team, while competing at the Red Eagle Skeet and Trap Club in Childersburg, Alabama.

"I was shooting at Red Eagle, and coach Long noticed me,” Messer said. “Afterward, we talked about The Outdoor Scholars Program and the shooting sports team. Although I was only a junior at the time, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue."

Messer’s hard work and dedication paid off, earning a spot on the NWTF-sponsored University of Montevallo shooting sports team. The opportunity also led to her receiving the Outdoor Scholars Program scholarship, allowing Messer to attend college without the burden of financial stress. Now studying business management, she enjoys the college experience while creating lifelong memories with her teammates.

“All of the moments that I have with my shooting team are very memorable to me,” Messer said. “They are family.”

Through shooting sports, Marilyn discovered a newfound passion for the outdoors — a world she hadn’t fully embraced before. Her boyfriend, Davian Smith, and his family played a significant role in introducing her to hunting, further deepening her connection to outdoor pursuits.

“I never thought I’d be doing anything related to the outdoors, but now I love it,” Messer said. “I adore being with nature and being in the outdoors and learning more about everything.”

For Messer, the journey is about more than just shooting — it’s been a path of personal growth.

“Some of my biggest challenges were stepping out and asking for help, but that’s where I’ve learned the most,” Messer said. “Now I’ve become more confident and comfortable in my skills.”

Today, Messer is dedicated to helping others discover shooting sports and the outdoors, a role that has fueled her own development even further.

“Bringing people in and talk about gun safety and the outdoors has been amazing,” Messer said. “It’s definitely helped me develop my skills as a competitive shooter.”

Marilyn’s story exemplifies the NWTF’s vision of “A nation united by the life-changing power of the outdoors.” For her, the outdoors has been a source of personal growth, new opportunities, lifelong connections, and has reshaped her future.

“My life has now changed, especially when it comes to firearms,” Messer said. “I can see myself — even when I graduate college — still shooting tournaments, being involved in the outdoors and getting even more into it every day.”

Messer’s story is one of stepping outside of her comfort zone, trusting the process and discovering new passions along the way. Her advice for others who may face similar challenges: “First, trust God. Then, believe in yourself. And lastly, trust the process.”