Finally, after the end to 2014 what was a crazy year, I have time to give you guys a year in review. At the ripe old age of 24 years old, I have really started to notice things happening to me that others only think about doing. I have been venturing out on my own, making big decisions and filling the voids in my life this last year. Through one year, I can tell that life for me has changed, in a very good way.
Starting off the year I joined the Infantry in the Iowa Army National Guard. I was shipped off to Fort Benning for 4 months where I took part in basic training. Through some of the most grueling challenges of my life it made me realize that I took advantage of the little things. I took advantage of having my family so close to me, having friends that support me, and even having the capability of doing all the things I love. Being stripped of nearly everything you’ve ever had makes your mind become one powerful tool. It allows you to find out what the most important things are to you.
After training I got to come home for about a month before having to leave to Wisconsin for more training. This short amount of time was something very unforgettable. Getting to see everyone again was a feeling second to none. Within this time frame I was able to start taking part of Victory Outdoors. I was also able to finally conduct posts of my outdoor adventures, and start making my life in the outdoor industry closer to a reality.
Further down the calendar I moved into an apartment and transitioned into bills. That’s all I need to say about that! But then things took an amazing turn. Deer season was amazing to me this year. Being able to take part on a prostaff with Victory Outdoors gave me more of a drive to get out there on days I might have slept in. This sounds like I’m doing it for free gear, but that’s where you would be wrong. I now am out to gather amazing footage for way more than myself. Footage to better our sponsors revenue, footage to prove to viewers what products actually work in the field, and to prove that when it comes to the outdoors, I take it serious and I love what I do.
After taking a trophy with the bow and with the camera (Zac Geiths buck) I got more credit in the industry than I thought possible. All the views and comments from them made me realize that things are finally happening. As a kid I always wanted to be that guy taking the big buck in TV, but as I grew older I realized its more about spreading knowledge and hope to others. I get asked by people I have never met about certain gear, or certain hunting tips. But the part that I love the most, is now people who I have always looked up to, are looking at me as an equal and an accomplished hunter. That means a lot to me. This dream I once had is slowly becoming a reality, and I owe it all to God, family, friends and Victory Outdoors.
