Rooney's dedication paid off when she won a silver medal in trap at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. She also claimed gold at the 2016 World Cup Final in Rome, Italy. These achievements marked her as the first shooter from New Zealand to win a medal in trap at the Olympic Games.

Coaching and Training

Since 2013, Rooney has been coached by Andrea Miotto from Italy. She has spent considerable time training in Italy, which she found challenging due to language barriers and isolation. Despite these difficulties, she continued to train rigorously.

Switching Techniques

Initially using a 'high gun' method, Rooney switched to a 'low gun' technique in 2017. The change was driven by discomfort with the former style, especially when targets flew unpredictably. The transition took time, but by 2019 she felt more comfortable and confident with the new method.

Home Range

In 2018, Rooney and her father Gary opened a shooting facility at the Timaru Clay Target Club. This initiative aimed to provide better training opportunities locally and encourage more people in South Canterbury to get involved in shooting sports.

Awards and Recognition

Rooney's excellence has been recognised multiple times. She was named Sportsperson of the Year at the South Canterbury Sports Awards in both 2010 and 2017. Her family has also been deeply involved in shooting sports, with her brothers being competitive shooters and her father representing New Zealand.

Further Education

Balancing her sports career with academics, Rooney studied accounting at Canterbury University. In 2019, she began studying marketing at the Open Polytechnic in New Zealand. This pursuit of education highlights her commitment to personal growth alongside her athletic career.

Personal Life

Known by the nickname "Nat," Rooney enjoys spending time with friends when not training or competing. Her parents and brother Sam have been significant influences in her career, providing support and inspiration.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Rooney aims to win gold at future Olympic Games. Her journey reflects dedication, resilience, and a continuous drive for excellence in both sports and personal development.