Answering the original question, I am always excited when someone gets a kill. That is why we are out there. We may all have a different level on our goals but bottom line we are hunting deer. It doesn't matter if it is booner or a spike for a rookie or a vet I love to celebrate with the successful hunter. Envy and jealousy or the feeling that someone has not earned it can strain hunting friendships and friendship in general.

I even struggle with the term slob hunter or someone that only goes say 5 or six times a season. If someone is in the woods hunting legally and ethically I am in their corner. Lady luck has a way of evening things out if you don't do your homework you will not consistantly have success, but when you do who am I to say you did not do it right.If they truely enjoy the experience it will strengthen their desire to set high goals and work to achieve them. I will climb down off my little soap box now. For all the "rooks" and "newbies" kill a big one next year, send me a pic and I will give you a big atta boy.

P.S. I agree location does play a major role in rookie success.