FAQs

Below are a few answers to our most frequently asked questions.

Is there a signup fee? What does that include?

Yes. The signup fee includes:

• Registration fee for the 3 major events

• Shirt(s), hat and vest

• Registration with the national governing body

What does the athlete need to provide?

• shotgun

• shells for practices and shoots 

The team has discounts available through participating organizations and often coordinates bulk orders when going to the local distributor. 

What type of gun should my athlete use?

A semiautomatic or an over and under double barrel break action 20 gauge or 12 gauge. A 12 gauge is preferred. This will also depend a lot on the body frame of the athlete. We are happy to do a gun fit check and make suggestions to professionals we trust.

What shotgun disciplines does the team compete in?

Our primary is sporting clays but we also have availability for trap, skeet, and 5 stand.

Are uniforms provided by the team?

The team will supply shirts, hats and a shooting vest which must be worn at all of the events that the team attends.

What if my child has never shot a gun before?

No experience is necessary to participate as we will have several lessons on safety and techniques. We require a hunter's safety course, an introduction to firearms course (i.e. SAFE gun training), and/or 1:1 time before engaging in group activities. We are happy to help coordinate and have a network of resources we are happy to share.

What are the ages?

We follow SCTP rules which are fifth grade through college with a recommended minimum age of eleven (hunters safety in Pennsylvania is twelve). Minimum age to shoot is based on the individual child’s physical maturity and ability to safely handle a firearm. Ability to participate is subject to a final discretion from coaches after gauging safety, maturity, and other factors. 

What is the time commitment?

Our very brief pre-season prep is in the fall and our core season runs in the spring. We know life can be busy so each season we poll the participating families to develop a practice schedule that suits their needs before solidifying for the season. The typical season is:

• September: try out day (recruitment event to identify new shooters and determine if this is a good fit both for athletes and the team)

• November:  season organizational meeting (expectations review, practice and competition schedule, fees, forms, etc.)

• February through early June: six mandatory practices (Centre County, PA) and up to three competitions (throughout Pennsylvania)

• Late June: State Championships (typically in Elysburg, PA)

• Second Saturday in July: National Championships (typically in Ohio)

What forms need completed? Is there a handbook?

The team follows all SCTP resources and forms. See https://mysctp.com/resources-and-forms/ for the latest versions of the Handbook and Best Practices Guide.

How do I become a coach or volunteer?

Individuals interested in serving as a coach or working directly with athletes must be at least 18 years old, register with the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF), complete a background check, and meet SCTP volunteer requirements. Coaches must also possess an approved coaching certification or be willing to obtain one. Most importantly, we are looking for positive role models who value safety, sportsmanship, teamwork, and youth development.

We will need parent volunteers to assist with events as they are run as well as fundraising to decrease parent costs for ammo and target fees. 

Is the team insured?

Our national affiliation with SCTP covers us through a liability policy. 

Why isn't the team school affiliated?

Once we have enough athletes we intend to approach a few schools to organize USA Clays national governing body affiliation and Pennsylvania State High School Clay Target League affiliations in addition to the Scholastic Clay Target Program.