As the Season comes to an End

Posted On: 11-10-2024

For some, not all the shooting season has ended for 2024, and you await the 2025 season right around the corner.  What would be good as one waits is to stay focused and figure out ways to get better or have more fun in 2025.  Let’s list a few ideas:

1. First thing is to get your gun out and give it a thorough cleaning.  Get inside and out and make sure all parts are lubricated to ensure rust does not occur while the gun is in the case, closet or gun safe. 
2. Pull you choke tubes and make sure those threads are clean and make sure the choke tube is easy to remove and replace.  Use some thread grease to make sure.
3. Take a moment to read a little bit on shotgun shell loads as you prepare for your 2025 season.  While many of you buy in group quantities, it might be a good idea to make sure all are in agreement with the load.  If the squad is young, do you want to shoot 1 1/8 loads or would 1-ounce loads be better for all.
4. Have a team meeting.  Organize the team goals for 2025 and have a plan for the following:
   1. Shoots you will attend
   1. Practice schedules
   1. Travel costs
   1. Squad selection requirements
   1. Coach requirements and credentials
   1. Team leadership
   1. Recruiting
   1. Off season team meetings
5. Look at your overall equipment.  Do you need anything new?
6. Get an eye exam if possible – Team eye wear is available through Midway USA Foundation.
7. Explore off season shooting opportunities
8. Consider a trip to your local club and make sure they have a pattern board you can use in 2025.
9. How about a fund raiser for your Midway USA Foundation Account.  If you do not have an account contact Midway.  As well be sure you have an idea of your account balance.
10. Apply to your Midway USA Foundation account as you may have funds you can access.  The time frame is in April 15 – June 15 and October 15 – December 15of each year.
11. Explore your community for sponsors.  Note in most cases Midway USA Foundation will match all grants to your account.  This is a huge incentive for those making donations.
12. Team shirts are a great way to show off your team and sponsors.  Midway USA Foundation also provides access to Battle Gear and will donate 10% back to your account for purchases.
13. Consider the options for ear protection.  There are so many new products on the market and once again Midway USA Foundation can help you. 
14. As a team what are the rules the team will observe during the season?
15. Explore what parental support you have beyond what is already in place.  Who can travel, who might prepare food at shoots and how can parents help the team.
16. During the off season get some exercise.  Walk, run lift weights and make sure you consider the number of times you have to lift your 7.5-pound gun.  Grab some hand weights and do lifts.
17. Gun mounts – with parental approval have you gun out and do gun mounts in front of a mirror.  Do this until you can do 100 at least three times a week.
18. Outside coaching – consider having someone come and provide some outside coaching.  This is especially helpful if your coach is new.
19. Over the winter and spring get prepared for your Missouri A+ Program possibilities.  Keep your grades up!
20. Finally, never too early to think about making contact with schools to see about scholarships, and team shooting opportunities.

I hope you take a minute to read all of these and discuss them with your team, coaches and parents.  The new season will be here soon.  Until then be safe.

David Vaught, Ph.D.

Executive Director