It’s almost Summer

Posted On: 04-26-2022

The spring semester has passed by quickly and for seniors their final shoot of the year is likely almost complete.  With that comes the idea that maybe your thoughts are now turning to your next adventure in life in the form of college and perhaps collegiate shooting. 

There are numerous opportunities out there and what we have been hearing and seeing is a growth in outdoor sports including the shooting sports.  With those new program comes recruiting for shooters as they grow so don’t hesitate to ask around.  One of the newest is at William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri.  They have recently hired and new faculty/coach to start their program. 

Other programs you can also check into are frequently at our Fall Classic so make sure to introduce yourself to coaches.  Our website has a list of schools and coaches that you can contact with your interest in continuing competitive shooting.  

So how do you make yourself known to coaches and schools?  First off, keep records of your shoots and scores, note the number of events in which you participated and placements and awards associated with those shoots.  At some point begin to assemble a list of people you can use as references.  Consider teachers, school administrators and coaches.  Ask them to write you a letter you can use to submit to schools.  Obviously, grades and academics make an impact so that too will need to be in your application packet that will be sent to the collegiate coach.  This is not to be confused with university admissions, but rather is intended to create a direct line of communication to a coach that can help you through the admission process. 

Some collegiate programs are club sports and not designated as perhaps NCAA, NAIA or other collegiate sport commissions so they may or may not have a coach, but rather a contact person that will help you get to know your future team mates at a school you have chosen but will shot as a extra-curricular activity.  Those too are worth exploring. 

We at MYSSA hope you do consider competitive shooting at the collegiate level.  You will not be disappointed at the quality of shooters and the fun that lies ahead.

David R. Vaught, Ph.D

Executive Director