Shotgun sports are flourishing across universities and colleges in the U.S., providing students with avenues for competitive excellence, personal growth, and scholarships. These programs cover a range of disciplines, including trap, skeet, sporting clays, five-stand, and bunker trap, offering both recreational opportunities and high-level competition. Below is an in-depth exploration of ten institutions excelling in shotgun sports, each contributing uniquely to the rise of this sport at the collegiate level.
Lindenwood University is renowned as a national powerhouse in collegiate shotgun sports. With numerous championships to its name, Lindenwood’s team has achieved consistent success in the American Trap, skeet, and sporting clays disciplines. The team trains rigorously with access to state-of-the-art facilities and high-level coaching, preparing student-athletes for SCTP (Scholastic Clay Target Program) and ACUI (Association of College Unions International) competitions.
Lindenwood’s commitment to student development extends beyond the range. Athletes benefit from scholarship opportunities that make it possible to balance academic work with a busy competitive schedule. The team’s success at national tournaments highlights their focus on both technical skill and sportsmanship. Lindenwood is often a top contender at the SCTP College Nationals, regularly securing podium finishes in multiple events, making it one of the most competitive programs in the country.
For additional program information, click HERE.
Located in Kerrville, Texas, Schreiner University’s shotgun sports program offers students an immersive athletic experience. The university competes in various events, including American trap, skeet, sporting clays, and international disciplines such as bunker trap. Schreiner’s athletes take advantage of their proximity to the National Shooting Complex in San Antonio, which provides unparalleled training and competition opportunities
Schreiner integrates its shooting sports program within the athletics department, offering scholarships to attract top talent. The university also funds travel, lodging, and other expenses for competitions, allowing students to focus on excelling athletically and academically. Schreiner’s program has quickly gained recognition for producing skilled shooters and fostering a close-knit team environment that emphasizes leadership and community engagement.
For additional program information, click HERE.
Hillsdale College prides itself on fostering both academic and athletic excellence, and its shotgun sports program reflects that dual focus. Hillsdale’s athletes regularly compete in ACUI and SCTP events, excelling in disciplines such as trap, skeet, and sporting clays. The team is known for producing well-rounded individuals who not only succeed in competitions but also become leaders on and off campus
The college offers students access to elite training facilities, where athletes hone their skills under the guidance of experienced coaches. Hillsdale places a strong emphasis on personal responsibility and teamwork, values that are reflected in the program’s consistent success in national competitions. Hillsdale also offers scholarships, making it an attractive option for student-athletes seeking a balance of academic rigor and athletic excellence.
For additional program information click HERE.
The Texas A&M Shotgun Sports Team is a competitive collegiate organization that represents Texas A&M University in various clay target shooting disciplines, including trap, skeet, and sporting clays. Composed of dedicated student-athletes, the team competes in national and regional events, often excelling in competitions hosted by the Association of College Unions International (ACUI) and other major shooting sports organizations.
The team fosters a strong sense of community and sportsmanship while promoting safe and responsible firearm handling. With a focus on skill development, strategy, and teamwork, the Texas A&M Shotgun Sports Team provides opportunities for both experienced shooters and newcomers to enhance their proficiency in shotgun sports. Through rigorous training and participation in events, members build lifelong friendships and contribute to the university’s legacy of excellence in collegiate shooting sports.
For additional program information click HERE.
NCTA offers a growing shotgun sports program that caters to both competitive and recreational shooters. The team trains in trap, skeet, and sporting clays, with weekly practices designed to build skill and camaraderie among teammates. NCTA participates in regional competitions, giving students the chance to test their skills against other college teams
The program places a strong emphasis on community involvement, hosting fundraising events and outreach activities that connect students with the local community. The team fosters a supportive environment where athletes can thrive both on the range and in the classroom, preparing them for future success in competitive shooting and beyond.
For additional program information, click HERE.
Hawkeye Community College has built one of the most successful shotgun sports programs in the Midwest. The college competes in multiple disciplines, including 5-stand, sporting clays, and bunker trap. Known for its success at SCTP national championships, Hawkeye offers scholarships and provides comprehensive support to its athletes, covering costs such as ammunition, travel, and lodging
The college’s focus on both academic achievement and athletic performance makes it a well-rounded program. Athletes receive guidance from coaches who emphasize personal growth and teamwork, helping students succeed both on the field and in their academic pursuits. Hawkeye’s program exemplifies the community spirit and dedication that define collegiate shotgun sports.
For additional program information, click HERE.
Fort Hays State University is recognized for its achievements in skeet and trap shooting. The team frequently places at the top in SCTP events, with recent performances earning them national recognition. Fort Hays emphasizes both competitive excellence and character development, fostering a culture of sportsmanship and discipline among its athletes
The university offers students access to experienced coaching and top-tier facilities, ensuring they are well-prepared for both regional and national competitions. Fort Hays’ program attracts student-athletes who are looking for a supportive environment to develop their shooting skills while pursuing academic success.
For additional program information, click HERE.
Jacksonville University has rapidly emerged as a competitive force in collegiate shotgun sports. The team competes across several disciplines, including trap, skeet, and sporting clays. Known for setting records in sporting clays at SCTP nationals, Jacksonville’s athletes are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of performance
The program offers students a dynamic and challenging environment, with coaching that emphasizes both technical proficiency and mental resilience. Jacksonville’s success at national events reflects the team’s commitment to excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
For additional program information, click HERE.
The University of the Ozarks has made a name for itself with strong performances in bunker trap and sporting clays. The team consistently places well at SCTP events, showcasing the university’s commitment to competitive shooting. The program provides students with opportunities to compete at the highest levels while fostering a sense of community and personal growth.
For additional program information, click HERE.
Emmanuel College offers a comprehensive clay target shooting program that has found success in five-stand and trap events. The program emphasizes personal development, academic achievement, and athletic excellence, creating a supportive environment for student-athletes to thrive
For additional program information, click HERE.
William Penn University’s shotgun sports program is known for its competitive spirit and success across multiple disciplines. The team competes in SCTP and ACUI events, earning recognition for its performances in trap and sporting clays. The program provides students with the resources they need to succeed, including scholarships, coaching, and access to top-tier facilities
For additional program information, click HERE.
Shotgun sports are becoming an integral part of collegiate athletics, with schools across the U.S. investing in programs that combine competition, academic achievement, and personal development. Institutions like Lindenwood, Schreiner, and Hillsdale are setting the standard, while emerging programs at universities like Jacksonville and Fort Hays continue to make their mark. With support from organizations like SCTP and ACUI, collegiate shotgun sports will continue to grow, providing student-athletes with opportunities to excel both on and off the range.
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