In an era where traditional sports dominate headlines, the USA Clay Target League is quietly rewriting the rules. Its 2025 Annual Impact Report reveals a surge that’s impossible to ignore: 55,832 student-athletes, up 4.85% from last year and the League’s 31st consecutive record-breaking season.
With 160 sponsors, including the NRA Foundation at the Hero-Level tier, and a record-breaking roster of athletes, the USA Clay Target League isn’t just growing—it’s redefining what school sports can look like in America.
“Thirty-one consecutive record-breaking seasons is nothing short of a testament to the demand for safe, school-approved clay target shooting sports,” said John Nelson, USA Clay Target League President. “Including the 13,200 new students in 2025, more than 83,000 high school and college students have taken their first steps into clay target shooting sports since 2020.”
The League’s reach is staggering. This summer’s National Championship in Mason, Michigan, drew 265 high school teams and 1,835 individual competitors, while 29 state tournaments hosted 1,765 teams and 27,000 athletes. Minnesota’s State Trap Championship alone pulled in 8,088 student-athletes, making it one of the largest youth shooting events in the country.
And the growth isn’t confined to high schools. Fall league events featured 215 homeschool athletes and 28 teams, plus 758 athletes on 66 college squads. Lindenwood University remains a shotgun sports powerhouse with 70 athletes. “The team has become one big family to me,” said senior Matthew Keist. “Even with the team being so big, everyone knows everyone, which makes college life even more enjoyable with everyone on your side.”
The ripple effect is real: 37% of parents report increased hunting and shooting sports participation, and 81% of ranges see more non-youth activity thanks to USA Clay Target League teams. Another stat stands out—36% of clay target athletes don’t play any other school sport, making this a gateway for students who might otherwise miss out on team competition.
Behind the scenes, 11,300 coaches, safety officers and volunteers keep the USA Clay Target League running. “They are the heroes that make participation in the League a safe and fun activity for student-athletes,” Nelson said.
Safety remains the cornerstone. Since 2001, the League has reported zero injuries, and every athlete completes firearm safety certification before competing. To break down barriers, the League launched its New Team Initiative, offering free registration, gear and certification—a $400 value—to help schools start teams. Combined with its new SAFE and CLASS certification platform, the League is a solid source of firearm safety education.
Read the full 2025 USA Clay Target League Impact Report at this link.
