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Meet The Coaches
Betsy Thompson
Head Coach
With 20 years of coaching experience, Betsy brings boundless energy and enthusiasm to every practice, celebrating both individual and team achievements, both on and off the field. Her positive attitude fosters a supportive environment where students feel motivated and uplifted. Each week, she finds joy in watching her students grow—not only through guidance from their coaches but also through the friendships they build along the way.
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Betsy’s favorite firearm is the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon (for now, at least—ask her next week!). What she loves most about the Clay Team is seeing the kids develop their skills and form lasting friendships that wouldn't have been possible without the team. She loves witnessing them encourage and push each other week after week.
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Her advice for anyone interested in joining? “Reach out to the coaches and come check out a practice. You don’t have to be a seasoned shooter to join. We have all levels, from beginners who are taking their first shot to experienced shooters. We welcome anyone with an interest to come see what we’re all about!”
Mark Thompson
Assistant Coach
With over 22 years of shooting experience, Mark is a seasoned coach who brings invaluable knowledge to the team. As an avid hunter and skilled marksman, he is passionate about sharing his expertise with shooters of all levels.
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Mark's favorite firearm is the 6.5 Creedmoor Chassis Rifle, a tool he values for its accuracy and performance. What he enjoys most about the Clay Team is watching the kids improve and grow their skills.
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His best piece of advice for anyone considering joining the team? "Don’t forget to have fun!" Mark fosters a positive and encouraging atmosphere at every practice, reminding students to believe in themselves and never give up. His upbeat attitude sets the tone for success both in practice and competition.
Mike Arrington
Assistant Coach
Mike Arrington has been a dedicated figure in the clay target sport for over 20 years. A seasoned shooter with a Beretta DT-11, Mike brings a deep well of experience, skill, and passion to the range.
What truly sets Mike apart is his commitment to youth shooters. He takes pride in sharing his knowledge, helping young athletes learn the fundamentals, grow in confidence, and most importantly—have fun. His approach goes beyond technique; he emphasizes discipline, sportsmanship, and the value of hard work.
Mike often says, “The magic you’re looking for in this sport comes from the work and dedication you put into it.” And he leads by example every step of the way.
Jeremy Purvis
Assistant Coach/Range Safety Officer
With over 20 years of shooting experience, Jeremy Purvis brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for firearms to his role as Assistant Coach and Range Safety Officer at CRCT. His journey with shooting began at a young age with his favorite firearm, the Steven's Bolt Action .22, the first gun he ever shot as a kid.
Jeremy’s favorite part of working with the Clay Team is seeing young shooters develop a love for the sport, just like he has. For anyone considering joining, his best piece of advice would be, “The challenge of accuracy never ends, and it’s a thrilling, though sometimes costly, passion you’ll never forget!”
Mike Healy
Assistant Coach
Mike Healy brings a lifetime of shooting experience to the CRCT coaching team. Having started hunting and hobby shooting—both clays and riflery—at the age of 10, Mike has developed a strong passion for the shooting sports over the years.
His go-to firearm is the Stoeger M3500, and his favorite part of being involved with the Clay Team is simple: it’s a lot of fun!
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As a coach, Mike focuses on safety, enjoyment, and skill development. His advice to anyone thinking about joining the team? “If you're staying safe and enjoying the sport... you're doing it right.” With Mike’s guidance, athletes can expect a supportive, fun, and fundamentals-focused environment.