Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the Crooked Road Clay Team?

The Crooked Road Clay Team is a competitive homeschool clay target team affiliated with the USA Homeschool Clay Target League, a nonprofit national organization dedicated to safe, fun, and educational participation in trap, skeet, sporting clays, and 5-stand shooting sports.

❓ Who can join the team?

• Students must be homeschoolers with proof of Intent to Homeschool from their local school board.

• Students must complete an approved firearm safety course prior to participation.

• Students must be able to supply their own required equipment (see below).

❓ What safety certifications are accepted?

Each athlete must complete one of the following prior to the first practice:

• SAFE Certification – A one-time $25 firearm safety course created by the League.

• VA DWR Hunter Education Course – ~$30; required for students 12+ years old

  • Online and in-person options available

  • Visit the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website for more details.

❓ What equipment is required?

Each athlete must have the following:

• 12 or 20 gauge shotgun (one per athlete)

• Minimum 3 boxes of factory-loaded shotgun shells per week (~15 per semester)

• Shotgun case & cleaning kit

• Hearing protection (NRR 27dB+ and designed for gun sports)

• Eye protection (designed for shooting; frameless preferred)

• Team jersey (required during competitions)

• Closed-toe shoes with backs (tennis shoes or boots)

• Appropriate attire (see below)

❓ Are there rules for the shotgun used?

Yes. Shotguns must meet League standards:

• Must be smooth-bore, 12 or 20 gauge

• Barrel must be 24” or longer

• Not allowed:

  • Tactical or home-defense models

  • Pistol grips without stocks

  • Detachable magazines

  • Slings, release triggers, magnifying optics, or light-emitting attachments

  • Firearms modified during the same round

❓ What are the hearing protection requirements?

• Must be specifically designed for shooting sports

• Must have an NRR of 27dB or higher

• In-ear protection is preferred (earmuffs may interfere with shooting form)

• Devices that allow music are allowed only if range commands remain clearly audible

• Commercial earbuds or Bluetooth headphones are not permitted

Parents and spectators should bring hearing protection to all practices and events.

❓ What kind of eye protection is required?

• Must be designed specifically for shooting sports

• Frameless styles are recommended for maximum field of view

• Prescription glasses may be used if lenses are polycarbonate or plastic

• All students, coaches, and spectators must wear eye protection on the range

❓ What is the team dress code?

Required:

• Team jersey (for competitions)

• Closed-toe shoes with backs (e.g., boots or tennis shoes)

• Modest, athletic-style pants or shorts

Prohibited:

• Tank tops, crop tops, halters

• Short shorts or sagging pants

• Flip-flops, sandals, or any open-toe shoes

• Clothing referencing alcohol, drugs, tobacco, profanity, or sex

❓ How much does it cost to join?

Expect to spend $300–$400 per student, per semester, which may include:

• League & range registration fees

• Ammunition (approx. 15 boxes per season)

• Firearm safety course

• Team jersey

• Eye & hearing protection

• Travel to optional competitions

• Shotgun case and cleaning kit

We provide discount codes for gear and place bulk ammo orders to reduce costs. Fundraising opportunities are also available.

❓ How do I get started or learn more?

If you're interested in joining or have additional questions, please reach out to us directly. We’d love to connect and share more about the season, tryouts, and upcoming events.