Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the Crooked Road Clay Team?

The Crooked Road Clay Team is a competitive youth shotgun sports team serving Franklin County and surrounding areas. We provide safe, fun, and educational opportunities for students ages 11–20 to participate in trap, skeet, sporting clays, and 5-stand while building skills, confidence, and lifelong respect for the shooting sports.

❓ Who can join the team?

• Students ages 11–20 who demonstrate maturity, responsibility, and a commitment to safe firearm handling.

• Students must complete an approved firearm safety course prior to participating in any team activities.

• Athletes must be able to provide their own required equipment, including a compliant shotgun, ammunition, and all required safety gear.

❓ 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 in team dues.
Team dues only cover:

• Range fees

• Insurance

• Accounting/administrative fees

Ammunition is not included in team dues.
Athletes typically use 20–40 boxes per semester, depending on their shooting ability and participation in optional competitive events.

Additional costs may include:

• Team jersey

• Eye & hearing protection

We provide discount codes for gear and organize bulk ammunition orders to help reduce costs. Fundraising opportunities are also available but not required.

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❓ 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.