Shoot United is a Team Effort
News Briefs - Mar/Apr 2023
In the highly competitive world of youth-organized activities, thousands of athletes across the United States are turning to the shooting sports. At the high school level, the shooting sports are considered the fastest-growing activity, with an increase in teams, coaches, athletes, and events.
The SST Ravens, a youth shooting sports team based near Seattle, Washington, is a group of more than 20 youth athletes who consider the shooting sports a part of their daily lives.
Their story is captured in a newly released film, “Ink in the Sky,” presented by Shoot United, a shooting initiative launched by Winchester last year. The film provides a glimpse into the lives of the young men and women from the SST Ravens during their state tournament competition. More importantly, it captures the positive messages of the shooting sports. It’s time spent with friends and family, and it’s an exciting competitive environment with highly talented athletes.
“The shooting sports have taught me how to trust my instincts and focus on what I can control, like my breathing and the current target,” said Kamea Herrera, member of the SST Ravens. “Everyone on our team helps and encourages each other, including our parents and coaches. It’s cool to go to the shooting range with my dad and brother. I have been fortunate to meet so many people who share their love for the shooting sports while also improving my skills.”
Each year, more than 60 million adults participate in the shooting sports. It is one of the most popular recreational activities in the country, drawing millions of participants from metropolitan areas and with various degrees of firearms experience.
“The shooting sports are extremely inclusive, with more and more people with very diverse backgrounds joining the community,” said Jason Gilbertson, director of marketing for Shoot
United. “The SST Ravens is a team built with parents, coaches, and athletes coming together, working hard, and growing together as a team.” (Winchester.com)