Some coaches encourage their student-athletes to shoot for the stars.

Sean Grundon is more down to earth, content when his team is simply on target.

The Siuslaw Middle School mathematics teacher is starting his second year — and third season — heading the Siuslaw Oregon Clay Target League team for grades 6 though 12.

"Spring season is upon us, and I am starting the recruiting process this week, letting kids know about the program," Grundon said.

Grundon organized the first group of shooters for last spring's season, which was followed by a separate fall season.

"This season we are going to start fundraising for range and equipment improvement," Grundon said. "We need our own storage container and some new equipment."

The Siuslaw shooting program is not an Oregon School Activities Association sport, but is does have the sponsorship of the Siuslaw School District, happy to support an outdoor activity.

"Last year the community was extremely supportive, and I hope to see that again this season," Grundon said.

"Safety is still going to be the number one priority, but I can foresee a couple kids competing in state this year."

Several athletes have made the sport a year-round commitment.

"I have several returning athletes who have really improved," Grundon said. "Terry (Elliott), Hunter (Pimlott), Wade (Richmond) and Morgan (Delle) have been practicing throughout the season, and I am excited to see how they do this year."

Team and student-athlete registration officially opens Feb. 1 and closes March 21.

The first week of spring practice begins March 27 and the first week of competition begins April 17.

The Siuslaw Rod and Gun Club is home to the Vikings, who will be joined this season by a team from Reedsport.

"Reedsport is starting up a team, and they may be practicing with us until they can establish a range in Reedsport," Grundon said.

The Oregon State High School Clay Target League offers competition leading to shots at national championships.

In 2020-21, there were 36,690 participants nationwide on 1,310 teams in 34 states.

For more information on the Oregon association, go to orclaytarget.com.