SPENCER STEPHENS MAY HAVE ONLY BEEN A PART of the Golden Valley Trap Team for one shortened season, but the Fresno State-bound agricultural aficionado gives the League his full endorsement. “The USA Clay Target League is a great time investment for kids for multiple
reasons,” the El Nido, California native said. “It teaches discipline, respect, and accountability. Not only does it teach many things, but it also creates great friendships and memories that will be cherished forever.”
PullUSA: What will you be studying at Fresno State?
Spencer Stephens: I will be double majoring in agricultural business and
mechanical engineering. In doing so I plan to secure a title as an agricultural engineer. I also plan to join the Fresno State Trap Team. I have full intentions of taking my newborn passion to the next level.
PullUSA: What do you like most about the League?
Stephens: My teammates were challenging and encouraging, and my mentors and coaches were astounding from the support to the skill level of coaching. I will benefit for many years to come because of them.
PullUSA: Who taught you how to shoot?
Stephens: I was first taught to shoot trap by my father when I was about 9 years old to practice dove hunting. However, I did not fall in love with the sport until very recently. When the opportunity arose to shoot trap competitively I was hesitant until I realized how fun it would be. Since then I have really pushed myself to be better by practicing four to six times per week.
PullUSA: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received on the line?
Stephens: Let my mind go blank. “When you step into these cement rows, it’s just you and the bird; nothing else matters,” Coach Mike Mazzucchi said. I found this extremely useful because it’s very easy to overthink or be upset about a loss. All that does is create a mental block and fundamentals go out the window.
PullUSA: What other activities do you participate in?
Stephens: Riding dirtbikes, showing swine competitively, and working. I have won several championships for racing motocross and several awards for environmental conservation. Aside from that I am highly involved in FFA and have been able to claim multiple high stakes awards.
