Clay Crushers Fundraiser Brings Community Together, Raises Over $5,000 for UOlivet Clay Target Team
ADA, Mich. — The sound of shotguns echoed through the woods at Kent County Conservation League on Saturday morning as clays burst into orange dust overhead. Laughter, cheers, and plenty of competitive spirit filled the air as The University of Olivet clay target team welcomed a packed field of shooters to its annual UOlivet Clay Crusher Fundraiser.
From the moment the first squads stepped onto the course, it was clear the day was going to be special. More than just a sporting clays shoot, the event felt like a celebration of community. Families gathered along the paths, old friends caught up between stations, and young athletes proudly represented their university team.
The main attraction was the 100-target sporting clays event, which drew a full roster of shooters from across the region. Each squad made its way through the winding course, testing their skills on everything from high crossers to tricky rabbit targets. The course was challenging, but spirits stayed high—especially when squads gathered back at the clubhouse to swap stories about the toughest (and easiest) birds of the day.
The action didn't stop there. On the 5-stand field, the fundraiser introduced a fast-paced flurry event, sending a rapid-fire stream of targets flying through the sky. Spectators cheered as shooters scrambled to keep up, crushing clays as fast as they could load. It was chaotic, exciting, and quickly became one of the highlights of the day.
Inside the clubhouse, a long table of raffle and door prizes kept the energy buzzing. From gear to gift baskets, nearly everyone left with something in hand, a reminder that this day was about fun as much as fundraising.
And fundraising it was. By the end of the day, the event had raised over $5,000 to support the Clay Target Team's upcoming season.
"This fundraiser was more than we could have hoped for," said Coach Ponch Wildman. "The turnout, the competition, and the generosity of our sponsors and community made it an incredible success! These funds will go directly toward giving our student-athletes the opportunity to train and compete at a high level."
Competition Highlights
Of course, no clay shoot would be complete without some bragging rights. A squad made up of UOlivet student-athletes Kaitlin Dyer, Matthew Brown, Abi Kruger and Dallas Goodrich took home top squad honors. In addition, Michael Fitzner claimed the Top Gun Title after an exciting shoot-off that drew a crowd of onlookers.
Community Support at the Core
Behind the success of the event was the strong support of sponsors, including Wayne Davis Quality Bedding, C-Comm Communications, Fitzner Farms, King Insurance, The Tru2Shooters Podcast, and TruMedia. Many individual supporters also stepped up, ensuring the team has the resources it needs to continue growing.
For the athletes, the day was about more than fundraising. "It felt like everyone was behind us," said junior athlete Kaitlin Dyer. "To see our community come out, shoot with us, and support what we're doing—it really motivates us for the season ahead!"
As the last clays were broken and the last prizes handed out, the fundraiser closed with the same energy it began: a mix of smiles, camaraderie, and pride in a sport that brings people together.
With momentum on their side, The University of Olivet Clay Target Team now looks ahead to the season, carrying with them the support of a community that believes in their mission.
