Learn about slingshot tournaments in our latest Ask SimpleShot episode!

Starting a Slingshot Tournament in Your Area: Insights from Bill Steiner

In the latest season of”Ask SimpleShot, we ventured into the community to find out more about starting a slingshot tournament. Our guest, Bill Steiner, often referred to as the “Godfather of the East Coast Slingshot Tournament,” shared some valuable insights.

Finding Enthusiasts and Setting Up the Tournament

If you’re passionate about shooting slingshots and are wondering how to gather like-minded individuals for a tournament, Steiner recommends tapping into local sports associations and shooting clubs. These places might already have enthusiasts willing to partake in or learn about slingshot tournaments. In today’s digital age, platforms like Facebook can also be handy to connect with local people interested in the sport. While finding participants locally can be challenging, persistence pays off.

Tackling Liability Concerns

One of the common concerns potential organizers have is the issue of liability. Bill Steiner’s solution was to integrate the East Coast Slingshot Tournament under the East Huntingdon Sportsmen’s Association. By doing so, the event came under the protective umbrella of the Sportsman’s Club, alleviating individual liability concerns. Steiner emphasized that all participants sign a waiver before participating. For those considering starting a tournament, collaborating with a Sportsman’s Club or a similar organization might be a solution to liability issues and a way to introduce more people to the sport.

Broadening the Scope

Recently, the East Huntington Sportsman’s Association organized a “Sportsman’s Olympics” – a series of events that included rifle shooting, archery, and, interestingly, a slingshot booth. This event introduced around 25 people to slingshots in just one day. So, a potential strategy for promoting slingshots could be by integrating it into broader shooting or sporting events.

Determining the Correct Draw Length

One of the questions from our audience, Joan from Chesapeake, Virginia, was about determining the right draw length for slingshots. Bill’s advice is rooted in personal experience and feel. He prefers the “half butter” (jokingly referred to as margarine) technique. The draw length might vary depending on the distance of the shot. For instance, longer shots might require a tighter pull. Steiner emphasized that it’s all about the feel – every slingshot, band set, and pouch is different. The key is to practice and find what feels right.

In conclusion, the world of slingshots is filled with enthusiasm and fun, as evident from Bill Steiner’s experiences. Whether you’re an old hand at it or a newbie, the most crucial aspect is to enjoy the process and the community around it.